Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Your Favorite Indian Takeout—Now in Just 30 Minutes
If you’re craving the rich, creamy taste of Indian butter chicken but short on time, this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is the perfect solution. In just 30 minutes, you’ll create a warm, comforting dish that’s bursting with bold spices, silky tomato-cream sauce, and tender, juicy chicken. It’s the ultimate weeknight curry—quick to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to satisfy your takeout cravings without leaving home.
Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a curry enthusiast, this streamlined version brings all the classic flavors with none of the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Butter Chicken
- ⏱️ Ready in 30 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights
- 🧄 Rich and aromatic – Packed with garlic, ginger, and warm spices
- 🍛 Restaurant-style flavor – But made right at home
- 🍽️ Comfort food classic – Creamy, filling, and crowd-pleasing
- 🌱 Simple ingredients – Easy to find in any kitchen
Ingredients (Serves 4)
To make this quick and easy butter chicken, you’ll need:
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or ghee
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Steamed basmati rice or naan, for serving
How to Make Quick & Easy Butter Chicken
🔹 Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
🔹 Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter, then add the chopped onion. Sauté until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
🔹 Step 3: Add the Spices
Sprinkle in the garam masala, cumin, turmeric, paprika, chili powder, and salt. Stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices and coat the onions.
🔹 Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the cream and optional sugar, then simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
🔹 Step 5: Add Back the Chicken
Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Simmer on low for 5–7 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is rich and creamy.
🔹 Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or basmati rice.
Perfect Pairings
- Garlic naan – For scooping every bit of that buttery sauce
- Cucumber raita – To cool and balance the spices
- Mango chutney – Adds a sweet-tangy kick
- Roasted cauliflower – A hearty veggie side
Tips & Variations
- Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free option
- Swap in paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version
- Add peas or spinach for extra veggies
- Make it spicier with a pinch of cayenne or a fresh chili
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water or cream
Final Thoughts
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken delivers restaurant-quality flavor in a fraction of the time. It’s creamy, aromatic, and deeply satisfying—perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or an impressive last-minute meal. Add it to your rotation and enjoy authentic Indian flavor, simplified. 🍛
