Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Butter chicken, or "murgh makhani," is a beloved dish that has captivated many taste buds around the world. It’s a creamy, spiced Indian dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners with family or indulgent weekend meals. Based on my experience making this recipe, it’s a wonderful combination of juicy chicken, rich flavors, and a buttery sauce that makes it a standout dish, whether you’re familiar with Indian cuisine or new to it. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner.

Why you’ll love this dish

When it comes to comfort food, butter chicken is truly in a league of its own. Here are a few reasons why this recipe deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation:

• Quick & Easy: This homemade version can be ready in under 40 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
• Kid-Approved: The creamy sauce and tender chicken are often a hit with kids, making it easier to introduce them to Indian flavors.
• Rich & Flavorful: Combining spices like garam masala with butter and cream results in a rich, satisfying dish that feels indulgent.
• Perfectly Versatile: Whether you’re serving it with naan or rice, there are endless ways to enjoy this dish.

"I never realized how easy it was to make butter chicken at home. This recipe turned out amazing, and my whole family loved it!"

Preparing Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

To get the most out of this recipe, it’s important to follow the cooking process step-by-step. Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect as you prepare this delightful meal:

1. Marinate the chicken to infuse flavor.
2. Cook the chicken until golden brown and tender.
3. Prepare a robust sauce base using classic ingredients.
4. Build the sauce and let the flavors merge deliciously.
5. Season to perfection and let it simmer.
6. Finish it off with a buttery touch.
7. Serve up your masterpiece with sides that complement the dish!

What you’ll need

Gather these essential ingredients before you begin your cooking journey:

• 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, for serving
• Steamed rice, for serving

Feel free to swap chicken thighs for breast if you prefer a leaner option, and use coconut cream for a dairy-free version!

Directions

Here’s how to bring your butter chicken to life:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

2. Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, around 8-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.

4. Build the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes.

5. Season and Simmer: Add heavy cream and stir well. Sprinkle in cayenne pepper, garam masala, and additional curry powder. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, thickening the sauce.

6. Finish with Butter: Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter before adding back the cooked chicken, letting it simmer for another few minutes.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve with naan or steamed rice for an unbelievably delightful meal.

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving butter chicken, creativity can elevate your presentation. Try:

• Plating: Serve the butter chicken in a shallow bowl, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of cream for a restaurant-style finish.
• Sides: Pair with warm naan for dipping and fluffy steamed rice to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce.
• Accompaniments: Add a side of cucumber raita or a simple salad to balance the richness.

Storage and reheating tips

To enjoy your butter chicken later, here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you want to store it longer, butter chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if it seems thick.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few tricks to ensure your butter chicken turns out perfectly every time:

• Marination Time: For deeper flavors, consider marinating the chicken for longer—up to 4 hours or even overnight in the fridge.
• Adjustment to Spice: If you’re wary of spice, start with less cayenne pepper and increase it to your taste.
• Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some exciting variations to consider:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with paneer or mixed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian butterfly chicken.
• Coconut Curry: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter, tropical twist.
• Different Proteins: Try using shrimp or tofu for a unique take on this classic dish.

Common questions

What is the prep time for this recipe?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes with marination, and cooking time adds another 20 to 25 minutes, leading to a total time of around 40 minutes.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs provide a juicier outcome, chicken breasts can certainly be used for a leaner option.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Opt for coconut milk and dairy-free butter substitutes to make this dish suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals or vegans.

Enjoy your cooking adventure and indulge in the incredible flavors of homemade butter chicken! Whether it’s a quick family dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

Print Recipe

A creamy, spiced Indian dish perfect for cozy dinners and indulgent weekends, combining juicy chicken with rich flavors and a buttery sauce.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• ½ teaspoon curry powder
• ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional)
• Naan bread, for serving
• Steamed rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt for at least 15 minutes.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, add minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Add tomato sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for a few minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and additional curry powder. Simmer for about 10 minutes until sauce thickens.
6. Finish with remaining tablespoon of butter and return cooked chicken to the skillet, simmer for a few more minutes.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with naan or rice.

Notes

For deeper flavors, marinate the chicken longer, and adjust spice levels to taste. Serve with warm naan and rice for best experience.

• Author: jessica-baker
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Indian
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: butter chicken, Indian cuisine, comfort food, easy recipes