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 boneless chicken, cut into cubes; 1 cup yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt to taste; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon coriander powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Whip up a restaurant-quality Butter Chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen with this simple recipe! Creamy, flavorful, and packed with rich Indian spices, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests. Serve it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2025-12-10T15:38:24.672Z

This Butter Chicken recipe has become a family favorite, showcasing rich flavors and a creamy texture that transports you straight to India.

A Taste of India at Home

Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is a beloved Indian dish that perfectly balances rich creamy flavors with a hint of spice. This dish originated from the culinary traditions of North India, where it has been delighting taste buds for decades. By preparing this dish at home, you can experience the vibrant tastes and aromas of Indian cuisine without leaving your kitchen.

The magic of Butter Chicken lies in its marinated chicken that soaks up a symphony of flavors from yogurt and spices. When cooked, each tender bite is saturated with a savory blend that resonates with garlic, ginger, and spices. The rich, creamy sauce ensures that every piece of chicken is enveloped in a decadent coat of deliciousness, making it a favorite for many.

Perfect Pairings

When it comes to serving Butter Chicken, there are classic pairings that elevate the dining experience. Fluffy basmati rice is a must, as it efficiently absorbs the luscious sauce, allowing you to relish every drop. Additionally, warm naan or roti provides a delightful complement, offering a soft bread that perfectly enhances the flavors of the dish.

For a well-rounded meal, consider serving Butter Chicken alongside a fresh cucumber raita or a simple green salad. The coolness of raita can balance the spices from the dish, creating a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and refreshing.

Make it Your Own

Customization is one of the best aspects of preparing Butter Chicken at home. If you prefer a bit more heat, add additional chili powder or fresh green chilies to the marinade or sauce. On the other hand, for a milder version, simply reduce the spice levels to suit your palate. Experimenting with ingredients ensures you create a Butter Chicken that you and your loved ones will enjoy.

Feel free to experiment with the addition of vegetables, such as bell peppers or peas, to the sauce for added color and nutrition. This not only enhances the visual appeal of the dish but also adds a wonderful texture that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

1 lb boneless chicken, cut into cubes
1 cup yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt to taste

Butter Chicken Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon coriander powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Mix well and let the ingredients marinate for at least 1 hour for best results.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken cubes with yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Mix well and let marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the fridge.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add butter. Once melted, add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 10 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until softened. Stir in crushed tomatoes, cream, sugar, coriander powder, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Butter Chicken!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great meal prep option. Just ensure to let it cool completely before transferring to the fridge to prevent moisture buildup.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened, you can add a splash of water or cream to bring back its original creamy texture.

Variations and Alternatives

For those looking for a healthier option, swapping the heavy cream with coconut milk can offer a lighter and dairy-free alternative without compromising creaminess. This variation not only caters to various dietary preferences but also adds a unique twist to the dish.

Vegetarians can also enjoy a version of Butter Chicken by replacing chicken with firm tofu or paneer. The marinade and sauce work beautifully with these substitutes, providing a similar richness and depth of flavor that everyone will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different proteins?

Yes! This recipe works well with shrimp or paneer for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.