Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Savor the rich, creamy goodness of this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe. With tender chicken simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner that packs a flavor punch. Serve it with rice or naan for a complete meal the whole family will love!

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2025-11-26T16:32:05.630Z

This is a delightful and simple recipe for homemade butter chicken. The combination of spices and creamy sauce makes it a family favorite, perfect for a cozy meal.

The Magic of Butter Chicken

Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, hails from northern India and has captivated taste buds around the world. This delicious dish combines marinated chicken with a rich and creamy tomato sauce, creating a delightful balance of spices and flavors. Whether you are a fan of Indian cuisine or simply looking to try something new, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

The beauty of butter chicken lies in its contrasting textures and robust flavors. The succulent pieces of chicken complement the velvety sauce, making each bite a heavenly experience. Perfect for family dinners or as a meal prep option, this recipe is not only easy to make but also adaptable to different taste preferences.

Customizing Your Butter Chicken

One of the great aspects of making homemade butter chicken is the ability to customize it to suit your taste. Feel free to adjust the spice levels—add more paprika for extra heat or a splash of cream for a richer flavor. Additionally, you can incorporate vegetables like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

If you're looking to cater to specific dietary needs, consider substituting chicken with tofu or paneer for a vegetarian version. You could also use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative. The versatility of this dish ensures that it can accommodate various dietary restrictions while still remaining delicious.

Serving Suggestions

To truly enjoy butter chicken, pairing it with the right sides is essential. Aromatic basmati rice is a classic choice, as it soaks up the sauce beautifully, allowing you to relish every bite. Naan is another great option; its soft, pillowy texture is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce. Think about preparing both for a delightful dining experience.

For those looking to enhance their meal, consider adding a side of crispy, fresh cucumber salad or a tangy raita made from yogurt to balance the richness of the butter chicken. These accompaniments not only elevate the overall meal but also provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients for Butter Chicken

1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon butter
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start cooking your delicious butter chicken!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your butter chicken.

Cook the Chicken

In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same pan, add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are translucent.

Combine and Simmer

Add the tomato sauce and spices (garam masala, paprika) to the pan. Stir well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Add Cream and Chicken

Stir in the heavy cream and add back the cooked chicken. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Serve

Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Enjoy your homemade butter chicken that is sure to be a hit!

Cooking Tips

When preparing butter chicken, marinating the chicken beforehand enhances its flavor and tenderness. A simple marinade with yogurt and spices will infuse the meat with rich flavors, making it more succulent during cooking.

Make sure to use fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to spices like garam masala and ginger. Freshly minced garlic and ginger add a depth of flavor that dried or powdered versions cannot match, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, storing them properly is key to preserving their flavor and texture. Allow the butter chicken to cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and the flavors will continue to meld together as it sits.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. This way, you can easily enjoy a hearty meal on busy days. Simply reheat in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens too much after thawing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed and cooked through.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk or a plant-based cream for a lighter version.