Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp cumin; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe brings the rich, creamy taste of classic Indian cuisine right to your kitchen without the fuss. Tender chicken simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices makes for a hearty meal that pairs perfectly with fluffy rice or warm naan. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2025-10-23T04:17:56.918Z

This dish has been a family favorite for many years.

The Origins of Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken, or 'Murgh Makhani,' is a beloved dish that hails from North India. Created in the 1950s at the Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi, it was an innovative way to use leftover tandoori chicken. The dish quickly became popular for its rich flavor and creamy texture, making its way to dining tables around the world. With its roots in culinary creativity, Butter Chicken showcases the art of blending spices typically found in Indian cuisine.

Traditionally, Butter Chicken is made with marinated chicken cooked in a tandoor, which gives it a unique smoky flavor. However, this quick and easy recipe adapts the classic method for home cooks, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this comforting dish without needing specialized equipment. The process emphasizes a straightforward approach while retaining the dish's signature taste.

Pairing Suggestions

To enhance your Butter Chicken experience, consider serving it with aromatic basmati rice. The fluffy texture of the rice perfectly absorbs the rich, spicy sauce, creating a harmonious balance on your plate. You can also complement the meal with warm naan bread, ideal for scooping up the thick sauce and tender chicken pieces.

If you're looking to add some freshness to the meal, a side of cucumber raita is an excellent choice. This yogurt-based dish can help cool down the spices, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the Butter Chicken. For a more substantial meal, you might also include a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil.

Customizing Your Butter Chicken

While this recipe is delicious as is, it also offers room for personalization. Adjust the spice levels to your preference by adding more or less garam masala and cumin. For a spicier version, you could introduce a pinch of red chili powder or diced green chilies to the sauce.

If you're looking to add more depth to the flavors, consider incorporating vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach. These can be added along with the chicken to cook down, enhancing both nutrition and taste. Additionally, for those who prefer a vegetarian option, substituting chicken with paneer or chickpeas will yield equally delightful results.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
2 tbsp butter
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp cumin
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process.

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Onion, Garlic, and Ginger

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, and sauté until translucent. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.

Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.

Make the Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, garam masala, and cumin. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes.

Finish with Cream

Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, adding salt to taste.

Once cooked, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.

Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken

To ensure your Butter Chicken is perfectly creamy, always start with heavy cream. This will give the sauce a luscious texture while balancing the acidity of the tomatoes. If you want to lighten the dish, you can substitute part of the heavy cream with coconut milk for a unique flavor twist.

Don't rush the cooking process; allow each ingredient to develop its flavors. Sauté the onions until they are beautifully caramelized, and let the spices bloom in the oil. This step is crucial as it builds the foundational taste of your Butter Chicken.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently to prevent the cream from curdling. A stovetop method on low heat is ideal, as it allows for even warming without compromising texture.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing the Butter Chicken. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation can elevate your dining experience. Serve your Butter Chicken in a wide, shallow bowl for an inviting look, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro. A sprinkle of chili powder or a swish of cream on top can add an appealing aesthetic touch to your dish.

To impress your guests, consider pairing the Butter Chicken with a well-selected wine. A chilled Chardonnay or a lightly spiced Riesling complements the flavors beautifully, making for a sophisticated dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with fish or paneer for a vegetarian option.