Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

If you’re in search of an irresistible dinner that’s both simple to prepare and lush with flavor, the Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is sure to win your heart! This creamy, aromatic dish brings together succulent chunks of chicken, a velvety tomato-cream sauce, and just the right blend of spices, delivering a restaurant-quality meal right from your own kitchen. Plus, it’s fast enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests—you’ll want to make it again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best thing about this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is just how approachable the ingredient list is. Each component plays a crucial role, from tender chicken thighs that soak up all the spices, to pantry-friendly seasonings that build a layer upon layer of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Chicken Thighs: Boneless and skinless for extra tenderness and richness, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Salt: Enhances every single flavor in this dish—don’t skip or skimp!
• Garlic Powder: Adds depth and a sweet-savory backbone to both the marinade and sauce.
• Sweet Paprika: Brings warmth and a brilliant reddish color—you’ll see its effect in the striking sauce.
• Curry Powder: An easy shortcut for a complex, layered flavor meld; use your favorite blend for best results.
• Greek Yogurt: Tenderizes the chicken during marination, making every bite smooth and juicy.
• Vegetable Oil: A neutral oil for searing the chicken to golden perfection.
• Butter: The signature ingredient—adds decadent silkiness and a subtle nutty undertone.
• Garlic (fresh): Six whole cloves means a big punch of aromatic goodness; don’t be shy!
• Onion: Delivers sweetness and body to the sauce—dice for best texture.
• Tomato Sauce: Gives the sauce its tangy richness and vibrant color.
• Sugar: Balances acidity from the tomatoes and unifies the flavors.
• Black Pepper: Adds warmth and a whisper of heat.
• Heavy Cream: The magic ingredient for a luscious, creamy sauce.
• Cayenne Pepper (optional): For those who love a gentle flourish of heat.
• Garam Masala: Classic Indian spice blend for earthiness and a sweet-spicy aroma.
• Fresh Parsley: The perfect finishing touch; adds color and freshness. Optional, but recommended!
• Naan Bread: For scooping up every last drop of sauce.
• Steamed Rice: A fluffy, neutral companion to let the butter chicken shine.

How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe by tossing your chicken thighs in a bowl with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and a dollop of Greek yogurt. Make sure every piece is well-coated—this short marinade is the secret weapon for juicy, flavorful chicken that melts in your mouth. Let it sit at least 15 minutes while you prep your other ingredients. Even this little bit of time will work magic!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat up your pan with a splash of vegetable oil, and slide in the chicken. Let it sizzle, stirring occasionally, until every piece is golden brown and cooked through—this usually takes 8–10 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate but leave behind the flavorful oil for the next step. This not only keeps your chicken tender but also infuses the sauce with all the seasoned bits left in the pan.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Base

Lower your heat and toss a tablespoon of butter into the same skillet (don’t wipe it out!). Scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom—those are pure flavor. Add garlic and onions, plus a pinch of salt, then sauté until the onions are translucent and your kitchen smells heavenly. This is the foundational flavor for the gravy to come.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in your tomato sauce and sprinkle in the sugar, letting everything simmer for a few minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, coating every bite thoroughly, then slowly pour in the heavy cream. Watch as the sauce transforms into its signature creamy orange color—this is what makes butter chicken, well, butter chicken!

Step 5: Season and Simmer

Add the last pop of flavor with cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, additional curry powder, and black pepper. Lower the heat and let everything simmer gently for about ten minutes. This is where the sauce thickens and all those beautiful flavors mingle. Don’t rush it—let the aroma fill your kitchen!

Step 6: Finish with Butter

For the final flourish, stir in the remaining cold butter until it melts smoothly into the sauce. This step adds a glossy sheen and that unmistakable silkiness to your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you’re after a touch of color and freshness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Your butter chicken is ready to shine! Serve it hot, preferably with fluffy steamed rice and soft, pillowy naan—the perfect vehicles for enjoying every drop of that luscious sauce. This step brings the whole delicious experience together!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the top gives beautiful color contrast and a fresh pop that brightens the dish. For added pizzazz, a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of extra garam masala at the end also looks stunning and tastes fantastic.

Side Dishes

Butter chicken is best served with plenty of steamed white rice or basmati to soak up the rich sauce. Naan bread is a must-have—its soft, chewy texture is made for scooping. You can even add lightly sautéed greens or a fresh cucumber salad to round out your meal with crunch and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, serve your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe in a large, shallow bowl and arrange naan triangles or rice around the edge. Or, portion into individual bowls with a mini ladle of sauce, a dollop of yogurt, and a sprinkle of parsley to make your guests feel special. It looks just as fabulous in a family-style platter, perfect for a cozy night in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), let the butter chicken cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days—just enough time for the flavors to deepen and become even more delicious.

Freezing

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is freezer-friendly! Place cooled portions into individual containers or freezer bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge for a meal prep win you’ll thank yourself for later.

Reheating

Gently reheat in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture. If you’re using the microwave, cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring often. Either way, it’ll taste just as good as day one.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works well, just keep an eye on the cooking time—they cook faster and can dry out more quickly. Thighs remain juicier, but either cut delivers great results in this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The beauty of this dish is in its balance. As written, it’s mild and family-friendly. Add more cayenne or chili for a spicier kick, or leave it out for a gentle warmth. You get full control over the heat!

Do I really need to marinate the chicken?

While a longer marinade will develop deeper flavors, even 15 minutes with yogurt and spices makes a big difference. It’s worth it, even when you’re short on time—the marinade ensures juicy, seasoned chicken in every bite.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes—substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use a plant-based yogurt and butter. The flavor profile shifts slightly, but the sauce remains wonderfully creamy and delicious.

What if I don’t have garam masala?

If you can’t find garam masala, use a blend of ground cumin, coriander, and a hint of cinnamon or allspice. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll provide a warm, aromatic backbone to your butter chicken sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of cozy comfort and vibrant flavor that’s easy enough for weeknights, yet still feels like something truly special. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your favorite go-to Indian dish!

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