Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tablespoon oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen in no time.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-11T11:28:38.776Z

This quick and easy butter chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy tomato sauce is flavorful and pairs beautifully with rice or naan. Enjoy the rich taste of restaurant-style butter chicken in the comfort of your home!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that coats tender chicken pieces
Ready in under an hour for a satisfying weeknight dinner
Perfect balance of spices that everyone will enjoy

      

The Origins of Butter Chicken

Butter chicken, also known as 'Murgh Makhani,' originated in the 1950s in Delhi, India. It was an accidental invention by the chefs at the Moti Mahal restaurant who wanted to use leftover chicken. The dish quickly gained popularity for its rich, creamy texture and flavorful spices. Today, it is a staple in Indian cuisine and has made its way into restaurants and homes worldwide.

This dish exemplifies the beauty of Indian cooking, where spices are blended to create layers of flavor. The combination of tomato, cream, and spices creates a sauce that perfectly complements tender chicken. Whether served at a family dinner or a festive gathering, butter chicken remains a beloved choice.

Why This Recipe is Ideal for Busy Weeknights

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a delicious meal can be challenging. This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe is designed specifically for those busy weeknights. With a total cooking time of under an hour, you can have a satisfying dinner on the table in no time.

The simplicity of this recipe lies in its straightforward steps and minimal ingredients. You won’t have to hunt for elusive spices or spend hours in the kitchen. Instead, you can enjoy a comforting, homemade meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or quality, making it perfect for families or anyone looking to enjoy a good meal without the hassle.

Serving Suggestions

While butter chicken is delicious on its own, it pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Traditional options include fluffy basmati rice or warm, pillowy naan bread, which can be used to scoop up the sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of cucumber raita or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.

If you're looking to elevate your meal further, garnish your butter chicken with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) before serving. These small touches add not only visual appeal but also enhance the overall flavor, making your dinner an impressive feast.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon chili powder

For the Sauce

1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt and chili powder. Mix well and let it marinate for 10 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Stir in tomato puree, heavy cream, and spices. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Let simmer for another 5 minutes. Serve hot with rice or naan.

Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken

To achieve the best results, consider using bone-in chicken thighs for added flavor. However, boneless chicken thighs work perfectly for a quicker cooking time. Ensure the chicken is marinated well, allowing the spices to penetrate the meat and enhance its taste.

For an extra creamy sauce, let the butter chicken simmer a bit longer to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Adjust the spices according to your preference—if you like it spicier, feel free to add more chili powder or even some green chilies for a kick.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Butter chicken often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain the sauce's consistency.

For longer storage, you can freeze the butter chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes it a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a homemade, hearty meal even on the busiest of days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs provide a juicier texture.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce a day in advance, then combine and cook when ready.

→ What can I serve with butter chicken?

Butter chicken is best served with basmati rice or naan bread.