There are few dishes in the world as comforting and satisfying as a warm bowl of butter chicken. Known as “Murgh Makhani” in India, this creamy tomato-based curry has become one of the most popular dishes in Indian restaurants across the globe. But what if you could enjoy the same rich, flavorful taste at home – without spending hours in the kitchen? That’s exactly what this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe delivers. 🍛

Imagine tender chunks of chicken simmered in a silky, spiced tomato sauce enriched with butter and cream. Every bite is a perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and mildly spiced flavors that make butter chicken so irresistible. Unlike many complicated curry recipes, this version is designed to be simple, beginner-friendly, and ready in less than 40 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just craving comfort food, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

One of the best parts of making butter chicken at home is the ability to adjust it to your taste. Want it spicier? Add more chili powder. Prefer it creamier? Stir in extra cream or yogurt. Serve it with fluffy basmati rice and warm naan bread, and you’ll have a complete meal that tastes just like it came from your favorite Indian restaurant – only fresher and healthier. Keep reading to discover the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips that will make this homemade butter chicken your new weeknight favorite.

Ingredients for Quick & Easy Butter Chicken

To prepare a restaurant-style butter chicken at home, you’ll need a balance of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. Below is a detailed list of everything required for this recipe:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Boneless chicken breast or thighs	1.5 lbs (700 g)	Cut into bite-sized cubes
Greek yogurt	1/2 cup	For marinating the chicken
Lemon juice	2 tbsp	Adds tanginess to the marinade
Garlic cloves	4, minced	Fresh garlic gives stronger flavor
Fresh ginger	1 tbsp, grated	Essential for authentic taste
Butter	4 tbsp	Divided – for cooking and sauce
Onion	1 large, finely chopped	Base for the curry sauce
Tomato puree	1 1/2 cups	Smooth canned or fresh blended tomatoes
Heavy cream	1 cup	Makes the sauce creamy and rich
Garam masala	2 tsp	Classic Indian spice blend
Ground cumin	1 tsp	Adds warmth to the flavor
Ground coriander	1 tsp	Balances the spices
Chili powder	1 tsp (or to taste)	Adjust based on spice preference
Turmeric	1/2 tsp	Gives color and depth
Salt & pepper	To taste	Adjust as needed
Fresh cilantro	2 tbsp, chopped	For garnish

This ingredient list is designed to give you the authentic flavor of Indian butter chicken while keeping the process simple and approachable. The marinade (yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and spices) tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor, while the sauce (butter, onions, tomato puree, cream, and garam masala) creates the signature silky texture that makes this dish so beloved worldwide.

If you prefer a lighter version, you can swap heavy cream with coconut milk or half-and-half. For a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add fresh green chilies to the sauce. The flexibility of this recipe means you can adjust it to your personal preferences while still enjoying a restaurant-quality dish at home.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making butter chicken at home is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps to achieve a creamy, flavorful curry that rivals your favorite Indian restaurant:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until every piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor). This step ensures tender, juicy chicken packed with spices.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides (about 5–7 minutes). The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the sauce. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown. Stir in garlic, ginger, and the ground spices (garam masala, cumin, coriander, and chili powder). Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. This creates a rich, aromatic base for your curry.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Pour in the tomato puree and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and deepens in color. If the sauce is too acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavor.

Step 5: Add Cream and Chicken

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce turns silky and smooth. Return the partially cooked chicken pieces to the pan, coat them with the sauce, and let everything simmer for another 10–12 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the butter chicken for a burst of freshness. Serve hot with basmati rice, naan bread, or roti for a complete and satisfying meal. 🍛

Tips and Variations for the Perfect Butter Chicken

Butter chicken is a versatile dish that you can easily adjust to your taste and dietary preferences. Here are some helpful tips and variations to make your homemade version even better:

Make It Healthier

For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or half-and-half. This reduces calories while still giving you a creamy sauce with a slightly different flavor profile.

Adjust the Spice Level

If you prefer a mild curry, reduce the amount of chili powder. For extra heat, add cayenne pepper, fresh chili peppers, or a touch of hot paprika.

Marinate Overnight

While 30 minutes is enough for a quick dinner, marinating the chicken overnight in the refrigerator allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.

Use Chicken Thighs

Although chicken breast works well, boneless chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving during cooking, making them a great choice for butter chicken.

Add More Vegetables

To boost the nutrition, add peas, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce. This adds color, texture, and extra health benefits to your dish.

Meal Prep Friendly

Butter chicken keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months. Store it in airtight containers, and you’ll always have a delicious dinner ready to reheat.

Serving Suggestions for Butter Chicken

Butter chicken is rich, creamy, and full of flavor, which makes it the star of any meal. To create a complete dining experience, here are some delicious ways to serve it:

With Steamed Basmati Rice

The most traditional pairing for butter chicken is fluffy basmati rice. The long grains soak up the creamy sauce perfectly, creating a comforting and satisfying combination.

With Naan or Roti

Soft and pillowy naan bread or freshly made roti is ideal for scooping up every bit of the buttery tomato sauce. Garlic naan adds an extra burst of flavor.

Low-Carb Option

If you’re watching your carbs, serve butter chicken with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. These lighter alternatives keep the meal nutritious without losing any of the flavor.

With Fresh Salad

Balance the richness of the curry with a crisp cucumber-tomato salad or a simple green salad dressed with lemon juice. The freshness adds contrast to the creamy sauce.

As Part of an Indian Feast

Butter chicken can also be served alongside other Indian favorites such as vegetable samosas, dal (lentils), and saag paneer for a full feast experience.

Perfect for Leftovers

Leftover butter chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Reheat it gently and serve it in wraps, sandwiches, or even over baked potatoes for a quick twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make butter chicken ahead of time?

Yes! Butter chicken can be prepared a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and simply reheat on the stove before serving. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

Can I freeze homemade butter chicken?

Absolutely. Allow the curry to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

Both chicken breast and thighs work well, but thighs are juicier and more forgiving during cooking. If you prefer lean meat, go with chicken breast.

How do I make butter chicken spicier?

To increase the heat, add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh chopped green chilies. Adjust to your spice preference without affecting the creamy texture.

Can I make butter chicken dairy-free?

Yes! Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use oil instead of butter. This creates a rich and flavorful curry that’s completely dairy-free while still delicious.

What should I serve with butter chicken?

The classic sides are steamed basmati rice and naan bread, but it also pairs beautifully with roti, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.