Let’s be honest for a second. Butter chicken is one of those dishes that sounds complicated. Creamy sauce, warm spices, deep flavor… it feels like something you only order at a restaurant, right? Wrong. Very wrong.
This quick and easy homemade butter chicken is here to prove that you can get bold, comforting, restaurant-style flavor without marinating overnight, without fancy ingredients, and without losing your sanity. If you’ve got a skillet, some chicken, and about 30 minutes, you’re in business.
And yes, it tastes even better the next day. Dangerous info, I know. 😉
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Why This Recipe Is a Total Game-Changer
This version keeps all the cozy, creamy vibes of classic butter chicken but trims the effort way down. No tandoor. No obscure spices you’ll use once and forget. Just rich tomato-butter sauce, tender chicken, and that irresistible warmth that makes you go back for “just one more bite.”
Who needs takeout when your kitchen smells like this?
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything here is easy to find and forgiving if you tweak things a little.
Ingredients
- Olive oil or butter – for searing and flavor
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – thighs = extra juicy, just saying
- Salt & black pepper – always
- Garlic – minced
- Fresh ginger – grated (or paste if you’re in a rush)
- Butter – yes, more butter, it’s in the name
- Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes – smooth and rich
- Heavy cream – for that signature silky texture
- Garam masala – warm and cozy spice blend
- Paprika – mild heat and color
- Ground cumin – earthy depth
- Chili powder or cayenne (optional) – if you like a little kick
- Sugar or honey – just a touch to balance the tomatoes
- Fresh cilantro (optional) – for garnish
Note: Exact amounts live in the recipe card, but this list gives you the roadmap.
How to Make Quick Butter Chicken (No Stress, Promise)
This recipe moves fast, so have everything ready before you start. Trust me on this one.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin. Simple but effective. - Sear the chicken
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly golden on the outside. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet. Remove and set aside. - Build the flavor base
Lower the heat slightly. Add butter, then stir in the garlic and ginger. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Your kitchen should already smell incredible. - Create the sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce, then add garam masala, paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of sugar or honey. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. - Make it creamy
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. The sauce should turn silky and rich almost instantly. This is the moment you fall in love. - Return the chicken
Add the chicken back into the pan and simmer for another 5–7 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and coated in sauce. - Taste and adjust
Add more salt, spice, or cream if needed. This is your butter chicken—make it your way. - Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro if you’re into that. Serve hot.
Done. That’s it. You just made butter chicken at home. 🎉
Why You’ll Love This Butter Chicken
First, the texture. The chicken stays tender, juicy, and coated in sauce instead of swimming in it.
Second, the flavor balance. Creamy, slightly sweet, gently spiced, and deeply comforting. Nothing overwhelms anything else.
Third, the speed. From chopping to serving, this recipe fits into a weeknight without stress. That alone makes it a keeper.
Best Ways to Serve Butter Chicken
This dish shines with the right side.
Classic Pairings
- Basmati rice – fluffy and perfect for soaking up sauce
- Naan or flatbread – mandatory, IMO
- Jeera rice – if you want extra flavor
Lighter Options
- Cauliflower rice
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- Simple cucumber salad
I usually do rice and naan because choosing is hard.
Tips for the Best Homemade Butter Chicken
A few smart moves make a big difference.
- Use thighs if possible. They stay juicier than breasts.
- Don’t rush the sauce. Let the tomatoes simmer before adding cream.
- Add cream slowly. This keeps the sauce smooth.
- Taste as you go. Butter chicken is all about balance.
Also, don’t panic if the sauce looks thin at first. It thickens as it simmers.
Easy Variations You Can Try
This recipe plays well with tweaks.
Extra Creamy Butter Chicken
Add a little more butter and cream at the end. Not subtle, but very satisfying.
Spicy Butter Chicken
Increase chili powder or add cayenne. Just don’t go wild unless you mean it.
Dairy-Free Version
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Different flavor, still delicious.
Some people add onions at the start. I skip them because I prefer a smoother sauce. Personal preference.
Is Butter Chicken Healthy?
It’s comfort food, not a salad. But it’s also:
- High in protein
- Naturally gluten-free
- Easy to portion-control
You can lighten it up by using less butter or cream, but honestly? Sometimes comfort wins.
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
Butter chicken actually gets better after a night in the fridge.
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freezes beautifully for up to 2 months
- Reheat: Gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of water or cream
This makes it perfect for batch cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Boiling the sauce (low heat is key)
- Adding cream too early
- Overcooking the chicken
- Skipping seasoning adjustments
Butter chicken should taste rich, not flat.
Why This Recipe Always Wins
This quick and easy homemade butter chicken works because it respects your time and your taste buds. It gives you comfort, flavor, and flexibility without turning dinner into a project.
It’s the kind of recipe you make once, then suddenly everyone asks for it.
Final Thoughts: Skip Takeout Tonight
If you’ve been craving something warm, creamy, and deeply satisfying, this quick & easy homemade butter chicken is the answer. It’s approachable, forgiving, and ridiculously good for how simple it is.
So cancel the takeout order, grab a pan, and let butter and spices do their thing. Your future self will thank you. 🍛✨