Easy Butter Chicken Recipe

If you’ve ever craved something creamy, gently spiced, and soul-satisfying, you’re in for a treat with this Easy Butter Chicken Recipe. This crowd-pleaser brings together perfectly browned chunks of tender chicken, a silky tomato-based sauce with a touch of heat and warmth from Indian spices, and a final splash of creaminess that tastes like a hug in a bowl. The best part? It’s unexpectedly simple to make at home—no special skills or complicated steps needed!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Easy Butter Chicken Recipe lies in its handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a starring role in the final flavor. From bold spices to luscious cream, every element adds to the irresistible combination of richness and depth that makes this dish a family favorite.

• Vegetable oil: A neutral oil helps to brown the chicken without overpowering the spices.
• Butter (divided): The signature ingredient here, butter gives the sauce its legendary richness and smooth texture.
• Chicken breasts (skinless, boneless, diced): Easy to cut into bite-sized pieces and quick to cook, chicken breasts soak up all the saucey flavors.
• Garlic (minced): Freshly minced garlic provides a savory, aromatic base that really wakes up the dish.
• Fresh ginger (grated): Ginger lends a bit of warmth and zing, balancing the other spices beautifully.
• Ground cumin: Earthy and deep, cumin is a backbone spice in butter chicken.
• Garam masala: This aromatic Indian spice blend is the secret to unforgettable flavor—don’t skip it!
• Chili powder (optional): Add it for a touch of heat, but leave it out if you prefer a milder sauce.
• Smoked paprika: Provides subtle sweetness and a smoky note that brings complexity.
• Ground turmeric: This vibrant spice not only adds color but also a gentle earthiness and health benefits.
• Salt: Essential for balancing and bringing out all those flavors.
• Tomato sauce or passata: A rich tomato base helps create that beautiful, creamy sauce you crave.
• Heavy cream: The final creamy swirl that makes the sauce velvety and luxurious.
• Fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro (for garnish): Fresh herbs add a pop of color and burst of freshness at the end.
• Cooked rice: For serving—rice soaks up every bit of that delicious sauce.
• Naan bread: Perfect for scooping and savoring the last drop.

How to Make Easy Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Begin by heating the vegetable oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and the pan is nice and hot, add your diced chicken breast in a single layer. Let the chicken cook, undisturbed, until it starts to turn golden on one side, then give it a stir to get all the pieces evenly browned. This simple step adds depth of flavor, and that gorgeous golden color sets the stage for the whole dish.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic, Ginger, and Spices

With the chicken moved to one side of the pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the open space. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger and let them sizzle just until fragrant, about a minute. Then, sprinkle in the cumin, garam masala, chili powder (if using), smoked paprika, turmeric, and salt. Stir everything together so the spices bloom in the hot butter, releasing their fragrance and flavor.

Step 3: Add Tomato Sauce and Simmer

Pour in the tomato sauce (or passata), scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate any flavorful bits stuck on from browning the chicken and spices. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated and the sauce is bubbling gently. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat for 5 to 10 minutes. This is when the chicken fully cooks and the flavors begin to meld into that unmistakable Easy Butter Chicken Recipe sauce.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Finish

Carefully remove the lid, taking in that beautiful aroma. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. Let the sauce simmer for a couple more minutes, uncovered, so it thickens slightly and becomes deliciously rich. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. It’s time to serve your Easy Butter Chicken Recipe warm—get ready for some serious flavor!

How to Serve Easy Butter Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, mint, or cilantro does wonders for both color and taste! The herbs add a burst of freshness that cuts through the creamy richness, giving each bite a lively finish. If you like a little extra heat, scatter a few slivers of fresh chili or a dusting of chili powder on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

This Easy Butter Chicken Recipe absolutely shines when served with fluffy cooked rice to soak up the luxurious sauce. For scooping and savoring, nothing beats warm naan bread on the side—its pillowy texture is made for swiping through that creamy tomato gravy. Add a side of simple cucumber salad or cooling raita if you’re in the mood for something extra refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve Easy Butter Chicken Recipe family-style in a big, shallow dish, sprinkled generously with fresh herbs and surrounded by bowls of rice and naan. Want a fun twist? Spoon the chicken and sauce into toasted naan bread “boats” and top with pickled onions for a modern take on classic flavors. Or serve the chicken on a platter alongside a medley of roasted veggies for a vibrant, colorful meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have some Easy Butter Chicken Recipe left, simply let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will stay delicious for up to three days, and the flavors often get even better overnight! Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully for up to two months. Spoon the cooled butter chicken into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, pressing out as much air as possible. Label, date, and freeze. When you’re ready for another cozy meal, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat Easy Butter Chicken Recipe gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often. You can also pop it in the microwave in short bursts if you’re in a hurry. If the sauce thickens up too much, just add a splash of water or cream to bring it back to your preferred consistency.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually more forgiving and stay extra juicy. Dice them just like you would chicken breasts, and follow the same steps in your Easy Butter Chicken Recipe for even more flavor.

Is it possible to make it dairy-free?

You can swap the butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative, and use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. The end result will be slightly different, but you’ll still capture those lush, comforting vibes.

What if I don’t have garam masala?

Garam masala is key for authentic flavor in your Easy Butter Chicken Recipe, but you can make a quick substitute by combining equal parts ground cumin, coriander, cardamom, and a pinch of cinnamon or cloves. The dish will still taste wonderful!

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! In fact, the flavors deepen if made ahead. Prepare as directed, cool fully, then refrigerate. When it’s time to eat, reheat it and add a splash of cream if needed to refresh the sauce. Easy and practical for meal prep or entertaining.

What’s the best way to get that restaurant-style creamy sauce?

The secret to that luscious sauce is in properly browning your chicken, blooming the spices in butter, and finishing with heavy cream. For an extra-silky consistency, you can even blend the tomato sauce before adding the chicken back in, but it’s optional—the Easy Butter Chicken Recipe is already wonderfully creamy as written.

Final Thoughts

I really hope you’ll give this Easy Butter Chicken Recipe a spot in your kitchen rotation. With just a handful of staples and a little bit of love, you can have a weeknight-friendly feast that everyone will look forward to. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to comfort meal!

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