Make This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe Today!

Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe – are you ready to transform your weeknight dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience? I know many of us secretly crave that velvety, luscious, and deeply satisfying butter chicken from our favorite Indian restaurant, but often shy away from making it at home, fearing it’s too complicated or time-consuming. Well, I’m absolutely thrilled to tell you that those days are officially over! This iconic dish, known as Murgh Makhani, traces its delectable origins back to Delhi in the 1950s, charming its way into hearts and homes worldwide with its exquisite balance of creamy tomato sauce, tender marinated chicken, and fragrant, aromatic spices.

What truly makes butter chicken a perennial favorite is its incredible comforting warmth, the perfect blend of sweet and savory notes, and its utterly irresistible, silken texture. It’s a dish that embodies indulgence and celebration. Traditionally, it might involve multiple steps and marinades, but I firmly believe that such a beloved classic should also be accessible to every home cook, even on the busiest of evenings. That’s precisely why I’ve meticulously crafted a streamlined approach that brings all that authentic, restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen, without any of the fuss or long waits.

You’re about to discover how simple it can be to whip up a truly spectacular meal.

My goal is to empower you to create a truly spectacular meal with our

Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

that will not only impress your family and friends but will also prove that gourmet taste doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Get ready to savor the magic!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Marinade:
  • 600-700 grams (approximately 1.3 – 1.5 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast, cut into 1-inch cubes. I personally prefer thighs for their tenderness and juiciness, but breast works wonderfully too, just be careful not to overcook it! This is the foundation of our Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe.
  • 1/2 cup plain full-fat yogurt. This is key for tenderizing the chicken, adding a slight tang, and creating a rich base for the marinade to cling to.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger-garlic paste. You can certainly use store-bought, but for the most vibrant flavor, I always recommend freshly ground ginger and garlic. It really makes a difference!
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference; use Kashmiri chili powder for brilliant color without too much heat, or a hotter variety if you like a kick!).
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder. Not just for color, turmeric also adds an earthy warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala. This aromatic spice blend is a must-have for authentic Indian flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon salt.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice. A little acidity helps to break down the chicken fibers, making it extra tender, and brightens all the flavors in the marinade.
• For the Butter Chicken Sauce:
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter. This is butter chicken after all, so don’t skimp on this essential ingredient! It contributes significantly to the richness and luxurious texture.
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or ghee). A little oil helps to prevent the butter from burning at higher temperatures and ensures a smooth start to our sauce.
  • 1 large yellow onion, very finely chopped or pureed. The finer you chop or puree the onion, the smoother your final sauce will be. I often use a food processor for this to achieve an almost paste-like consistency.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger-garlic paste. Another round of this aromatic powerhouse for the sauce base.
  • 1 green chili, slit lengthwise (optional, for an extra layer of subtle heat if you enjoy it).
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (again, Kashmiri chili powder is excellent for achieving that iconic red-orange color without overwhelming the dish with spice).
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander. A fragrant, citrusy spice that is fundamental in Indian cooking.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin. Adds depth and a warm, earthy note.
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder.
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala. We’ll add this again towards the end to boost the aromatics.
  • 1 cup (240g) tomato puree or crushed tomatoes. High-quality canned crushed tomatoes work beautifully for consistency and convenience, or you can blanch, peel, and puree fresh ripe tomatoes for a slightly brighter flavor.
  • 1/4 cup cashews, soaked in warm water for at least 15-20 minutes, then drained. This secret ingredient creates an incredibly creamy, velvety texture in the sauce, allowing us to achieve richness without needing excessive heavy cream.
  • 1/2 cup water or chicken broth, plus more as needed. This helps to thin the sauce to the desired consistency.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a slightly lighter version). This is where a good portion of the magic happens, giving the sauce its signature luxurious richness and beautiful pale orange hue.
  • 1 tablespoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi), gently crushed between your palms just before adding. This is absolutely essential for authentic butter chicken flavor; do not skip it! It adds a unique, slightly bitter, and wonderfully aromatic note that defines the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (or to taste). A small amount of sugar is crucial for balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and enhancing the overall sweetness and depth of the sauce.
  • Salt to taste.
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish. For a final flourish of freshness and color.

Marinating the Chicken: The First Step to Flavor Perfection

1. First things first, let’s get our chicken ready for its flavor bath! In a large mixing bowl, combine your cubed chicken (whether thighs or breast, both are fantastic here) with all the specified marinade ingredients. This includes the plain full-fat yogurt, the fragrant ginger-garlic paste, vibrant red chili powder, earthy turmeric powder, aromatic garam masala, a good pinch of salt, and the bright, zesty lemon juice.
2. Using your clean hands (or a sturdy spoon if you prefer, but I find hands ensure the best coverage!), mix everything thoroughly until each and every piece of chicken is completely coated and glistening with the rich, colorful marinade. This step is absolutely crucial for developing deep, complex flavors and ensuring your chicken cooks up incredibly tender and juicy in the finished dish. Take your time here; even distribution is key.
3. Cover the bowl securely with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you genuinely have the luxury of time, I cannot recommend highly enough marinating for 2-4 hours, or even better, overnight (up to 12-18 hours). The longer it marinates, the more profoundly flavorful and exquisitely tender your chicken will become. For a truly amazing Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe when time is a constraint, a minimum of 30 minutes is perfectly acceptable and will still yield delicious results, but if you can plan ahead, please do!

Cooking the Marinated Chicken: Building the Flavor Base

4. Once your chicken has happily soaked up all those wonderful marinade flavors, it’s time to cook it. You have a couple of excellent options here, depending on your preference and available equipment:
   • Option A (My preferred method for speed, flavor development, and those delicious charred bits): Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil (or a touch of ghee) in a large, heavy-bottomed pan or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. You want it quite hot, but not smoking. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan in a single layer. It’s incredibly important not to overcrowd the pan, as this will steam the chicken instead of searing it. You will likely need to do this in two or even three batches to ensure proper browning.
   • Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, allowing it to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust and slight char. The chicken doesn’t need to be cooked through completely at this stage; we’re primarily focused on building those fantastic layers of flavor and texture. Remove the seared chicken from the pan and set it aside on a clean plate. Don’t worry about any flavorful bits or fond stuck to the bottom of the pan; these are precious flavor bombs that will effortlessly release into our sauce later, adding immense depth!
   • Option B (A slightly healthier and perhaps less fuss alternative): You can also bake the chicken if you prefer. Preheat your oven to a robust 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has developed a slight caramelization on the edges. Once cooked, remove from the oven and set aside.

Crafting the Rich and Creamy Butter Chicken Sauce: The Heart of the Dish

6. Now, we move on to the soul of our dish – the unbelievably rich and creamy butter chicken sauce! This is where the magic truly happens for our Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe. In the same pan you used to cook the chicken (if you used Option A, all those browned bits are a bonus!), or a clean, large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven if you opted for baking the chicken, melt 3 generous tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil alongside the butter; this helps to raise the butter’s smoke point and prevents it from burning too quickly.
7. Once the butter is melted, shimmering, and gently sizzling, add your very finely chopped or pureed onion. Sauté the onion diligently for approximately 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking. Your goal here is for the onion to become beautifully translucent and begin to caramelize to a lovely light golden-brown color. This slow, patient cooking of the onion is absolutely crucial for creating a sweet, deep, and nuanced base flavor, as well as contributing significantly to the silky-smooth texture of the final sauce. Please, do not rush this step!
8. Next, add the second round of 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger-garlic paste and the optional slit green chili (if you’re using it for that extra, subtle warmth). Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the pungent, raw smell of the ginger and garlic dissipates and the aroma becomes wonderfully fragrant and mellow. The scent filling your kitchen at this point will be absolutely incredible!
9. Reduce the heat to low. Now it’s time to introduce the ground spices for the sauce: add the red chili powder, ground coriander, ground cumin, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder. Stir these spices continuously for just 30 seconds to 1 minute. It is vital to be careful not to burn the spices here; they cook very quickly and can turn bitter if overcooked. Keeping the heat low is extremely important to gently bloom the spices and release their full aroma without scorching them.
10. Pour in the tomato puree or crushed tomatoes. Stir everything very well, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan to incorporate all those beautiful flavors together. At this stage, add the 1 teaspoon of sugar; it plays an important role in balancing the natural acidity of the tomatoes and enhancing their inherent sweetness, creating a more harmonious flavor profile. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce visibly thickens and the oil starts to separate and come to the surface around the edges. This indicates that the tomatoes are well-cooked, and their flavors have truly deepened and mellowed.
11. While your tomato sauce is happily simmering away, let’s prepare our magical cashew paste. Drain your soaked cashews thoroughly and transfer them to a small blender or food processor. Add about 2-3 tablespoons of fresh water (you might need a tiny bit more) and blend until you achieve a perfectly smooth, utterly creamy paste. You’ll likely need to scrape down the sides of your blender a few times to ensure there are absolutely no lumps left. A super smooth cashew paste is the secret for a truly silky, luxurious sauce consistency!
12. Once your tomato base is ready, thickened, and aromatic, stir in the prepared cashew paste. Add 1/2 cup of water or chicken broth, stirring vigorously to combine everything smoothly. Bring the sauce back to a gentle simmer and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This allows the cashew paste to fully incorporate, contributing its richness and thickening the sauce beautifully.

Combining and Finishing: Bringing it All Together for the Best Butter Chicken

13. Now for the moment we’ve been building towards! Carefully add the pre-cooked chicken pieces (from step 5) back into the wonderfully fragrant, simmering sauce. Stir everything gently to ensure that every single piece of tender chicken is thoroughly coated with the rich, aromatic sauce.
14. Cover the pan and let it simmer on a very low heat for an additional 10-15 minutes. This crucial step allows the chicken to finish cooking through perfectly (if it wasn’t already) and, more importantly, to absorb all the magnificent flavors of the sauce. If you used chicken breast, keep a close eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook and become dry; thighs are much more forgiving here.
15. At this point, we’re almost at the finish line for our glorious Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe! Stir in the heavy cream. I personally love adding the cream towards the end of the cooking process; it helps maintain its fresh, rich flavor and reduces the risk of it curdling, ensuring that beautiful, smooth finish.
16. Finally, and this is truly non-negotiable for authenticity, sprinkle in the crushed dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi) and the remaining 1 teaspoon of garam masala. Give everything a gentle stir to evenly distribute these final, powerful aromatics. The kasoori methi is truly transformative, adding that distinct, slightly earthy, and wonderfully aromatic quality that is the unmistakable hallmark of authentic butter chicken. It’s the secret ingredient that elevates the dish from good to absolutely phenomenal.
17. Taste the sauce and adjust for salt and sugar as needed. Sometimes, a tiny bit more sugar can make a profound difference in perfectly balancing the complex flavors of the tomatoes and spices. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can easily add a splash more hot water or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. If you desire an even smoother sauce (without the chicken in it!), you can carefully use an immersion blender at this stage, or blend a portion of the sauce before adding the chicken back in. Just be mindful not to over-blend the chicken itself.

Serving Your Delicious Homemade Butter Chicken

18. Congratulations! Your incredible Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is now ready to be savored! Garnish generously with a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness.
19. Serve this piping hot masterpiece with fluffy basmati rice, warm and pillowy naan bread, or soft roti for a truly complete and satisfying Indian feast. I absolutely adore dipping warm, buttered naan directly into that creamy, dreamy, perfectly spiced sauce – it’s an experience in itself! This dish is perfectly suited for a comforting weeknight family dinner or impressive enough to wow your guests, and you’ll be genuinely amazed at how simple it is to create such an authentic-tasting, restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Enjoy every single glorious bite!

Conclusion:

Well, there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed through the tantalizing spices and rich, creamy textures of what I genuinely believe will become a staple in your kitchen. This isn’t just another dish; it’s an experience waiting to unfold, a culinary adventure that promises to delight your senses and comfort your soul. I truly hope you’re as excited to try it as I am to share it with you.

This particular rendition is truly a must-try because it masterfully balances authentic Indian flavors with a simplicity that makes it accessible to even the most novice home cook. Forget the lengthy lists of obscure ingredients or complex cooking methods; my goal was to bring you a recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. The rich, velvety sauce, infused with aromatic ginger, garlic, and a symphony of mild spices, perfectly coats tender pieces of chicken, creating a dish that is both sophisticated and incredibly satisfying. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can recreate that restaurant-quality taste right in your own home. It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights feel special and weekend gatherings truly memorable. Trust me when I say, once you taste this creamy, flavorful creation, you’ll understand exactly why it’s become such a beloved classic worldwide. It’s a dish that genuinely warms you from the inside out, offering a burst of flavor in every single bite.

Embrace the Versatility: Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations

Now that your kitchen is about to be filled with the most incredible aroma, let’s talk about how to make this meal an absolute showstopper. While the classic pairing is undeniably with fluffy basmati rice, allowing every grain to soak up that exquisite sauce, don’t feel limited! For a truly authentic experience, serve your magnificent butter chicken alongside warm, pillowy naan bread, perfect for scooping up every last drop of the luscious gravy. You could also offer a side of crisp paratha or even a simple roti.

Looking for something lighter? Consider serving it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor. A fresh cucumber raita or a simple green salad can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to personalize it to your taste.

Spice It Up or Tone It Down!

If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add an extra pinch of Kashmiri chili powder or a finely chopped green chili during the sautéing process. For a milder touch, simply reduce the amount of chili powder.

Vegetarian Delights

Making it vegetarian is incredibly easy! Simply swap the chicken for cubes of paneer (Indian cheese), firm tofu, or even chickpeas. These alternatives absorb the flavors beautifully and create an equally delightful meal. You could also experiment with adding some spinach, peas, or bell peppers to the sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking for an extra boost of vegetables and color.

Dairy-Free Alternatives

If you’re avoiding dairy, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a wonderfully creamy, slightly sweeter, and equally delicious result. The coconut milk adds a unique depth that some people even prefer! Garnish with a swirl of fresh cream or coconut milk, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and perhaps a squeeze of lime juice for an added zing that truly brightens the entire dish.

So, there’s truly nothing holding you back from diving in. This Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to create, to share, and to savor. I genuinely can’t wait for you to experience the magic of this dish firsthand. Please, when you make it, come back and tell me all about your experience in the comments below! Share your photos, your tweaks, and your triumphs. Did you add extra spice? Did you serve it with something unexpected? Your feedback and culinary adventures inspire me, and I love hearing how my recipes brighten your day. Happy cooking, and get ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying meals you’ll ever make at home!

Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Transform your weeknight dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this quick and easy homemade Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani). This streamlined recipe brings authentic, restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen, featuring tender marinated chicken in a rich, creamy tomato sauce with aromatic spices.

Prep Time
20 Minutes

Cook Time
45 Minutes

Total Time
35 Minutes

Servings
6 servings

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
• 1 teaspoon salt (for chicken marinade)
• 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 (for sauce, adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups heavy cream

Instructions

1. Step 1
   In a large bowl, combine chicken chunks with 1 teaspoon salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Step 2
   Heat 3 tablespoons vegetable oil in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken (cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding). Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and lightly charred. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
3. Step 3
   In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of the divided butter. Add diced onion and minced garlic cloves. Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the onion is translucent and softened.
4. Step 4
   Pour in the 15-ounce can of tomato sauce. Stir in 1 teaspoon sugar, the second 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste), and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
5. Step 5
   Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Step 6
   Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the 2 cups of heavy cream into the simmering sauce until well combined and smooth.
7. Step 7
   Return the cooked chicken to the sauce. Stir gently to coat all chicken pieces. Simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes, allowing the chicken to warm through and absorb the sauce flavors.
8. Step 8
   Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro (optional). Enjoy with basmati rice or naan bread.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.