Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
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; 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

kate

Update : February 26, 2026

A delicious plate of homemade butter chicken served with rice and naan

why make this recipe

Butter chicken is a popular dish that many people love for its rich and creamy flavor. This quick and easy version allows you to enjoy this classic Indian dish without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal and can be served with naan bread and steamed rice. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry.

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 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. 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 the butter chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley on top. Pair it with warm naan bread for dipping and some steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce. This makes a complete meal that is satisfying and comforting.

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. You can also freeze the butter chicken for up to a month. When reheating, make sure to warm it thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen up the sauce if needed.

tips to make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for longer than 15 minutes if you have time.
Adjust the cayenne pepper to your taste for spice; leave it out for a milder dish.
Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor in your sauce.

variation

You can make this recipe vegetarian by using paneer or chickpeas instead of chicken. Simply follow the same steps, adjusting cooking times as necessary.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs are usually more tender and flavorful.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free naan and check that your spices and sauces are also gluten-free.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version or use half-and-half for a lighter option.