Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 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; 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups heavy cream; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat); 1 teaspoon garam masala; ½ teaspoon curry powder; ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional); Naan bread; Steamed rice

Jump to Recipe·4 from 61 reviews

If you have been craving that rich, creamy, and fragrant Indian delight without the hassle of complicated cooking, this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is your new best friend. It brings the warmth of perfectly spiced chicken simmered in a luscious tomato-cream sauce right to your kitchen, all in under an hour. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can recreate the magic of restaurant-quality butter chicken that’s bursting with flavor and comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A frying pan with a white interior and blue edge filled with a thick bright red tomato sauce spread evenly on the bottom layer, topped with a pile of small golden-brown cooked chicken pieces mixed with black herbs, located mostly in the center. To the right side, a wooden spatula with a smooth texture rests on the sauce near the chicken. The background shows a white marbled surface with a dark stovetop beneath, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe relies on a handful of essential ingredients that each play a vital role in layering flavor, texture, and color. The combination of aromatic spices, creamy dairy, and fresh herbs transforms humble pantry staples into a spectacular dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Skinless boneless chicken thighs: Tender, juicy, and perfect for absorbing the spices and sauce.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish.
Garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth of garlicky aroma without overwhelming the dish.
Sweet paprika: Brings a vibrant color and a mild smoky sweetness.
Curry powder: The foundation of warm, complex spices essential to butter chicken.
Greek yogurt: Tenderizes the chicken and adds a slight tanginess.
Vegetable oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing aromatics without overpowering flavors.
Butter: Divided use ensures rich, silky creaminess in the sauce.
Garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic gives punchy flavor and aroma.
Onion (diced): Sweet and savory base for the sauce.
Tomato sauce: The hearty, tangy core of the luscious sauce.
Sugar: Balances acidity in tomato sauce and enhances sweetness.
Black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
Heavy cream: Creates the signature creamy texture and richness.
Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a gentle kick of heat.
Garam masala: A fragrant blend of spices that adds finish and warmth.
Fresh parsley (optional): Brightens the dish with a touch of color and freshness.
Naan bread: Perfect for scooping up sauce and tender chicken.
Steamed rice: The ideal neutral base to balance the rich sauce.

How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by giving the chicken a flavorful makeover. Toss those bite-sized chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt in a medium bowl. The yogurt tenderizes the meat while the spices infuse every bite with vibrant flavor. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes—this quick step works wonders, enhancing both texture and taste.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until the pieces turn a golden brown and are cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and that gorgeous sear on all sides. Once done, set the chicken aside but keep the delicious oil in the pan—that’s flavor waiting to happen.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Base

Reduce the heat to medium and add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Use it to deglaze the pan by scraping up any browned bits, which bring intense flavor to your sauce. Toss in minced garlic, diced onion, and a pinch of salt, then sauté until the onion becomes soft and fragrant, creating a rich, savory foundation.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce and sprinkle sugar over it, stirring gently. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to marry the sweet and tangy flavors. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, folding it into the sauce so each piece becomes enveloped in that rich tomato base. Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce transforms into a luscious, warm orange color that signals it’s ready for seasoning.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

Add cayenne pepper if you like a little heat, garam masala for that authentic spice blend, additional curry powder, and black pepper. Let these spices mingle with the sauce on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing all those warming flavors to deepen and beautifully coat the chicken. Taste and adjust salt as needed to get that perfect balance.

Step 6: Finish with Butter

To deliver a silken finish, stir in the remaining two tablespoons of cold butter. This final touch melts gently into the sauce, adding luxurious gloss and velvety smoothness. If you want a burst of color and a fresh counterpoint, sprinkle some chopped parsley right before serving.

How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

A deep white pan filled with a thick, creamy orange sauce dotted with small pieces of food evenly spread throughout. The sauce has a smooth texture with specks of green herbs and black pepper sprinkled on top, giving it a fresh, slightly textured look. The pan rests on a white marbled surface, with the sauce nearly reaching the rim, showing a slight residue on the pan edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a refreshing pop of green and a mild herbal note that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Alternatively, a sprinkle of garam masala or a few fresh cilantro leaves can elevate the dish’s aroma and presentation.

Side Dishes

Nothing complements this buttery, spiced chicken like soft naan bread or fluffy steamed basmati rice. The naan is perfect for scooping up every last bit of the sauce, while rice provides a gentle contrast that soaks up the flavors without overpowering them. You could also serve with a side of lightly sautéed greens or cucumber raita to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve the butter chicken in individual bowls garnished with swirls of cream and a sprinkle of paprika for a colorful finish. Layer it over a bed of fragrant saffron rice or stuffed into warm naan wraps with fresh cucumber slices and a drizzle of yogurt sauce for an indulgent handheld meal. Get creative and make the presentation as inviting as the flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights when you crave comfort without the wait.

Freezing

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave room for the sauce to expand, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating. Adding a splash of water or cream can help refresh the sauce and keep the chicken tender. Microwaving is possible but proceed carefully in short intervals to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can! While chicken thighs stay juicier and absorb flavors well, chicken breasts work fine. Just be careful not to overcook as breasts can dry out faster.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely. Try swapping chicken for paneer or tofu, and follow the same steps. The rich sauce pairs beautifully with these proteins and maintains the classic butter chicken flavors.

How spicy is this recipe? Can I adjust the heat?

The heat level is mild by default but can be easily adjusted by adding or leaving out the cayenne pepper. Feel free to increase spice or add chili powder for a kick, or omit entirely for a milder dish.

What alternatives are there for heavy cream?

If you want to lighten the dish, coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk works well and adds a subtle tropical note. Greek yogurt can also be used but add it at the end to avoid curdling.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, preparing the sauce ahead of time is a great way to save time. Just store the sauce separately and reheat gently before adding freshly cooked chicken for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy authentic, creamy, and flavorful Indian cuisine without fuss. It’s approachable, comforting, and impressive enough to serve to family and friends. Don’t hesitate to dive in—once you taste this, it’s going to be a regular in your recipe rotation!