Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon sweet paprika; ½ teaspoon curry powder; 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 tablespoons butter, divided; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups heavy cream; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 teaspoon garam masala; ½ teaspoon curry powder; ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional); Naan bread or steamed rice for serving

Delicious homemade butter chicken served in a bowl with rice.

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The moment you take your first bite of this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken, a warm wave of flavor washes over you. The luscious, velvety sauce clings to tender chicken, creating a comforting embrace that feels like a welcome hug from an old friend. You’ll find the perfect balance of spices—each one meticulously played in the background—taking the spotlight at just the right moment. As you savor each mouthful, hints of garlic and sweet notes from the sauce dance on your palate, while the rich creaminess invites you to indulge in just one more bite.

Picture this: golden brown chicken sizzling in a hot skillet, the aroma mingling with sautéed onions, creating a melody that beckons you closer. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary evening into something extraordinary. The beauty is not only in its taste but also in its simplicity. Within a mere thirty minutes, you can turn your kitchen into a warm, inviting space filled with beautiful cooking aromas, gathering family and friends around the table to share in this feast.

Why You’ll Love This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

This Butter Chicken is everything you crave on a weeknight—quick, effortless, and utterly delicious. Beyond its incredible flavor, you’ll fall in love with the benefits it brings. The recipe uses everyday ingredients that come together in astonishing harmony, leaving you with a rich, creamy sauce that wraps around perfectly cooked chicken.

Whether you’re hosting friends for a cozy dinner or simply looking to treat yourself, this dish shines on any occasion. You can easily bring the vibrant essence of Indian cuisine into your home. It serves as a beautiful canvas for creativity—add heat with cayenne pepper, or elevate with a sprinkle of garam masala. The allure of Homemade Butter Chicken lies in its enticing taste and an uncomplicated process that even kitchen novices can master.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Embarking on your cooking journey requires a few essential tools to ensure that every step sails smoothly.

Large Skillet: This versatile pan handles both sautéing the aromatics and simmering the sauce seamlessly, making it your go-to for one-pan meals.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Use this to stir and combine flavors, ensuring no bit of deliciousness clings to the bottom.
Mixing Bowls: These help in marinating the chicken efficiently and keep your workspace organized.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements make a world of difference in achieving the perfect balance of flavors.

Preparation is key to a delightful cooking experience. Start by marinating the chicken in a blend of spices and Greek yogurt, which not only infuses flavors but also tenderizes the meat. Let it soak while you prep the other ingredients—the more time it sits, the deeper the flavors.

Ingredients for Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Gather these simple yet essential ingredients that work in tandem to create the magic that is Butter Chicken:

1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
½ teaspoon curry powder
1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (adds creaminess; substitute with sour cream if preferred)
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons butter, divided
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium onion, diced
1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity; adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups heavy cream (for that luxurious creaminess)
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1 teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon curry powder (for additional flavor)
¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Naan bread or Steamed rice for serving

Each ingredient plays a vital role. The chicken thighs create a juicy, tender protein that contrasts beautifully with the sauce. The spices, ranging from sweet paprika to aromatic garam masala, create an engaging flavor profile that exhilarates your taste buds. Don’t hesitate to experiment! Swap the chicken for chickpeas for a vegetarian twist or add more cayenne if you adore heat.

How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Embarking on this culinary adventure is simple with these clear, step-by-step instructions:

Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken chunks with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well to coat all the pieces, cover, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté until fragrant and the onions become translucent—about 3–5 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of curry powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken and the flavors to fuse together for about 5 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: In a separate pan, cook the marinated chicken over medium heat until browned and fully cooked—usually about 7-10 minutes. Ensure each piece gets nicely caramelized for maximum flavor.
Combine & Finish: Add the cooked chicken into the rich, velvety sauce. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, allowing it to melt and enrich the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to absorb all those gorgeous flavors.
Garnish & Serve: Once ready, garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve the Butter Chicken hot with warm naan bread or steamed rice, letting everyone soak up that irresistible sauce.

Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips

Make-ahead Tips: Prepare the chicken marinade the night before for a flavor-packed dish, allowing the chicken to soak in all the goodness overnight.
Cooking Alternatives: For those who prefer kitchen gadgets, try using an air fryer for the chicken, which can achieve that golden crispness without frying.
Customization Ideas: Add extra vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition, or sprinkle with roasted cashews for a delightful crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking an exquisite Butter Chicken is straightforward, but a few common mistakes can spoil your culinary masterpiece:

Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure you don’t overdo it; soggy chicken ruins the experience! Keep an eye on the cooking time.
Neglecting the Marinade: Rushing past marination skips the depth of flavor. A little patience goes a long way in achieving tender, tasty chicken.
Under-seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning according to your preference to reach that ideal balance of flavors.

What to Serve With Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing your Butter Chicken with:

Naan Bread: Soft, pillowy naan serves as the perfect vessel for scooping up rich sauce.
Steamed Rice: Allow the creamy sauce to drape over fluffy rice, creating a delightful combination.
Roasted Vegetables: Add a seasonal crunch with roasted or sautéed vegetables on the side.
Raita: Cool cucumber yogurt sauce balances the spice with refreshing creaminess.
Salad: A side of light and zesty cucumber-tomato salad can brighten up the plate.
Pickled Onions: Add a slight tang for a delightful contrast to the creamy dish.
Chutneys: Experiment with different chutneys to introduce layers of flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once the magic has taken place and your Butter Chicken graces the table, leftovers can comfortably reside in your fridge. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer-lasting delight, you can freeze individual portions. Reheat gently in a pot over low heat, stirring often, or microwave in intervals until hot.

Estimated Nutrition Information

Approximate values per serving:

Calories: 550
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 40g
Fiber: 2g

These numbers can vary based on specific ingredient choices and portion sizes.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Certainly! Chicken breast works well, but be mindful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs.

Is Butter Chicken always spicy?

It can be! Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your heat level preference. Start with a small amount, and you can always add more later.

Can I make Butter Chicken vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or paneer for a fabulous vegetarian alternative.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it longer to evaporate some of the liquid. Alternatively, a gentle splash of cornstarch mixed with water can help achieve the desired consistency.

What type of tomatoes should I use?

A standard canned tomato sauce works best for a smooth texture. If you prefer a homemade touch, blended tomatoes can be used as well.

Conclusion

After you take that initial taste of your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken, you’ll understand why this dish captures hearts and bellies alike. With its rich history and bold flavors, Butter Chicken stands as a testament to love and warmth shared around the kitchen table. So voice your culinary curiosity, gather those ingredients, and embrace the fragrant journey of creating this delightful dish. Your taste buds will thank you, and who knows, it may just become a cherished staple in your cooking repertoire!

Hi, I’m Clara!

I'm a food lover and a firm believer that anyone can learn to cook with a little curiosity and courage. My story with food didn’t begin in a tiny apartment with a two-burner stove and a stack of cookbooks from the local library. I was broke and desperate to make something anything that felt like home.

About Me