Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Update : March 2, 2026

Delicious homemade butter chicken served with rice and garnished with cilantro

Why Make This Recipe

Butter Chicken is a favorite dish for many, adored for its rich flavors and creamy texture. This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen without spending hours cooking. It uses simple ingredients and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

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

Directions:

In a bowl, mix the chicken with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
Add the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and curry powder. Simmer for a few minutes.
In another pan, cook the marinated chicken until browned and cooked through.
Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir in the remaining butter. Simmer for a few more minutes.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.

How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Serve your Butter Chicken hot with soft naan bread and a side of steamed rice. This combination soaks up the delicious sauce and makes for a satisfying meal. Optionally, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor.

How to Store Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the Butter Chicken for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.

Tips to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Marinating the chicken for longer (up to 2 hours) can enhance the flavor.
Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer to reduce.

Variation

For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with paneer or mixed vegetables. Follow the same cooking method, and enjoy a delicious vegetarian Butter Chicken!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs tend to be juicier, making the dish richer in flavor.

2. Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut milk or half-and-half as a lighter alternative, but this may alter the taste slightly.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Butter Chicken can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving, making it a great meal-prep option.