If you’re on the hunt for a dish that combines rich, comforting flavors with simplicity, look no further than this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe. This classic Indian favorite transforms tender bite-sized chicken pieces into a luscious, creamy delight that’s smoky, tangy, and perfectly spiced. Whether you’re a weeknight warrior or a weekend chef, this recipe will soon become your go-to for satisfying those cravings without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in crafting layers of flavor and that signature creamy texture. You won’t need anything too exotic, and the combination of simple spices and fresh elements is what makes this dish shine.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Chosen for tenderness and ability to absorb flavors beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps build the sauce’s luxurious texture.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and a savory base when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings depth and an aromatic punch to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced: Adds a subtle warmth and zesty freshness.
- 1 tablespoon garam masala: The soul of the recipe, packed with earthy and sweet spices.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Offers a nutty, smoky undertone.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander: Lends citrusy notes that brighten the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon turmeric: Hooks the dish with beautiful color and subtle earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste): Adds heat and a touch of complexity.
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes: Builds the sauce with acidity and body.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the indulgent, velvety finish that makes butter chicken so irresistible.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all flavors perfectly.
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness.
How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Melt Butter and Sauté Onions
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. This sizzling golden pool is the start of something delicious! Toss in your finely chopped onions and let them soften and turn a gorgeous golden brown—this will take about 5 minutes and develops the essential sweet base that the rest of the flavors build on.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger
Next up, stir in the minced garlic and ginger. The aroma here is utterly irresistible as these aromatics cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step layers in freshness and warmth—exactly what you want in your butter chicken.
Step 3: Toast the Spices
Now, sprinkle in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir continuously for about a minute to toast these spices lightly. Toasting them wakes up their complex flavors and fills your kitchen with tempting scents that hint at the meal ahead.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add your bite-sized chicken pieces straight into the spiced mixture. Stir to coat every morsel in the luscious blend, then cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is nicely browned. This step seals in the juices and makes sure every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 5: Simmer with Tomatoes
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, mixing everything thoroughly. Allow this to simmer gently for 5 minutes so the tomatoes meld perfectly with the spices and chicken, softening the sauce and deepening its richness.
Step 6: Stir in the Cream
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and slowly stir in the heavy cream. The sauce will instantly transform into a velvety pool of indulgence. Let it cook for another 5 minutes, giving time for all those flavors to marry beautifully.
Step 7: Season and Garnish
Finally, taste your creation and add salt as needed. When the seasoning is just right, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. That final splash of green not only brightens the presentation but adds a fresh, herbaceous lift that balances the creamy sauce perfectly.
How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro isn’t the only garnish that can elevate your butter chicken experience. Try a drizzle of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon for a subtle tang. Toasted fenugreek leaves are another fantastic option that adds depth and authenticity.
Side Dishes
Butter chicken is delicious alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to scoop up that rich sauce. For a fresher contrast, a cucumber raita or a simple green salad can add a cool crunch to balance the creamy heat.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve your butter chicken in a cast-iron skillet straight to the table, crowned with cilantro sprigs and a wedge of lime. Alternatively, turn it into a butter chicken wrap by rolling it in warm flatbread with pickled onions and fresh greens for a modern twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Butter chicken actually tastes better the next day after the flavors settle. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled before refrigerating to keep the texture intact and the flavor fresh.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, butter chicken freezes beautifully. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It will keep well for up to 3 months, making it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy days.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. Stir occasionally until warmed through. If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of water or cream to bring it back to silky perfection.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just as well, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them to keep them tender.
Is this recipe very spicy?
It’s moderately spicy, but you can easily adjust the chili powder to your taste. If you prefer it milder, reduce the chili or omit it altogether and enjoy the rich, creamy flavors without the heat.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely. Substitute butter with a neutral oil and replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a delicious dairy-free alternative that still provides creaminess.
What can I do if I don’t have garam masala?
You can mix equal parts ground cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin, and coriander as a quick homemade blend. It won’t be identical, but it’ll still bring beautiful warmth and aroma to the dish.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To kick up the heat, add more chili powder or include finely chopped fresh green chilies during cooking. A pinch of cayenne pepper also works wonders if you love a serious kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe that makes it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire. It’s effortlessly rich, warmly spiced, and bound to impress whether you’re serving family or friends. I encourage you to grab those simple ingredients, follow these easy steps, and indulge in the creamy, comforting magic of butter chicken. You might just find it becomes one of your favorite dishes to return to time and again!
Print
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a rich and creamy Indian classic made with tender chicken pieces simmered in a spiced tomato and buttery cream sauce. This recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, requiring just 35 minutes to prepare and cook. The blend of garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder brings authentic flavor to the dish, balanced by smooth heavy cream and buttery richness, garnished with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
Sauce and Seasoning
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Cut the boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic and ginger to have everything ready for cooking.
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat to create a rich base for the sauce.
- Sauté Onions: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened and golden, about 5 minutes, which builds the foundation of flavor.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, enhancing the aromatic profile.
- Toast Spices: Add garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir the spices for 1 minute to toast and bring out their essential oils and flavors.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, coating them well with the spices. Cook until browned on the outside, about 5-7 minutes, sealing in juices.
- Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and mix thoroughly. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes to deepen the flavor and soften the tomatoes.
- Incorporate Cream: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Season: Taste the sauce and add salt as needed to balance the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a bright finish. Serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- Adjust the chili powder to control the spiciness level according to your preference.
- Boneless chicken thighs retain more moisture and flavor, but chicken breasts can be used as a leaner alternative.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream.
- Serve with basmati rice or warm naan bread to complete the meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
