There’s nothing quite like the comfort and rich flavors of a Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe to brighten up your dinner table. This dish combines tender chicken chunks simmered in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce that’s perfectly spiced and buttery smooth. It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that comes together faster than you’d expect, making it a fantastic weeknight meal or a special treat when you want to impress without the fuss. The balance of spices, the creaminess from the yogurt and cream, and the warmth of garlic and butter create a dish that’s deeply satisfying and crave-worthy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients ready for this recipe is such a breeze. Each one is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and beautiful color, from the juicy chicken thighs to the aromatic spices and creamy elements. With these staples, your kitchen will soon be filled with an irresistible aroma that invites everyone to the table.
- 1 pound Chicken Thighs: Using thigh meat makes the chicken extra juicy and tender after cooking.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning, adjust to suit your taste preferences.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle garlic undertone; fresh minced garlic can intensify the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika: Provides a mild smokiness and beautiful color; smoked paprika can also be an exciting alternative.
- 1 teaspoon Curry Powder: Brings the signature spice blend necessary for authentic flavor—taste before using as blends vary.
- 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt: Adds tanginess and helps tenderize the chicken; full-fat yogurt or buttermilk are great alternatives.
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil: Ideal for browning chicken; replacing it with butter or ghee will deepen richness.
- 2 tablespoons Butter: Stirred in at the end for that silky, rich finish.
- 3 cloves Garlic: Fresh and minced to infuse the sauce with aromatic depth.
- 1 medium Onion: Diced to add sweetness and texture as the base of the sauce.
- 15 ounces Tomato Sauce: Provides the tangy base for the curry; canned crushed tomatoes work well too.
- 1 teaspoon Sugar: Optional but helpful to balance out tomato acidity if needed.
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat; freshly ground is always best for vibrant flavor.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: Creates that luscious creamy texture—coconut cream is a yummy dairy-free substitute.
- 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper: Provides a little kick but can be omitted or adjusted for milder tastes.
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala: A signature spice blend that rounds out the curry’s warmth—fresh is key for aroma.
- 2 tablespoons Parsley: Adds a fresh pop of color and herbaceous note; cilantro can also be delightful.
- 4 pieces Naan Bread: Perfect for mopping up the sauce, homemade or store-bought.
- 2 cups Steamed Rice: The ideal base for soaking up all those beautiful flavors; quinoa can be a nutritious alternative.
How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by tossing your bite-sized chicken thigh pieces in salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and the Greek yogurt. This simple marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also tenderizes it beautifully, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful. Let it rest if you have time, but even a short marination enhances the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. When hot, add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they’re golden brown on the outside but not overcooked inside. This searing locks in juices and creates a delicious crust that adds texture to your butter chicken.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Remove the chicken to a plate and in the same pan, add diced onions and fresh minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions soften and become translucent, releasing their natural sweetness and building the aromatic foundation of the sauce.
Step 4: Create the Sauce Base
Pour in the tomato sauce, stir in sugar, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using, then let this mixture simmer gently. This step allows the tomatoes to meld with the spices, creating a rich and flavorful curry base that’s integral to the dish.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the browned chicken to the pan, stirring well to coat every piece in the luscious sauce. Let everything simmer together on low heat, so the chicken fully absorbs those beautiful flavors.
Step 6: Finish with Cream and Butter
Lower the heat and gradually add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Finally, fold in the cold butter cubes—it’s this finishing touch that makes the sauce silky and indulgent. Sprinkle garam masala over the top and gently mix it in for that authentic aroma and warm spice complexity.
How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley or cilantro sprinkled over the top brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh herbal note that beautifully complements the creamy sauce. A little extra cracked black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice can also elevate the flavors right before serving.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines when paired with fluffy steamed rice or warm naan bread, both of which help you savor every bit of the buttery sauce. For something different, try serving it alongside a simple cucumber raita or a crunchy salad to cut through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve your butter chicken over a bed of fragrant saffron rice, and garnish with toasted almonds or pomegranate seeds for a delightful crunch and burst of color. Alternatively, layering it in warm wraps or using it as a filling for stuffed parathas can turn this traditional dish into an exciting handheld meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Butter chicken flavors actually deepen overnight, so storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days is ideal. Just make sure to cool it before storing to maintain the best texture and taste.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe longer, freezing is a great option. Place cooled butter chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will stay delicious for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent curdling of the cream. Stir occasionally to heat evenly, and if the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water or cream to bring it back to that perfect silky consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thigh for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken breast can be used, but since it’s leaner, be careful not to overcook it as it can dry out faster than thighs. Marinating well and cooking briefly should help keep it tender.
Is this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet?
You can easily make this butter chicken dairy-free by swapping the yogurt and heavy cream with coconut yogurt and coconut cream. Using ghee or a plant-based butter substitute instead of butter helps keep that rich texture.
How spicy is this butter chicken?
This recipe has a gentle heat thanks to the cayenne pepper, which you can adjust or omit based on your spice tolerance. The curry powder and garam masala add flavor without overwhelming heat.
Can I prepare parts of this dish in advance?
Yes! Marinating the chicken a few hours or even the day before lets the flavors penetrate deeply. You can also prepare the sauce ahead and just combine with cooked chicken when ready to serve.
What is the best way to reheat leftover butter chicken?
The stovetop method on low heat ensures the sauce stays creamy and smooth. Avoid microwaving directly as it might cause the cream to separate unless reheated in short bursts with stirring.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is truly a joy, from the first sizzle of the chicken to the final swirl of butter in the sauce. Its comforting richness, bright flavors, and straightforward steps make it a definite kitchen favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it out and enjoy sharing this delicious staple with your loved ones!
Print
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe combines tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce, flavored with aromatic spices and finished with butter and cream for a silky texture. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice and warm naan bread.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 pound Chicken Thighs (cut into bite-sized chunks)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika (Smoked paprika can add a different flavor profile)
- 1 teaspoon Curry Powder (Curry blends vary, so taste for potency)
- 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt (Use full-fat yogurt or buttermilk for similar results)
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Can use butter or ghee for more flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (Use cold butter added at the end for a silky finish)
- 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh, minced for aromatic flavor)
- 1 medium Onion (Diced for sweetness and texture)
- 15 ounces Tomato Sauce (Canned crushed tomatoes can be used)
- 1 teaspoon Sugar (Optional; adjust based on tomato sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Could substitute with freshly ground black pepper for more flavor)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (Coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
- 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Omit for milder flavor or adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala (Use fresh for best results)
- 2 tablespoons Parsley (Or cilantro for a different herb profile)
Accompaniments
- 4 pieces Naan Bread (Can use store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups Steamed Rice (Can replace with quinoa for an alternative grain)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well to coat all pieces evenly. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Add Tomato Sauce and Spices: Pour in the tomato sauce and stir in sugar, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and garam masala. Mix thoroughly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Finish with Cream and Butter: Stir in the heavy cream and cold butter, letting the butter melt into the sauce, creating a rich and silky texture. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the butter chicken. Serve hot with steamed rice and warm naan bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based yogurt.
- The marinating time can be extended to overnight for more tender and flavorful chicken.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the spiciness.
- Using smoked paprika adds a nice smoky depth to the flavor.
- Leftover butter chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
