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 pieces; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt to taste; Cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Savor the rich and creamy flavors of this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe, perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender chicken pieces simmered in a buttery tomato sauce, infused with aromatic spices for an authentic taste. Serve it over rice or with naan for a delightful and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2025-11-11T17:08:11.721Z

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the family together. The aroma fills your kitchen and creates an inviting atmosphere that everyone loves.

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

Butter chicken is an incredible dish that perfectly balances rich flavors and a cozy vibe, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a delightful meal that feels special without demanding hours in the kitchen. This recipe allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality food from the comfort of your own home, making it perfect for parents juggling various dinner commitments or anyone seeking a quick yet satisfying meal.

Additionally, this dish is incredibly versatile, allowing for adjustments based on your family's preferences. Whether you wish to make it mildly spiced for kids or kick up the heat for adult palates, butter chicken caters to all tastes. Simply tweak the level of spices to create your perfect blend, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy and satisfied.

An Authentic Taste of India

While the recipe is designed to be quick and easy, it does not compromise on flavor. The combination of spices like garam masala and paprika delivers an authentic taste reminiscent of traditional Indian cuisine. These spices are not just aromatic; they also provide health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants. By bringing these flavors into your kitchen, you can indulge in a global culinary experience without needing to venture out to the nearest Indian restaurant.

Moreover, the creamy tomato sauce is a stellar companion to the spices, providing a rich backdrop that beautifully envelops the tender chicken. Each bite is a comforting experience, transporting you to the vibrant streets of India, where food is celebrated and loved. Pair it with fluffy naan or a bowl of steaming rice, and you create a truly memorable dining experience at home.

Quick and Simple Preparation

One of the greatest advantages of this butter chicken recipe is its simplicity. The entire cooking process can be completed in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for those evenings when you want something delicious without the fuss. It requires minimal cooking skills, so even novice cooks will feel confident tackling this dish. Just a few essential steps and basic kitchen tools are all you need to produce a fantastic meal.

For meal preppers, this butter chicken recipe is a gem. You can easily double or triple the ingredients to prepare portions ahead of time, which is perfect for busy workweeks. Once cooked, the dish stores well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Reheat it quickly, and dinner is ready in no time!

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb chicken breast, cut into pieces
2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt to taste
Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until the onions are translucent.

Add the chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink.

Make the Sauce

Stir in the tomato puree, heavy cream, garam masala, and paprika. Season with salt and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with cilantro and serve hot over rice or with naan.

Serving Suggestions

Butter chicken is best served over a bed of fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up the rich sauce beautifully. You can also accompany it with freshly baked naan, perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce. Consider adding a side of cooling cucumber raita to balance the heat, enhancing the overall dining experience. This soothing yogurt-based dish pairs excellently with the spices in the curry.

If you're looking to elevate the meal further, roast some seasonal vegetables or prepare a side salad with a tangy dressing. These additions provide great color and crunch, complementing the comforting nature of butter chicken. Whether it's a casual family meal or a gathering of friends, these serving ideas will impress your guests.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in for a treat! Butter chicken stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Transfer it to an airtight container, ensuring it's sealed properly to maintain freshness. It's essential to let the dish cool before placing it in the fridge so it doesn't raise the temperature inside, which can affect other stored foods.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat the butter chicken gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. You can add a splash of water or additional cream to thin it out and bring back its luscious consistency. Microwaving is also an option; just ensure you cover it lightly to avoid splatters.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just ensure to thaw it completely before cooking.

→ Is this recipe spicy?

It is mildly spiced but you can adjust the level by adding more chili powder.