Quick and Easy Butter Chicken

Name: Quick and Easy Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Tasty Creations

I absolutely love making quick and easy butter chicken on busy weeknights. This dish combines tender chicken pieces marinated in spices and cooked in a creamy, buttery sauce that’s a true delight. The flavors come together seamlessly, creating a comforting meal that's perfect over steaming rice or with warm naan. It takes just 30 minutes to whip up, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking for a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-16T14:54:18.766Z

When I first tried making butter chicken, I was amazed at how simple the process was. By marinating the chicken beforehand, I found that it absorbed the spices beautifully, resulting in rich flavors that burst with every bite. I also discovered that using cream and butter helps in balancing the spices, creating a lush, velvety sauce.

In my experience, letting the sauce simmer a bit longer enhances its depth, so don’t rush through that step! The aroma that fills the kitchen is part of the joy, and I find my family gathers around, eager for the first taste.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that comforts the soul
Spices that bring warmth and depth to the dish
Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights

Marinade Magic

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that infuses it with rich flavors and ensures tenderness. The yogurt not only contributes creaminess but also acts as a natural tenderizer, breaking down the chicken's fibers. For the best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but if time permits, extending this to 1 hour can elevate the taste significantly. You can also prepare the marinade the night before for a quick dinner fix the next day.

While garam masala is a blend of multiple spices, feel free to tailor it to your preferences. If you enjoy more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or adjusting the paprika, which can vary in heat depending on the brand. Experimenting with these spices can customize the dish to your personal taste while maintaining its authentic flavor profile.

Creating the Perfect Sauce

When you pour in the tomato puree, don’t rush the simmering process. Allowing it to cook for at least 10 minutes thickens the sauce and deepens the flavors. You'll know it's ready when the oil begins to separate slightly from the sauce’s surface, giving you a glossy finish. This visual cue indicates that the spices have melded beautifully with the tomatoes and the chicken is tender and flavorful.

If the sauce turns out thicker than you like, nothing to worry about! You can easily adjust the consistency by adding a little water or chicken stock as it simmers. This will also help distribute flavors more evenly and create a luscious sauce that clings to the chicken and rice, making every bite delightful.

Serving Suggestions

For serving, freshly chopped cilantro not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the butter chicken. If you want to add more texture, consider serving it alongside crispy papadums or a crisp salad to balance the dish’s richness. Alternatively, for a fusion twist, serve the butter chicken in soft tortillas for a flavorful wrap.

This dish pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, which can absorb the sauce perfectly. If you're short on time, consider using pre-cooked rice options. However, if you have an extra few minutes, cooking jasmine rice will add another layer of fragrance and complement the spices used in the butter chicken beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a scrumptious butter chicken!

Main Ingredients

1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to prepare everything ahead of time for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious butter chicken.

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with yogurt, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Mix well to coat the chicken and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, and cook until softened. Then add the marinated chicken and cook until it's browned on all sides.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the tomato puree and stir well. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.

Finish with Cream

Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.

Serve

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

Enjoy your homemade butter chicken!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of chili powder or fresh chilies to the spices. Adjust the cream according to your preferred sauce consistency. This dish pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or naan bread.

Make-Ahead Tips

Butter chicken can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

If you'd like to store it longer, consider freezing the cooked butter chicken. It freezes well for up to 3 months. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen. Thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture before reheating.

Dietary Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider swapping out heavy cream with coconut milk. This not only reduces calories but also lends a subtle sweetness and complexity to the dish that syncs well with the spices used. Just be cautious with the quantities; start with half the amount and adjust as needed.

For a vegetarian adaptation, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or paneer, which retains the dish's hearty feel while also absorbing the flavors of the marinade and sauce. If using paneer, add it towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming too soft.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the butter chicken a day ahead. Just reheat on the stove over low heat before serving.

→ What should I serve with butter chicken?

It’s best enjoyed with basmati rice, naan, or roti to soak up the delicious sauce.