Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is one of the most popular Indian-inspired dishes loved worldwide. Its rich, creamy tomato-based sauce, tender marinated chicken, and warm spices create the perfect comfort food that’s both flavorful and satisfying. This recipe is quick and easy, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or when you want to impress guests with a homemade restaurant-style meal. Pair it with fluffy rice or soft naan for a truly indulgent experience.

Ingredients

For the Chicken & Marinade

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless 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

For the Butter Chicken Sauce

• 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
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• ½ teaspoon curry powder
• ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)

To Serve

• Steamed rice
• Naan bread

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken
   • In a bowl, mix chicken, salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt.
   • Coat chicken well and marinate for 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken
   • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add marinated chicken and cook 8–10 minutes until golden brown.
   • Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce Base
   • Lower heat to medium, add 1 tablespoon butter.
   • Add garlic and onion, sauté until fragrant and soft.
4. Build the Sauce
   • Stir in tomato sauce and sugar. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
   • Add chicken back into skillet and mix well.
   • Pour in heavy cream and stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Season and Simmer
   • Add cayenne (optional), garam masala, curry powder, black pepper, and salt to taste.
   • Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.
6. Finish with Butter
   • Stir in remaining butter for a silky finish.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy
   • Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve immediately with steamed rice, basmati rice, or warm naan.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations

• Lighter Version: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk to reduce calories while keeping the creaminess.
• Spicy Butter Chicken: Add extra cayenne pepper, red chili flakes, or chopped fresh chilies to increase heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with paneer, tofu, or cauliflower for a plant-based alternative.
• Vegan Butter Chicken: Use coconut cream and dairy-free butter to make it fully vegan.
• Nutty Twist: Blend in cashew paste or almond butter to create a richer, slightly nutty sauce.
• Tomato-Free Version: Use roasted red peppers blended with vegetable broth instead of tomato sauce for a unique flavor.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh cilantro or mint at the end for a fragrant, fresh finish.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
   Yes, chicken breast works, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful.
2. How do I make butter chicken spicier?
   Add extra cayenne pepper, chili powder, or chopped fresh chilies while cooking.
3. Can I prepare butter chicken ahead of time?
   Yes, it tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
4. What rice pairs best with butter chicken?
   Basmati rice is traditional, but jasmine rice or even brown rice works.
5. Can butter chicken be frozen?
   Yes, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
6. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Absolutely. Use coconut cream and vegan butter instead of heavy cream and regular butter.
7. How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
   Simmer longer to reduce the sauce or add a spoonful of cashew paste.
8. Can I use store-bought tomato sauce?
   Yes, canned tomato sauce works perfectly.
9. What’s the difference between butter chicken and chicken tikka masala?
   Butter chicken is creamier and milder, while chicken tikka masala has a tangier, spicier sauce.
10. Can I cook butter chicken in a slow cooker?
    Yes, marinate the chicken and cook everything on low for 4–6 hours.

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is the perfect balance of creamy, flavorful, and comforting. It’s simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for special occasions. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or planning to wow your guests, this dish will become a staple in your kitchen. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and warm spices, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

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