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: 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 4 tablespoons butter; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Steamed rice or warm naan bread; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Make weeknight dinners a breeze with this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe! Creamy, fragrant, and bursting with rich flavors, this dish combines tender chicken thighs simmered in a buttery tomato sauce, making it a delightful family favorite. Serve it over steamed rice or with warm naan for a complete meal that will impress your loved ones without the fuss.

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2025-12-02T10:09:09.290Z

This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

A Flavorful Tradition

Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved dish that originated in India and has gained recognition worldwide. Its roots trace back to the culinary traditions of Northern India, where chefs perfected the art of marinating chicken in yogurt and spices before simmering it in a creamy tomato sauce. This combination of flavors creates a rich and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual dinner or a festive celebration.

One of the aspects that makes butter chicken so appealing is its versatility. You can adjust the spices according to your family’s taste preferences, making it as mild or as spicy as you like. Additionally, the dish pairs wonderfully with various sides, including naan, rice, and salads, allowing you to customize your dining experience.

Easy Preparation

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe simplifies traditional cooking methods. With just a few straightforward steps, you can create a delicious meal in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The ingredients are easy to find and typically common in most kitchens, so you won’t have to worry about a long shopping list.

By using chicken thighs, the dish remains moist and tender, enhancing the overall flavor. Plus, the use of pantry staples like garlic, ginger, and spices means you can whip up this dish even at a moment's notice. You'll be amazed at how quickly you can serve a restaurant-quality meal right at home!

Nutritional Benefits

Butter chicken not only satisfies your appetite but also offers a variety of nutritional benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. When combined with the heart-healthy fats from butter and the vitamins in tomatoes, this dish provides a balanced meal that supports your well-being.

Pairing the butter chicken with steamed rice or whole-grain naan enhances the meal with complex carbohydrates, boosting energy levels. You can also add a side of vegetables or a fresh salad to incorporate more nutrients and fiber into your dinner, creating a wholesome and satisfying dining experience.

Ingredients

For the Butter Chicken

2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/2 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Steamed rice or warm naan bread
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepared before starting the recipe.

Cooking Steps

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Add the chicken thighs to the skillet and cook until they are browned on both sides.

Make the Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce, heavy cream, garam masala, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, cover, and let cook for about 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Finish the Dish

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Serve the butter chicken over steamed rice or with warm naan, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your homemade butter chicken!

Cooking Tips

To enhance the depth of flavors in your butter chicken, consider marinating the chicken thighs in yogurt and spices for a couple of hours or overnight. This not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with a rich aroma. If you're short on time, you can skip this step and still achieve a delicious result.

Feel free to customize the spice levels based on your family's preferences. If you enjoy a bit more heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the sauce. Conversely, if you prefer a milder dish, reducing the amount of garam masala will still yield a wonderfully aromatic meal.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to deepen with time, making it even more delicious the next day, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead for meal prep. Just ensure that it's cooled before placing it in the fridge.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat. You may want to add a splash of water or additional cream to maintain the sauce's consistency. Avoid microwaving it for extended periods as this can dry out the chicken and alter the creamy texture you desire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, but thighs are preferred for their tenderness and flavor.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.