Easy Butter Chicken Recipe – Perfect Creamy Dinner

Name: Easy Butter Chicken Recipe – Perfect Creamy Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs; ½ cup plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon chili powder; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking chicken); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for sauce); 2 garlic cloves, minced (for sauce); 1 tablespoon grated ginger (for sauce); 1 teaspoon garam masala (for sauce); ½ teaspoon cumin (for sauce); ½ teaspoon paprika (for sauce); 1 cup canned tomato sauce; ½ cup heavy cream; Chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish); Steamed rice or naan (for serving)

Posted on November 10, 2025

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Introduction

I’ll admit it—there was a time when making butter chicken at home felt completely intimidating. I thought it was one of those dishes best left to restaurant chefs with magical spice blends and secret techniques. But after one too many takeout orders (and one too many dented wallets), I decided to give it a try. And let me tell you—this recipe? It’s a game changer.

The first time I made it, my husband asked me if I had secretly ordered delivery. That’s how good it was. Creamy, rich, a little bit spicy, and bursting with flavor. The best part? It’s shockingly simple. If you’ve got chicken, a few spices, and some pantry basics, you’re already halfway there.

This butter chicken recipe has become a weeknight favorite in my house, and I hope it becomes one in yours too. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Okay, real talk—this butter chicken recipe is one of those dishes that feels fancy but is actually super easy. Here’s why I keep coming back to it:

Quick to Make: From start to finish, this takes about 30-40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights.
Incredible Flavor: The combination of warming spices, creamy tomato sauce, and tender chicken is unbeatable.
Customizable Heat Levels: You can make it mild for the kids or amp up the spice for heat-lovers—super versatile.
Restaurant-Worthy Results: You’ll impress everyone at your table with this dish, guaranteed.
One-Pan Wonder: No complicated steps or loads of dishes. Just one skillet and done.

Honestly, this butter chicken is a hug in food form. It’s cozy, satisfying, and makes your kitchen smell like heaven. Bonus: It’s excellent for leftovers (if you can manage to save some).

What Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a ton of fancy ingredients for this recipe. In fact, you probably already have most of it in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best because they stay juicy and tender. You can use chicken breasts if preferred, but thighs really shine here.
Yogurt: Plain yogurt acts as the base for the marinade. It helps tenderize the chicken and adds tangy flavor.
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh is best! These two are non-negotiable for that signature butter chicken taste.
Spices: You’ll need garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, and chili powder. If you don’t have garam masala, you can substitute with a mix of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
Butter: Unsalted butter is key for that creamy, rich sauce. Don’t skimp here!
Heavy Cream: This is what gives the sauce its luscious texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use coconut milk instead.
Canned Tomato Sauce: Or you can use fresh pureed tomatoes if you prefer. Just make sure they’re ripe and sweet.
Cilantro: Optional, but it adds a fresh pop of color and flavor to the finished dish.
Rice or Naan: For serving. Butter chicken is all about scooping up that sauce, so don’t skip this part!

Pro tip: I marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices the night before. It cuts down on prep time and makes the chicken even more flavorful.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a professional kitchen to make this recipe. Here’s what I use:

Large Skillet or Pan: A deep skillet works best for simmering the sauce and cooking the chicken evenly.
Mixing Bowls: For marinating the chicken and combining ingredients.
Knife & Cutting Board: For chopping the chicken and prepping the garlic and ginger.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision matters here, especially with the spices.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon: To stir the sauce and make sure it doesn’t stick.

Nothing fancy here—just the basics!

How to Make It: Step-by-Step

Alright, let’s dive into making this creamy butter chicken. I promise it’s easier than you think!

Marinate the Chicken (10 minutes, or overnight): In a bowl, mix ½ cup plain yogurt, 1 tablespoon garam masala, 1 teaspoon turmeric, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon chili powder, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tablespoon grated ginger. Add the chicken (1 lb / 450g) and coat it thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor.
Cook the Chicken (10 minutes): Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the Sauce (10 minutes): In the same skillet, melt another 2 tablespoons butter. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon grated ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in 1 teaspoon garam masala, ½ teaspoon cumin, and ½ teaspoon paprika. Add 1 cup canned tomato sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the Cream (5 minutes): Reduce the heat to low and stir in ½ cup heavy cream. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine & Serve (5 minutes): Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve over steamed rice or with warm naan.

That’s it—you’ve just made restaurant-worthy butter chicken at home!

My Best Tips & Techniques

Here’s everything I’ve learned from making this butter chicken more times than I can count:

Don’t Skip the Marinade: This step infuses the chicken with flavor and keeps it tender. Even 10 minutes makes a difference, but overnight is ideal.
Use Fresh Spices: If your spices have been sitting in the back of your pantry for years, they won’t pack the same punch. Fresh spices = maximum flavor.
Adjust the Heat: If you like it spicy, add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne. For milder butter chicken, stick to the recipe as written.
Sear the Chicken: Getting a good sear on the chicken adds depth to the flavor. Don’t rush this step!
Use Full-Fat Dairy: Butter and heavy cream are non-negotiable for that rich, velvety sauce.

Follow these tips, and you’ll nail butter chicken every time.

Ways to Mix It Up

Feeling creative? Here are some ways to put your own spin on this butter chicken recipe:

Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for cubed tofu or paneer. Both soak up the sauce beautifully.
Seafood Twist: Try using shrimp instead of chicken. Cook it for just 3-4 minutes in the sauce.
Extra Veggies: Add spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers to the sauce for a pop of color and nutrition.
Nutty Addition: Stir in a handful of toasted cashews for extra crunch and richness.
Spiced Up: Add extra ground coriander or cardamom for a deeper, aromatic flavor.

The possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment.

Serving Ideas & Storage

Butter chicken is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, and there are so many ways to serve it. Here are some ideas:

Serving Suggestions

Classic Pairing: Serve over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan bread.
Low-Carb Option: Pair with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Brunch Idea: Stuff into wraps with scrambled eggs for an Indian-inspired breakfast.
Party Style: Serve in small bowls with naan for dipping—perfect for appetizers!

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezer: Butter chicken freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Tip: Add a splash of water or cream while reheating to bring the sauce back to life.

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, they taste even better the next day!

Nutritional Info & Health Benefits

Here’s why I feel good about serving this butter chicken:

Per Serving	Amount
Calories	360
Protein	25g
Carbs	12g
Fat	24g
Fiber	3g

Health Highlights:

Rich in protein from chicken and yogurt
Contains healthy fats from butter and cream
Spices like turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties
A great source of vitamins and minerals, including iron and potassium

It’s indulgent, but it’s also packed with nutrients!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it—my easy butter chicken recipe! It’s creamy, flavorful, and honestly better than anything you’ll get from a restaurant (because it’s made with love in your own kitchen).

I hope you enjoy making this as much as I do. It’s the perfect recipe for impressing guests, treating your family, or just satisfying a craving for something comforting and delicious.

If you make it, please let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your version of butter chicken. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

A: Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine, but they may not be as juicy. I recommend cutting them into smaller pieces for even cooking.

Q: Can I make butter chicken dairy-free?

A: Yes! Replace the yogurt with coconut yogurt, the butter with vegan butter, and the cream with coconut milk. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Q: What can I serve with butter chicken?

A: Basmati rice and naan are classics, but you can also serve it with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even a simple green salad.

Q: How do I make it spicier?

A: Add extra chili powder, a pinch of cayenne, or even diced fresh chilies. Taste as you go to make sure it’s not too spicy for your liking.

Q: Can I make this in advance?

A: Definitely! Butter chicken tastes even better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently for best results.

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