Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup tomato puree; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ginger, minced; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Whip up a creamy, rich butter chicken in no time with this simple recipe. Featuring tender chicken simmered in a luscious tomato and butter sauce, this comforting dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve it over fluffy rice or with warm naan for a delightful experience that the whole family will love.

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2025-11-22T22:13:41.783Z

This homemade butter chicken recipe is a family favorite that combines rich flavors with simplicity.

A Flavorful Journey

Butter chicken, known as 'Murgh Makhani' in India, is a dish that has gained immense popularity across the globe. The combination of tender chicken pieces simmered in a creamy tomato sauce makes it a favorite for many. This dish brings together a fusion of spices that not only enhances the flavor but also fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. Each bite of butter chicken unleashes a tender, juicy texture that pairs excellently with rice or naan.

The origin of butter chicken can be traced back to the 1950s in Delhi, where chefs at the Moti Mahal restaurant created this delightful dish using leftover chicken and a mix of spices. Over the years, it has evolved into various versions, each adding its unique spin. This recipe stays true to the traditional method while making it accessible for home cooks. In just a short time, you can recreate a culinary experience that reflects the vibrant culture of Indian cuisine.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Butter chicken is a versatile dish suited for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special event, or just looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe delivers. The creamy texture and rich flavors invite everyone to come together, making it a wonderful option for family gatherings or intimate dinners. Pair it with garlic naan or basmati rice, and you have a complete meal that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare.

It's also an excellent dish for meal prepping. You can make a larger batch on the weekend, portion it out, and have ready-to-eat meals throughout the week. Just reheat and serve with your favorite sides, and you're all set for a week of delicious dinners. Plus, the leftovers taste fantastic, allowing the flavors to meld together even more with time.

Ingredients

For Butter Chicken

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup tomato puree
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup butter
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, minced
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Serve with rice or naan.

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides.

Make the Sauce

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger to the pan. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Stir in the tomato puree and cook for another 5 minutes.

Finish the Dish

Stir in the cream, garam masala, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your meal!

Tips for the Best Butter Chicken

To elevate the flavor of your butter chicken, consider marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices for a few hours before cooking. This process will tenderize the meat and infuse it with a deeper, richer flavor. You can also experiment with adding vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach to create a more balanced dish. Just be mindful to add them at the right time in the cooking process to ensure they maintain their texture.

Another tip is to use high-quality ingredients for the best results. Opt for fresh spices rather than pre-ground ones to enhance the dish's aroma and taste. Also, avoid using low-fat cream; the richness of heavy cream is what makes this dish truly decadent. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, you could try coconut cream, which provides a unique flavor profile while keeping the creaminess intact.

Serving Suggestions

When serving butter chicken, the possibilities are endless. While a classic choice is fluffy white rice, you can also serve it with flavored rice such as saffron or lemon rice for an added twist. Naan bread, either plain or garlic-infused, is perfect for scooping up the sauce and chicken, providing a delightful textural contrast and a satisfying way to enjoy every bit of the dish.

For a refreshing balance to the richness of butter chicken, serve it alongside a simple salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a drizzle of lemon juice. This freshness will cut through the creaminess of the dish and enhance your dining experience. Don’t forget to have some mango chutney or pickles on the side, as these can elevate the flavors even higher, giving you a true taste of Indian cuisine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can use thigh meat or even tofu for a vegetarian option.