Introduction
Craving a rich, creamy, and comforting dinner without spending hours in the kitchen? Look no further than Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken. Known in India as Murgh Makhani, this iconic dish is beloved worldwide for its velvety tomato-based sauce, tender chicken, and signature blend of spices.
According to Google Trends, “Butter Chicken” consistently ranks among the top 3 most searched Indian recipes globally, proving its popularity far beyond South Asia. Traditionally slow-cooked, this recipe is designed for busy home cooks—bringing you all the flavor in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients List
For 4 servings:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 cup tomato puree (passata)
- ¾ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
- ½ cup plain yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Substitutions:
- Use chicken thighs for more juiciness.
- Swap cream for evaporated milk or coconut cream.
- Add cashew paste for a richer, nutty flavor.
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
👉 Faster than most takeout delivery times!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sear until golden (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
💡 Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—this ensures the chicken browns nicely.
Step 2: Build the Sauce Base
In the same pan, melt remaining butter. Add onions, garlic, and ginger. Cook until soft and fragrant (4–5 minutes). Stir in garam masala, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and turmeric. Toasting spices unlocks their full aroma.
Step 3: Add Tomato & Simmer
Pour in tomato puree and cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. This step removes acidity and deepens flavor.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Stir in heavy cream (and yogurt if using). Return chicken to the pan and simmer for 7–8 minutes until cooked through and coated in sauce.
💡 Tip: Add a splash of water or broth if sauce gets too thick.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice, naan, or roti.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
Tips for Best Results
- Marinate chicken in yogurt + spices for at least 15 minutes if you have extra time.
- Use chicken thighs for richer flavor.
- Toast spices before adding tomato base.
- Adjust creaminess with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Healthier Alternatives
- Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
- Use lean chicken breast to reduce fat.
- Pair with cauliflower rice instead of basmati rice for a low-carb option.
- Add spinach or peas for extra nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Serve with steamed basmati rice and garlic naan.
- Family style: Pair with cucumber raita and papadum for a full Indian feast.
- Quick lunch: Use butter chicken as a filling for wraps or pita pockets.
✨ Personal tip: Double the recipe and freeze half—the flavors intensify beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Adding cream too early → it can split. Always add after tomato base has simmered.
- Not toasting spices → reduces depth of flavor.
- Overcooking chicken → makes it tough. Remove as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Skipping butter → the dish loses its signature richness.
Storing Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooled butter chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently with a splash of cream or water.
- Reheat: Simmer on low heat; avoid microwaving to prevent sauce separation.
Conclusion
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken brings restaurant-style flavor to your table in just 30 minutes. Rich, creamy, and packed with aromatic spices, it’s the perfect comfort food for any night of the week. Whether paired with fluffy rice, naan, or tucked into wraps, this recipe proves that authentic taste doesn’t need to be complicated. Try it tonight—you’ll never go back to store-bought jars!
FAQs
Q1: Can I make Butter Chicken without cream?
Yes, replace cream with coconut cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Q2: Is Butter Chicken spicy?
It’s mildly spiced but not overly hot. Adjust chili powder to taste.
Q3: Can I make it ahead of time?
Definitely—it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Q4: What’s the difference between Butter Chicken and Chicken Tikka Masala?
Butter Chicken is creamier and slightly sweeter, while Tikka Masala is spicier with a tangier tomato base.
Q5: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a delicious variation.
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