Name: Quick and Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup plain yogurt; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp chili powder; 4 tbsp butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

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Quick and Easy Homemade Butter Chicken 🍛🧈🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a flavorful, comforting dish that comes together quickly, then this Butter Chicken Recipe is perfect for you. Also known as Homemade Butter Chicken or Easy Butter Chicken, this recipe offers a rich, creamy sauce combined with tender chicken pieces. Whether you want a hearty weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to impress guests, this Quick Butter Chicken recipe hits all the right notes with minimal fuss. It’s an ideal dish for those who love Indian cuisine but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

2. Ingredients for the Best Butter Chicken

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp ginger garlic paste
2 tbsp butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 tomatoes, pureed
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

For a quick shopping list and some helpful cooking tools, check out our recommended Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer or a sturdy T-fal 14-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set.

3. Step-by-Step: How to Make Homemade Butter Chicken

Preparing the Chicken Marinade

Combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger garlic paste, and a pinch of salt. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to ensure the flavors penetrate the meat. This step is crucial for moist and flavorful chicken in your Easy Butter Chicken.

Cooking the Chicken

In a large skillet or pan, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Making the Sauce

In the same pan, add the remaining butter and sauté the chopped onions until translucent. Stir in the tomato puree, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Cook for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and deepens in flavor.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir well. Pour in the heavy cream or coconut cream, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Finish with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.

Serving Your Quick Butter Chicken

Serve this delicious dish hot with basmati rice, naan, or your preferred side. The creamy sauce and tender chicken make every bite satisfying and flavorful.

4. Tips for Perfect Homemade Butter Chicken

For extra tenderness, marinate the chicken longer, up to a few hours or overnight.

Adjust the chili powder to suit your spice preference.
If you want a richer sauce, add more cream or a dollop of butter at the end.
Use fresh tomatoes for a more authentic taste, or opt for canned purees for convenience.

5. Storage and Reheating Tips

This Homemade Butter Chicken keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

6. Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Pair this comforting dish with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. For a complete feast, consider serving a fresh salad or raita to balance the richness of the Easy Butter Chicken.

Looking for more quick dinner ideas? Check our Low Carb Philly Cheesesteak Bowls for a protein-packed alternative.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Butter Chicken Recipe

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative. Use dairy-free yogurt for the marinade as well.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

Including marinating time, this Quick Butter Chicken recipe takes approximately 40-45 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs are more forgiving and tend to stay moist. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook, as they can dry out quickly.

Is this dish spicy?

The recipe can be adjusted to your spice tolerance. Use less chili powder or omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.

8. Kitchen Tools that You Might Need for This Recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for quick, evenly cooked chicken without extra oil, making your Homemade Butter Chicken even healthier.
T-fal 14-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set — A versatile set that ensures nonstick performance, ideal for sautéing and simmering the sauce comfortably.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Prepare your chicken with minimal fuss and enjoy a crisp texture if desired.

9. Conclusion

This Butter Chicken Recipe proves that you can make a restaurant-quality, Homemade Butter Chicken in just under an hour, even on busy weeknights. Its rich, creamy sauce paired with tender chicken makes it a favorite among all ages. Plus, the simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean anyone can master this dish. Try it today and enjoy creamy, flavorful butter chicken in the comfort of your home!