butter chicken recipe easy

The Best butter chicken recipe easy

Butter chicken is one of those recipes that just works every single time. It’s creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make that I find myself whipping it up at least once a week. My kids absolutely love it—even the picky one who usually turns up her nose at anything with “too many spices” will clean her plate without a single complaint. There’s something about the rich tomato sauce, the tender chicken, and that perfect balance of warmth from the garam masala that makes it feel like a special treat, even though it takes less than an hour to pull together.

What I really appreciate about this recipe is how versatile it is. It’s hearty enough for a cozy family dinner but still light enough that I don’t feel weighed down afterward. Plus, it’s packed with protein from the chicken and lycopene from the tomatoes, which makes me feel a little less guilty about the heavy cream. I’ve served it over rice, with naan, or even tucked into wraps for lunch the next day, and it never disappoints. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is actually foolproof, which is exactly the kind of recipe I rely on when life gets busy.

Easy Butter Chicken

4.8 from 1557 votes

A simplified version of the classic Indian butter chicken, featuring tender chicken in a creamy tomato-based sauce. This easy recipe delivers rich, aromatic flavors with minimal effort.

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Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time30 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time45 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Marinade

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp honey or sugar
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces with yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge).
2. 2 Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned but not fully cooked. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. 3 In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for 5 minutes until soft and golden. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1 minute until fragrant.
4. 4 Stir in tomato sauce, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. 5 Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and honey. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is creamy.
6. 6 Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan, rice, or roti.

🔧Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet or deep pan
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 12g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk. You can also use chicken breast instead of thighs, but thighs stay juicier. For extra flavor, add a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) at the end.

Butter chicken is one of those recipes that just works every time—simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress at a family gathering. The creamy, flavorful sauce pairs perfectly with rice or naan, and leftovers taste even better the next day. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hosting a crowd, this dish is always a reliable, crowd-pleasing choice.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Chicken

1. What is the best chicken to use for butter chicken?

The best chicken for butter chicken is boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicy and tender during cooking, unlike chicken breast which can dry out. However, you can use chicken breast if you prefer—just be careful not to overcook it.

2. Can I make butter chicken without cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, Greek yogurt, or cashew paste for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, blend soaked cashews with water to create a creamy texture. The flavor will differ slightly but still taste delicious.

3. How do I make the butter chicken sauce thicker?

If your sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce. Alternatively, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the sauce. Another option is to blend a handful of soaked cashews and add them to the sauce for thickness and richness.

4. Can I make butter chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! Butter chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

5. What can I serve with butter chicken?

Butter chicken pairs perfectly with basmati rice, naan, or roti. For a complete meal, serve it with cucumber raita, pickled onions, or a fresh salad. If you want extra veggies, try sautéed spinach, roasted cauliflower, or dal (lentil curry).