Print

Quick Butter Chicken Recipe Easy Homemade Better Than Restaurant Style

quick butter chicken recipe - featured image

A quick and easy butter chicken recipe that delivers rich, creamy, and flavorful Indian comfort food in under 30 minutes without long marinating times.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, freshly grated
  • 1 cup (240 ml) tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tbsp honey or sugar
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Set aside while you prep the sauce. (5 minutes)
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in your pan. Add chopped onions and cook until soft and golden, about 5-7 minutes, stirring often.
  3. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Stir in cumin, paprika, and turmeric powders. Toast spices gently in the butter and onion mixture for about 30 seconds.
  5. Pour in 1 cup of tomato puree, stirring well. Simmer for 5-8 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and deepens in color.
  6. Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the sauce, stirring to coat. Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a tablespoon of water if sauce thickens too much.
  7. Lower heat to low, stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1 tablespoon honey or sugar. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes without boiling. Adjust salt or spice as needed.
  8. Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped cilantro on top, and optionally squeeze lemon juice over the dish. Serve immediately with basmati rice or naan bread.

Notes

Do not rush sautéing onions; get them golden and soft for best flavor. Toast spices in butter to unlock aroma. Stir cream gently over low heat to prevent curdling. Keep lid on while cooking chicken to retain moisture. Adjust chili powder for desired spice level. For dairy-free, substitute cream with coconut milk and butter with dairy-free alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: quick butter chicken, easy butter chicken, homemade butter chicken, Indian comfort food, chicken recipe, creamy chicken curry