Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Savor the rich and creamy goodness of this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe. Perfectly seasoned chicken thighs simmer in a velvety sauce of tomatoes, butter, and fragrant spices, creating a comforting dish that's ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend feasts. Serve it with rice or naan for a delicious meal the whole family will love.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2025-12-02T11:30:58.692Z

This dish is not only simple to make but packed with flavor and comfort.

A Taste of India at Home

Butter chicken, or 'murgh makhani', is a beloved dish that hails from India. Over the years, it has crossed borders, delighting taste buds around the world with its rich flavors and comforting texture. This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe allows you to recreate the magic of Indian cuisine in your own kitchen, making it accessible for any home cook. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and aromatic spices ensures that each bite is a delightful experience.

The foundation of this recipe lies in balancing the spices; garam masala plays a central role, offering warmth and depth. The use of heavy cream adds an incredible richness, transforming the dish into a sumptuous feast. You'll find that the vibrant color and aroma of the sauce make it just as appealing visually as it is delicious. Perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family meal, this dish truly represents the heart of Indian culinary traditions.

Perfect Pairings

When it comes to serving butter chicken, you have plenty of delicious options. Traditionally, this dish is paired with basmati rice or naan bread, both of which are perfect for soaking up the rich, flavorful sauce. Basmati rice adds a delicate aroma that complements the spices beautifully, while naan provides a satisfying, chewy texture. Either option can elevate your meal, making every bite unforgettable.

For a complete dining experience, consider serving side dishes that add variety to your meal. Cucumber raita, a yogurt-based condiment, can help balance the heat and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the butter chicken. Additionally, roasted vegetables or a simple salad can provide a nice crunch and additional nutrition. These pairings ensure a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you'll need:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons garam masala
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your dish:

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Stir in the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onion becomes translucent.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the garam masala. Season with salt and pepper.

Finish with Cream

Reduce the heat and mix in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for 15 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Enjoy your homemade butter chicken!

Nutritional Benefits

Butter chicken is not only delicious but also provides several nutritional benefits, especially when made with wholesome ingredients. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. They also contain a variety of B vitamins that contribute to overall health and energy levels. The use of tomatoes in the sauce adds a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants.

The heavy cream contributes to the rich flavor, but it also provides healthy fats that can be beneficial in moderation. For a lighter version, consider substituting low-fat yogurt for some of the cream. This recipe can be a satisfying addition to your meal plan, providing both flavor and nutrition for a balanced diet.

Cooking with Kids

This butter chicken recipe can be a wonderful cooking activity to enjoy with kids. Kids can help with age-appropriate tasks such as stirring ingredients, measuring spices, or even assembling the plates before serving. Involving them in the kitchen can enhance their interest in cooking and teach them valuable skills that will last a lifetime.

While some steps may require adult supervision, the simplicity of this recipe makes it approachable for budding chefs. As you cook together, take the time to discuss the different spices and ingredients, their origins, and how they contribute to the dish's flavor profile. Cooking with family not only creates lasting memories but also encourages a healthy relationship with food.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may be less juicy.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day.