Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Savor the rich, creamy taste of homemade Butter Chicken without spending hours in the kitchen. This simple recipe combines tender chicken pieces in a luscious sauce made from tomatoes, cream, and aromatic spices, ensuring you enjoy a delightful meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing your guests, this dish pairs wonderfully with rice or naan for a complete Indian feast.

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-02T09:33:50.370Z

This quick and easy Butter Chicken recipe allows you to enjoy the classic flavors of Indian cuisine right in your own home without the hassle of a lengthy cooking process.

The Origins of Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, hails from the cuisine of Northern India, particularly the Punjab region. Its origins are believed to date back to the 1950s when the chefs of the Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi creatively combined leftover chicken with a rich, buttery tomato sauce. Today, this dish is a staple in Indian households and restaurants worldwide, known for its creamy texture and aromatic spices.

The dish embodies the essence of Indian cooking, where spices play a pivotal role. The combination of garam masala, cumin, and coriander lends depth and richness to the sauce, making it an ideal comfort food. Butter Chicken’s success lies in its intricate balance of flavors—spicy, creamy, and slightly sweet—all coming together to create a harmonious meal.

Perfect Pairings

Butter Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. The most popular companions include fluffy basmati rice or soft, chewy naan bread, both of which are perfect for soaking up the rich, flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with jeera rice, which adds an additional nutty flavor profile that complements the dish beautifully.

For those looking to add some greens to their meal, a side of sautéed spinach or a fresh cucumber salad provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy chicken. Moreover, pairing Butter Chicken with a refreshing lassi or a chilled Indian beer can elevate the dining experience, balancing the spices and adding another layer of enjoyment.

Storing and Reheating

One of the great aspects of Butter Chicken is its ability to store well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it, where it remains good for up to 3 months.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating can be done seamlessly. Simply thaw frozen Butter Chicken in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat. You may need to add a splash of water or cream to restore its original creamy consistency. Serve hot with your favorite side, and you'll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Ingredients

For the Butter Chicken

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
1 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Serve this dish with rice or naan for a complete meal!

Cooking Steps

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are translucent. Stir in the tomato puree, cream, garam masala, cumin, and salt. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Butter Chicken with rice or naan!

Cooking Tips for Success

For the best Butter Chicken experience, using marinated chicken can enhance the flavors significantly. Consider marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices for at least an hour—or even overnight—for tender, flavor-infused meat. This step not only improves the taste but also ensures a succulent texture that you and your guests will love.

Be mindful of the spice levels. While Butter Chicken is known for its rich flavors, you can adjust the intensity of the spices to suit your palate. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of garam masala or cumin. Conversely, if you enjoy a spicier kick, feel free to add chili powder or fresh chilies during cooking.

Variations and Customizations

One of the beautiful things about Butter Chicken is its adaptability. While the classic recipe uses chicken, you can easily substitute it with paneer for a vegetarian version. This variation retains the creamy texture and robust flavors, making it a delicious alternative for non-meat eaters.

You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers, peas, or spinach, to create a heartier dish. Adding these ingredients not only increases the nutritional value but also enhances the visual appeal of your Butter Chicken, making it a vibrant centerpiece for your dining table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add extra flavor and tenderness to the dish.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free option.