Mouthwatering Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe – are you ready to transform your weeknight dinners into a culinary celebration? I know I am! This iconic dish, known globally for its rich, velvety sauce and succulent chicken, often feels like a restaurant-only luxury. But what if I told you that you could recreate that magic in your own kitchen with minimal fuss? Originating from the bustling streets of Delhi, India, butter chicken, or Murgh Makhani, holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers. It’s a testament to the beautiful balance of creaminess, tang, and aromatic spices that have captivated palates worldwide. People adore this dish not just for its incredible, melt-in-your-mouth flavor and tender chicken, but also for the comforting warmth it brings to any meal, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining. My goal today is to guide you through a method that proves this ultimate comfort food can indeed be a Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with a dish that’s truly extraordinary yet surprisingly simple.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Marinade:
  • 500g boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes (I personally prefer thighs for juicier results!)
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (full-fat works best for creaminess)
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (or 1-inch fresh ginger and 3-4 cloves garlic, crushed)
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• For the Butter Chicken Gravy:
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (I often use a little more because, well, it’s butter chicken!)
  • 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or canola)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 green chili, slit lengthwise (optional, for extra kick)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (again, adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 400g canned crushed tomatoes or 3-4 medium fresh tomatoes, pureed
  • 1/4 cup raw cashews (soaked in warm water for 15-20 minutes, then drained, if you want extra smooth results)
  • 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar or a drizzle of honey, to balance flavors
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or cashew cream for a dairy-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (Kasoori Methi), crushed between your palms
  • Salt to taste
• For Garnish:
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • A swirl of heavy cream
  • A knob of butter

Marinating the Chicken: The Foundation of Flavor

1. First things first, let’s get our chicken ready! Take your 500g of boneless chicken (I usually go for thighs because they stay incredibly juicy, but breast works perfectly too), and cut it into neat 1-inch cubes. Uniform pieces will help everything cook evenly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken cubes with all the marinade ingredients: the creamy plain yogurt, the aromatic ginger-garlic paste, a vibrant dash of red chili powder, the earthy turmeric powder, fragrant garam masala, a pinch of salt, and a bright squeeze of lemon juice.
3. Now, get your hands in there and mix everything thoroughly! You want every single piece of chicken to be coated in that wonderful marinade. This step is crucial because the yogurt acts as a tenderizer, and the spices infuse deep flavor into the chicken before it even hits the pan. It’s what makes the chicken taste so rich and authentic in the final dish.
4. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For the absolute best results and a truly tender, flavorful chicken, I highly recommend marinating for 2-4 hours, or even overnight if you have the time! The longer it marinates, the more flavor it absorbs, and the more tender it becomes. This is a key step to achieve that “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe” deliciousness.

Crafting the Luscious Gravy Base: Where the Magic Begins

5. While your chicken is soaking up all those wonderful flavors, let’s start on our gravy. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 1 tablespoon of oil. The oil helps prevent the butter from burning too quickly and ensures a beautiful golden color.
6. Add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Sauté the onions gently, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, translucent, and start to turn a light golden-brown. This process usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Patience here is a virtue! Properly caramelized onions are the secret to a naturally sweet and deep-flavored gravy base. Don’t rush this step, as undercooked onions can give your gravy an unwanted raw taste.
7. Next, add the ginger-garlic paste and the optional slit green chili. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until their raw aroma disappears and your kitchen starts to smell absolutely divine. Be careful not to burn them.
8. Now, it’s time for the ground spices! Add the cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala. Stir continuously for about 30-60 seconds. This step, known as “bhuno” in Indian cooking, toasts the spices and releases their full aromatic potential. It also prevents them from tasting raw. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a tiny splash of water to prevent the spices from burning.
9. Pour in the 400g of crushed tomatoes (or your fresh tomato puree). Give everything a good stir and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. At this point, I like to add the raw cashews (if you didn’t soak them, it’s okay, but soaking helps them blend super smooth). The cashews are a game-changer; they add incredible richness, body, and a luxurious creamy texture to the gravy.
10. Stir in 1/2 cup of water or chicken broth. Bring the mixture back to a simmer, then cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the tomatoes to cook down, lose their acidity, and for all the flavors to meld together beautifully. You’ll notice the oil starting to separate on the sides, which is a good sign that your base is cooking well.
11. Once the tomato mixture has cooked down and cooled slightly (this is important for safety and a smooth blend), carefully transfer it to a blender. Be extremely cautious when blending hot liquids! You might want to do it in batches or leave the lid slightly ajar, covering it with a kitchen towel to allow steam to escape. Blend until the mixture is incredibly smooth and creamy, with no visible chunks of onion or cashew. This blending step is what gives butter chicken its signature velvety texture. I usually blend for a good 2-3 minutes to ensure it’s perfectly smooth.
12. Carefully pour the silky-smooth gravy back into the clean pot. You might even want to pass it through a fine-mesh sieve for an even more refined texture, though I often skip this for my “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe” as blending well is usually enough.

Cooking the Chicken and Uniting with the Gravy

13. Now, let’s cook our marinated chicken. You have a couple of options here, depending on your desired outcome.
    • Option A (My preferred for this Quick Easy recipe): In a separate pan or in the same pot you used for the gravy (wiped clean), add a little more butter or oil. Over medium-high heat, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary. Sear the chicken for 3-5 minutes on each side until it’s nicely browned and slightly charred on the edges. The char adds a wonderful depth of flavor, mimicking a tandoor oven. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the gravy.
    • Option B (If you want a less charred, softer chicken): You can also gently cook the chicken in the same pot after the gravy base has been blended and set aside. Just ensure it’s cooked through until no longer pink.
14. Once your chicken is beautifully seared (Option A), add the cooked chicken pieces directly into the pot with the smooth, simmering gravy. Stir gently to combine everything.
15. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer again. Cover the pot and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the chicken to fully cook through and absorb all the incredible flavors of the gravy. The simmering time also allows the sauce to thicken slightly and for all the spices to marry perfectly.

The Finishing Touches: Achieving Butter Chicken Perfection

16. This is where we add the magic that truly defines butter chicken! Stir in the 1/2 cup of heavy cream. This adds an incredible richness, a beautiful light orange hue, and a luxurious mouthfeel. If you’re going dairy-free, a cashew cream (cashews blended with water) works wonderfully too!
17. Next, add the 1/2 teaspoon of sugar or a drizzle of honey. This isn’t for sweetness, but rather to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and round out the flavors, creating that perfectly harmonious taste profile. Taste and adjust if you feel it needs a little more.
18. Now for the star flavor that gives butter chicken its distinctive aroma: the dried fenugreek leaves, or Kasoori Methi. Take 1 teaspoon of Kasoori Methi in your palms and gently crush them together before adding them to the pot. This crushing action releases their essential oils and intensifies their unique, slightly bitter, and incredibly fragrant flavor. Trust me, this ingredient is non-negotiable for an authentic “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe”!
19. Stir everything together one last time. Taste the gravy and adjust the salt if needed. Sometimes, I find it needs a final pinch to really make all the flavors pop.
20. Let the butter chicken simmer for just another 2-3 minutes on low heat, uncovered, allowing all the finishing touches to fully integrate. You’ll notice the gravy becoming even more velvety and the aromas filling your kitchen beautifully.

Serving Your Masterpiece

21. To serve, ladle your glorious homemade butter chicken into serving bowls.
22. Garnish generously with fresh, chopped cilantro. A final swirl of heavy cream on top and a small knob of butter melting into the warm gravy will make it look utterly irresistible and add an extra layer of richness.
23. Serve your “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe” piping hot with warm naan bread for dipping (my personal favorite!), fluffy basmati rice, or even a simple roti. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or to impress guests! Enjoy the rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying flavors you’ve created!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! We’ve journeyed through the steps to create a truly unforgettable meal, and I genuinely believe that this particular recipe isn’t just another dish; it’s an experience. If you’ve been looking for that perfect balance of creamy richness, aromatic spices, and tender chicken, then look no further. This is precisely why this recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone who appreciates truly flavorful Indian cuisine, whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary adventures. What makes it so special, you ask? Well, it’s the way the ingredients come together in a symphony of flavors – the sweetness of tomatoes perfectly complementing the subtle heat of the spices, all enveloped in that velvety, luxurious sauce. Every spoonful is a testament to how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary. Forget about costly takeout or complicated restaurant reservations; with this Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe, you can bring the authentic taste of India right to your dining table, crafted with love and tailored to your exact preferences.

The beauty of this dish extends far beyond its incredible taste. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit any occasion or dietary need. When it comes to serving suggestions, the classics are always winners. I absolutely love pairing this butter chicken with a generous helping of fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up all that glorious sauce beautifully. And, of course, no Indian feast is complete without some warm, freshly baked naan bread – perfect for scooping up every last drop of the rich gravy. Don’t stop there though! For a lighter option, consider serving it with brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice if you’re keeping things low-carb. A simple side salad, perhaps with a cooling cucumber-yogurt raita, can also provide a wonderful contrast to the richness of the butter chicken, adding a refreshing crunch to your meal. For those looking to elevate the experience further, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a dollop of extra cream just before serving adds both visual appeal and an extra layer of decadence. And for a truly authentic touch, don’t forget to offer a lemon wedge on the side; a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors in a surprising and delightful way.

Creative Variations to Explore

Beyond traditional accompaniments, this recipe is a fantastic canvas for creative variations. Feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking – a little extra cayenne pepper for those who crave more heat, or a touch more cream to mellow things out for sensitive palates. If chicken isn’t your preferred protein, this sauce works wonderfully with paneer (Indian cheese), creating a delicious vegetarian alternative. You could also try it with chickpeas or a medley of vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach for a hearty plant-based meal. For meat lovers, consider using lamb or even shrimp for a luxurious seafood twist. I’ve personally experimented with adding a tiny pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) at the very end, which imparts an authentic, slightly bitter, and aromatic note that truly takes the flavor profile to the next level. Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own; that’s the joy of home cooking, after all! Think about adding a touch of smoked paprika for a deeper, earthier note, or a whisper of green cardamom for an even more complex aroma. Every small adjustment can lead to a uniquely personal dish that you’ll be proud to share.

So, now it’s your turn! I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and give this incredible recipe a try. I promise you won’t regret it. There’s something immensely satisfying about creating such a beloved dish from scratch, knowing exactly what goes into it, and then savoring every bite of your homemade masterpiece. Once you’ve made it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you stick to the recipe, or did you put your own unique spin on it? What were your favorite serving suggestions? Please feel free to share your thoughts, tips, and even photos of your culinary creation in the comments section below. Your feedback and personal touches not only inspire me but also help build a wonderful community of food lovers who are always eager to discover new ways to enjoy delicious meals. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to see what amazing butter chicken you whip up!

Frequently Asked Questions about Butter Chicken

What is butter chicken?

Butter chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is a classic Indian dish originating from Delhi. It features tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich, creamy, and mildly spiced tomato-based sauce, often enhanced with butter, cream, and a blend of aromatic spices like garam masala.

Is butter chicken spicy?

Traditionally, butter chicken is known for its mild spice level, making it appealing to a wide range of palates. The heat typically comes from a blend of spices rather than overwhelming chili. However, the spice level can easily be adjusted to your personal preference by adding more or less chili powder/cayenne pepper.

Can I make butter chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! Butter chicken is one of those dishes that often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld and deepen. You can prepare the entire dish a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How do I store leftover butter chicken?

Store any leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it cools down completely before refrigerating. When reheating, do so thoroughly until piping hot.

Can I freeze butter chicken?

Yes, butter chicken freezes very well! Once cooled, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.

What do you eat with butter chicken?

Butter chicken is wonderfully versatile! Classic accompaniments include fluffy basmati rice, warm naan bread (plain, garlic, or butter), or roti. For lighter options, consider brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. A cooling side of raita (yogurt with cucumber and mint) or a simple green salad can also complement the richness of the dish beautifully.

Is butter chicken healthy?

While butter chicken is undeniably delicious, it is typically rich due to the butter and cream. Its healthiness depends on portion size and preparation. You can make healthier adjustments by using leaner chicken, reducing the amount of butter and cream, opting for low-fat dairy alternatives, or increasing the vegetable content.

Can I make butter chicken without cream?

Yes, you can! To reduce the dairy content or make it dairy-free, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk (full-fat for richness), cashew cream (made by blending soaked cashews with water), or even a plant-based unsweetened cooking cream alternative. These will alter the flavor slightly but still result in a delicious, creamy sauce.

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Transform your weeknight dinners into a culinary celebration with this quick and easy homemade Butter Chicken. Enjoy a rich, velvety sauce and succulent chicken, a restaurant-quality luxury made achievable in your own kitchen with minimal fuss.

Prep Time
45 Minutes

Cook Time
55 Minutes

Total Time
40 Minutes

Servings
6 servings

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

Instructions

1. Step 1
   For the chicken marinade: Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, combine chicken with 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp sweet paprika, ½ tsp curry powder, and 1 tbsp Greek yogurt. Mix well to coat all chicken pieces. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or for 2-4 hours (or even overnight) for best results.
2. Step 2
   For the gravy base: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt 1.5 tbsp of the divided butter with 3 tbsp vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion gently until soft, translucent, and lightly golden-brown (about 8-10 minutes).
3. Step 3
   Add 6 minced garlic cloves; sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
4. Step 4
   Stir in 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce. Add 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Step 5
   {‘@type’: ‘HowToStep’, ‘text’: “Cook the chicken: While the gravy simmers, in a separate pan, add the remaining 1.5 tbsp of butter. Over medium-high heat, sear the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer until nicely browned and slightly charred on the edges (3-5 minutes per side). Cook in batches if necessary; the chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage.”}
6. Step 6
   Add the seared chicken pieces directly into the pot with the simmering gravy. Stir gently to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer again and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the chicken to finish cooking and absorb all the incredible flavors of the gravy.
7. Step 7
   For the finishing touches: Stir in 2 cups heavy cream, which adds incredible richness and a luxurious mouthfeel. Taste the gravy and adjust the salt if needed to make all the flavors pop.
8. Step 8
   Let the butter chicken simmer for just another 2-3 minutes on low heat, uncovered, allowing all the finishing touches to fully integrate and the gravy to become even more velvety.
9. Step 9
   {‘@type’: ‘HowToStep’, ‘text’: “To serve: Ladle your homemade butter chicken into serving bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro (optional, as not included in the main ingredient list) and serve piping hot with warm naan bread, fluffy basmati rice, or roti. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and satisfying flavors you’ve created!”}

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.