Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

If you’ve ever craved the rich, creamy flavors of Indian takeout but wanted something simple enough to whip up at home, this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is your answer. It’s my go-to comfort meal—tender chicken simmered in a velvety tomato-butter sauce that’s perfectly spiced but not overpowering. The best part? You don’t need hours in the kitchen to make it.

What is Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken?

Butter chicken is a classic Indian dish that’s loved worldwide. It has juicy chicken pieces cooked in a mildly spiced tomato-based sauce enriched with butter and cream. The flavor is rich, creamy, and slightly smoky, yet it’s gentle enough for people who don’t love spicy food. It pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or even just on its own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the chicken marinade:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt

For the sauce:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp chili powder (optional, for heat)
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, and spices. Add chicken and coat well. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (overnight is best).
2. Cook the chicken: Heat a pan with a little oil. Cook the chicken pieces until golden on the outside. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the sauce: In the same pan, melt butter. Add onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant.
4. Add spices and tomatoes: Stir in garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder. Pour in tomato sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Finish the dish: Stir in cream, then add the cooked chicken back. Simmer for another 10 minutes until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Serve: Garnish with cilantro and enjoy with warm rice or naan.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly to keep the sauce creamy.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Steamed basmati rice or garlic naan.
• Lighter: Cauliflower rice or whole wheat pita.
• Extra indulgent: A drizzle of extra cream on top before serving.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Swap heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• Add veggies like peas or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Adjust chili powder to make it mild or spicy.

FAQs

1. Is butter chicken spicy?
Not really. It’s more creamy and flavorful than hot. You can adjust chili powder to suit your taste.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs are juicier and work perfectly in this recipe.

3. How do I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free butter.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. The flavors deepen overnight, so it tastes even better the next day.

Final Thoughts

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—simple, comforting, and packed with flavor. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll skip takeout next time. Grab some naan, scoop up that creamy sauce, and enjoy a restaurant-style meal right at home!