Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: PT-490357H37M55S
Cuisine: Indian‑Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb (≈ 450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite‑sized pieces; 2 tbsp plain yogurt (optional, for quick marinade); 1 tsp minced garlic; 1 tsp grated fresh ginger; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp oil or butter (for cooking chicken); 3–4 tbsp butter (for sauce); 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp grated ginger (for sauce); 1 (400 ml) can crushed tomatoes or tomato puree (or equivalent fresh tomatoes, blended); ¾ cup heavy cream or coconut milk; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 1–2 tsp garam masala; 1–2 tsp sugar or honey (optional, to balance acidity); Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Quick & easy homemade butter chicken is a creamy, flavorful, and comforting dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. It features tender pieces of chicken simmered in a buttery tomato-based sauce, infused with warm spices, and finished with cream for that signature rich texture. It’s everything I crave in a cozy, satisfying meal—without the takeout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, fuss-free, and packed with deep flavor. The chicken is juicy, the sauce is smooth and slightly sweet with just the right amount of spice, and everything cooks in one pan. It’s perfect for weeknights when I want something warm and hearty without a lot of prep or cleanup. Plus, it pairs perfectly with rice, naan, or even roasted vegetables. Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Plain yogurt (optional, for quick marinating)
Garlic (minced)
Ginger (grated)
Ground cumin
Ground paprika
Salt and pepper
Olive oil or butter (for cooking)

For the sauce:

Butter
Onion (finely chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Fresh ginger (grated)
Tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
Heavy cream or coconut milk
Garam masala
Ground turmeric
Ground cumin
Paprika
Sugar or honey (to balance acidity)
Salt and pepper
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

I season the chicken with yogurt, garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. If I have a few minutes, I let it sit to marinate.
I heat oil or butter in a large skillet and sear the chicken until golden and just cooked through. I remove it from the pan and set it aside.
In the same skillet, I melt butter and sauté the onion until soft. Then I add garlic and ginger and cook until fragrant.
I stir in the tomato puree and simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
I add the cream, spices, and sugar, stir well, and let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
I return the chicken to the pan and simmer everything together for a few more minutes.
I garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

I swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
For more heat, I add cayenne pepper or a diced chili.
I’ve used tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
When I want a shortcut, I use leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I warm it on the stove over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.
It also freezes well—I let it cool completely, then freeze for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

FAQs

Can I make butter chicken without cream?

Yes, I often use coconut milk or cashew cream as a lighter or dairy-free alternative. The result is still rich and smooth.

Is butter chicken spicy?

It’s mildly spiced, not overly hot. I adjust the heat by adding more or less chili or cayenne based on who I’m serving.

What’s the best chicken to use?

I prefer boneless chicken thighs for tenderness and flavor, but chicken breast works just as well if I don’t overcook it.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I make it a day ahead and reheat it before serving. The flavors actually deepen after resting.

What can I serve with butter chicken?

I usually pair it with basmati rice, naan, or flatbread. It’s also great with roasted veggies or a simple cucumber salad.

Conclusion

Quick & easy homemade butter chicken is one of those comforting meals that tastes like I’ve spent hours in the kitchen—but takes just 30 minutes. The creamy, spiced sauce and tender chicken come together perfectly every time. Whether I’m cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish always impresses without the stress.