Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon sweet paprika; ½ teaspoon curry powder; 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 tablespoons butter, divided; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups heavy cream; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat); 1 teaspoon garam masala; ½ teaspoon curry powder; ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish); Naan bread; Steamed rice

January 1, 2026 by Daniel Carter

Delicious homemade butter chicken served with rice and naan

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Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe: A Journey to Comfort in Every Bite

Nothing quite compares to the warming embrace of a well-cooked meal, particularly one that takes you on an aromatic journey through the heart of Indian cuisine. Picture this: a chilly evening, the soft glow of candlelight dancing on the walls of your kitchen, and a simmering pot of butter chicken filling the air with rich, mouthwatering scents. The vivid colors of the dish—a luscious orange-red sauce inviting you to dive in—set the perfect stage for a cozy gathering with loved ones. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also wraps you in a warmth that feels like a big hug at the end of a long day.

As you sip on a cup of fragrant chai and prepare to serve this delectable creation, the anticipation builds. Friends and family will gather around the table, eager to share in the experience of tender chicken nestled in a creamy, spicy sauce, against the backdrop of warm naan and fluffy rice. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a conversation starter, a source of comfort, and a chance to create beautiful memories worth cherishing.

What You’ll Need

Before we delve into the wonderful process of creating this dish, let’s take a moment to gather all the essential ingredients and tools. Having them neatly arranged will streamline your cooking experience, making it all the more enjoyable.

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
½ teaspoon curry powder
1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons butter, divided
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium onion, diced
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups heavy cream
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1 teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon curry powder
¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Naan bread
Steamed rice

Tools

To create your masterpiece, equip yourself with the following kitchen tools:

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring spoons and cups
Sharp knife
Cutting board

How to Make It

Creating your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is easier than you might think! The secret lies in a few simple steps that build layers of flavor and texture, ensuring that the final dish is nothing short of spectacular.

Prep the Base

Start by giving the chicken a flavorful massage. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bite-sized chunks of chicken with the salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, and curry powder. The spices lend themselves beautifully to the rich tapestry of flavors you’re about to create. Add the Greek yogurt, allowing it to coat the chicken pieces with a creamy layer that promises to tenderize the meat as it marinates. Cover the bowl and toss it into the refrigerator, allowing the mixture to mingle for at least 15 minutes (though overnight marinating promises an even deeper flavor).

Build the Flavor

As you prepare to move forward, let the enticing aromas of your kitchen bloom. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then toss in one tablespoon of butter. The combination sizzles and crackles as it transforms your kitchen into a fragrant haven. Next, add the minced garlic and diced onion, mixing them until they turn golden brown and release their sweet and savory scents. This is the heart of the dish, where the rich foundation is laid.

Now, introduce the tomato sauce to the party, followed by sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling bold), garam masala, and an additional dash of curry powder. Stir everything together, watching as the colors blend into a thick, velvety texture. Let this sauce simmer, whispering culinary secrets as it reduces, deepening its character with every passing minute.

Cook the Chicken

Once your sauce has reached a sweet bubble, it’s time to bring your marinated chicken into the mix. In a separate pan, cook the chicken until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, the spices gently enveloping each piece. The sizzling sound mingles harmoniously with the bubbling sauce, creating an orchestra of culinary delight. Once it’s thoroughly cooked, add it to the simmering sauce, stirring gently to coat each piece in the creamy richness. To finish, incorporate the remaining two tablespoons of butter, infusing the dish with unparalleled silkiness.

Simmer and Serve

Now is the moment of truth: allow your dish to simmer for a few more minutes, letting all those glorious flavors meld together. The aroma of spices wafts through your home, inviting everyone to the table. As the sauce thickens to a luxurious texture, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, adding a vibrant pop of color that beckons you to dive in. Serve your sumptuous butter chicken hot alongside warm, pillowy naan bread and fluffy steamed rice.

Creative Twists

While this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe shines in its original form, feel free to explore some creative variations that highlight seasonal ingredients and unique flavor profiles:

Seasonal Twists: Incorporate roasted vegetables like butternut squash or cauliflower for a fall-inspired dish, or toss in fresh spinach for a pop of color and nutrition in the spring.
Flavor Upgrades: Experiment with different spice combinations, such as adding a pinch of cardamom for warmth or a splash of coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Protein Swaps: Swap out chicken for tender pieces of lamb or tofu for a vegetarian option. This recipe easily adapts to your preferred protein.
Grain Swaps: Serve your butter chicken over quinoa, couscous, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a healthier alternative to rice.

Final Inspiration

As you clear the table and bask in the compliments, remember that this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is not just a dish but an experience that brings people together. Whether it’s shared with family around the dinner table on a hectic weeknight or served with flair during a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.

So, roll up your sleeves, invite your loved ones into the kitchen, and create not just a meal, but a moment filled with laughter, warmth, and the joy of sharing good food. Every bite will transport you to a place of comfort and satisfaction. Enjoy your culinary journey; it’s bound to become a delightful tradition you look forward to repeating!

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