Name: Delicious Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon sweet paprika; ½ teaspoon curry powder; 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 tablespoons butter, divided; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups heavy cream

Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is a culinary dream for many, a dish synonymous with comfort and exquisite flavor. I understand the longing for that perfectly balanced, creamy, and mildly spicy curry often found in your favorite Indian restaurant. Imagine achieving that same rich, aromatic experience right in your own kitchen, without the fuss or extensive time commitment.

Originating in the vibrant kitchens of Delhi, India, Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, has captivated palates worldwide with its rich history and irresistible taste. What makes this dish so universally adored? It’s the succulent pieces of chicken, often marinated and grilled, bathed in a luscious, velvety tomato-based sauce infused with fragrant spices and finished with a touch of cream and butter. It’s a symphony of sweet, savory, and subtly tangy notes that dances on your tongue, offering a warmth and satisfaction few other dishes can rival. This classic has earned its place as a beloved comfort food, enjoyed by families and food enthusiasts across the globe.

But often, the thought of preparing such a masterpiece at home can seem daunting. That’s where I come in! I’m thrilled to share my Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe that demystifies this classic, making it accessible even for busy weeknights. Prepare to impress yourself and your loved ones with a restaurant-quality meal, right from your own kitchen, that truly delivers on both authentic flavor and incredible simplicity. Get ready to embark on a delightful culinary journey that promises a delicious payoff with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs (approx. 680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes. I personally prefer thighs for their tenderness and juiciness, but breasts work beautifully too if that’s what you have on hand for this “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe.”
- 1/2 cup (120g) plain full-fat Greek yogurt. The acidity of the yogurt tenderizes the chicken beautifully and helps the spices adhere.
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated or minced very finely.
- 2 tablespoons fresh garlic, grated or minced very finely.
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander.
- 1/2 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (or paprika for less heat, plus a pinch of cayenne for color if desired). Kashmiri chili powder provides that iconic vibrant red color without excessive heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice.
For the Butter Chicken Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided (2 tablespoons for sautéing, 1 tablespoon for finishing). Butter is, of course, a star ingredient in our “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe!”
- 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil (like vegetable or canola oil).
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated or minced.
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, grated or minced.
- 1 (28-ounce / 794g) can crushed tomatoes or pureed fresh tomatoes (about 4-5 medium ripe tomatoes, peeled and pureed). I find crushed tomatoes give a good balance of texture and flavor.
- 1/2 cup (70g) raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 15 minutes, then drained. This is a game-changer for creaminess and richness, lending a beautiful texture to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin.
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander.
- 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (or paprika).
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional, but highly recommended for an authentic touch).
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream or half-and-half. This adds luxurious richness and mellows the spices.
- 1 tablespoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi), lightly crushed between your palms. This ingredient is non-negotiable for that distinct, restaurant-quality butter chicken flavor.
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, or to taste (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes).
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- 1/2 cup (120ml) water or low-sodium chicken broth, as needed for thinning the sauce.
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, finely chopped.
- A swirl of extra heavy cream, if desired.

Phase 1: Marinating the Chicken for Flavor and Tenderness

Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting your cubed chicken pieces very dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because excess moisture can prevent the marinade from properly adhering and can lead to steaming instead of searing later on. Transfer the dried chicken to a large mixing bowl.
Mix the Marinade: To the bowl with the chicken, add the plain full-fat Greek yogurt, grated ginger, minced garlic, ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, salt, and fresh lemon juice.
Combine Thoroughly: Using clean hands or a sturdy spoon, mix all the ingredients together until every single piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the fragrant, vibrant marinade. Ensure there are no dry spots. I really like to get my hands in there to ensure even distribution – it’s part of the joy of cooking this “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe!”
Marinate: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, I highly recommend marinating for 2 to 4 hours, or even overnight. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful your chicken will become, truly absorbing all those wonderful spices. This is key for a deeply flavorful butter chicken.

Phase 2: Crafting the Rich and Velvety Butter Chicken Sauce Base

Soak the Cashews: While the chicken is marinating, place the raw cashews in a small bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. This softens them significantly, making them incredibly easy to blend into a smooth, creamy paste for our luxurious sauce. Once softened, drain them well before use.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon of neutral cooking oil over medium heat. Once the butter is shimmering and fragrant, add the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté the onion for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until it softens, becomes translucent, and just begins to turn a lovely golden-brown. Do not rush this step, as properly caramelized onions form the sweet, aromatic base of our sauce for this “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe.”
Add Ginger and Garlic: To the softened onions, add the additional 1 tablespoon of grated ginger and 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the raw garlic smell dissipates and the aromatics become incredibly fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Introduce the Spices: Reduce the heat to low. Add the ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, and ground cardamom (if using) to the pot. Stir the spices continuously with the onion mixture for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. This allows the spices to bloom in the hot oil, releasing their full aromatic potential. You’ll notice an immediate fragrant burst – this is where the magic truly begins!
Incorporate Tomatoes and Cashews: Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes (or fresh pureed tomatoes). Add the drained, soaked cashews. Stir everything together thoroughly.
Simmer and Develop Flavors: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, the tomatoes to cook down, and the cashews to become even softer, ready for blending into a silky-smooth sauce.
Blend the Sauce: Carefully remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender directly in the pot, or by carefully transferring the mixture to a high-speed blender (working in batches if necessary), blend the sauce until it is completely smooth and velvety. Be extremely cautious when blending hot liquids – leave the vent open on a regular blender and cover it with a kitchen towel to allow steam to escape and prevent pressure buildup. My goal here is a perfectly smooth, luscious consistency, free of any onion or cashew chunks, which is absolutely essential for a luxurious “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe.”
Strain for Extra Smoothness (Optional but Recommended): For an extra-velvety, restaurant-quality sauce, push the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or chinois back into the clean pot, using the back of a ladle to extract all the liquid and flavor. Discard any fibrous solids that remain in the sieve. While this step is optional, I find it truly elevates the final texture to an unparalleled level of smoothness.

Phase 3: Cooking the Chicken and Combining with the Rich Sauce

Sear the Marinated Chicken: Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a tiny splash of oil (about 1 teaspoon, if needed – the chicken may release some oil from the marinade). Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook the chicken in two or three batches to get a good sear.
Cook the Chicken: Sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until it’s beautifully golden brown and lightly charred in places. The chicken does not need to be cooked through at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the sauce. This searing creates a wonderful crust and locks in the flavors, adding depth to our “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe.” Remove the seared chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Combine Chicken with Sauce: Place the pot with your smooth butter chicken sauce base back on the stove over medium-low heat. Add the seared chicken pieces to the sauce, stirring gently to coat them completely.
Simmer to Perfection: Bring the sauce and chicken to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and wonderfully tender, and the flavors have deeply melded. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pot. During this time, the chicken will absorb the incredible flavors of the sauce, becoming incredibly succulent.
Adjust Consistency and Seasoning: If the sauce appears too thick for your liking, you can thin it out gradually with a splash of water or low-sodium chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt, sugar, and pepper as needed. Sometimes a tiny bit more sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly, enhancing the overall richness.

Phase 4: Finishing Touches and Serving Your Homemade Butter Chicken

Add Cream and Remaining Butter: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the 1/2 cup of heavy cream (or half-and-half) and the remaining 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Stir gently until the cream is fully incorporated and the butter has melted, adding a final touch of luxurious richness and gloss to the sauce. This final addition of cream helps achieve that signature creamy texture of our “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe.”
Incorporate Fenugreek Leaves: Take the dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi) and crush them lightly between your palms before sprinkling them into the sauce. This simple action awakens their unique, slightly bitter, yet aromatic flavor, which is absolutely essential for authentic butter chicken. Stir well to distribute them throughout the dish.
Final Taste Test: Give your butter chicken one last taste. Does it need a touch more salt? A little more sugar to round out the flavors? Maybe a tiny pinch more garam masala for an extra aromatic kick? This is your chance to perfect it to your personal preference.
Garnish and Serve: Ladle the hot, rich, and creamy butter chicken into serving bowls. Garnish generously with freshly chopped cilantro. For an extra touch of elegance and richness, you can drizzle a small swirl of additional heavy cream over the top of each serving.
Enjoy! Your “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe” is now ready to be savored! Serve it immediately with warm garlic naan bread for scooping up every bit of that incredible sauce, or alongside fluffy basmati rice to soak up all the deliciousness. A simple side salad or a cooling raita (yogurt dip) can also complement this rich dish beautifully. I promise you, the effort is well worth it for this incredibly satisfying homemade version!

Conclusion:

So, as we bring our culinary journey to a close, I genuinely hope you’re feeling inspired and excited to roll up your sleeves and recreate this incredible dish in your own kitchen. I truly believe that what we’ve explored together isn’t just another meal; it’s an experience, a journey into the heart of comforting flavors that truly warm the soul. This isn’t merely about following steps; it’s about discovering the joy of creating something utterly delicious from scratch, something that will undoubtedly earn you rave reviews from anyone lucky enough to try it.

Why is this particular rendition a must-try, you ask? Well, it boils down to a few core elements that I’ve meticulously refined. Firstly, the unparalleled depth of flavor. We’ve meticulously layered aromatic spices, rich tomatoes, and creamy goodness to achieve that iconic, velvety sauce that butter chicken is renowned for. Each bite is a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and subtly spicy notes, perfectly balanced to create an explosion of taste that lingers delightfully on your palate. It’s a sauce so good, you’ll be tempted to eat it with a spoon – and honestly, I wouldn’t blame you!

Secondly, the remarkable tenderness of the chicken. Through careful marination and proper cooking techniques, we ensure that every piece of chicken breast or thigh is succulent, juicy, and falls apart effortlessly. This isn’t just good chicken; it’s chicken that melts in your mouth, absorbing all the glorious flavors of the sauce. This combination of tender chicken and a luscious, deeply flavored sauce is precisely what elevates this recipe from merely good to absolutely unforgettable. It’s the kind of dish that not only satisfies your hunger but truly makes you feel indulged and content.

But beyond the taste, there’s the sheer convenience and accessibility. I’ve specifically designed this to be a Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe. Forget the intimidating hours in the kitchen or the need for obscure ingredients; my goal was to demystify this classic, bringing its rich flavors within reach of every home cook, regardless of their experience level. We’ve streamlined the process without compromising an ounce of authenticity or flavor, ensuring that you can whip up this restaurant-quality meal on a weeknight, after a long day, or whenever a craving strikes. It’s truly a testament to the fact that extraordinary food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming to prepare. This recipe is your secret weapon for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to an exceptional meal without the fuss.

Now, let’s talk about how to truly make this experience your own. While it’s absolutely perfect as is, served alongside fluffy basmati rice – seriously, don’t skimp on the rice; it’s essential for soaking up every last drop of that glorious sauce – there are plenty of ways to customize your meal.

Serving Suggestions & Delicious Variations:

Classic Pairing: For the ultimate authentic experience, serve your butter chicken with warm, freshly made naan bread or chapati. The soft, chewy bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce and tender chicken. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness!
Healthier Option: If you’re looking to lighten things up, consider serving it with a side of quinoa or brown rice. You could also increase the vegetable content by gently folding in some blanched spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers towards the end of the cooking process.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit more heat, feel free to add an extra pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely minced green chili along with the ginger and garlic. Just remember to taste as you go!
Creaminess Control: While I advocate for a certain level of richness, if you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream slightly or substitute a portion of it with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a different kind of creaminess and a subtle tangy twist.
Vegetarian Alternative: This sauce base is so incredibly versatile! For a fantastic vegetarian meal, simply swap the chicken for paneer (Indian cheese), chickpeas, or even firm tofu. Cut them into cubes and gently simmer them in the sauce until heated through and well-coated.
Garnish Game: Beyond cilantro, a swirl of extra cream, a pinch of garam masala, or even some slivered almonds can add a beautiful finishing touch and extra texture.

So, what are you waiting for? This is your invitation to embark on a truly satisfying culinary adventure. Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create something truly special. I am genuinely confident that this recipe will not only meet but exceed your expectations, becoming a firm favorite in your weekly rotation. Once you’ve had the pleasure of preparing and enjoying this delightful dish, I would absolutely love to hear all about your experience! Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, your successes, any variations you tried, or even photos of your glorious creation in the comments section below. Your feedback and stories inspire me and help our growing community of food lovers. Happy cooking, my friends!

Enjoy every single, delicious bite!