There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a home-cooked meal, especially when it comes to a dish as rich and flavorful as Butter Chicken. After a long day, I often find myself craving this creamy delight that dances on the palate and warms the soul. One evening, after flipping through a few recipes and feeling overwhelmed, I decided to simplify things—transforming pantry staples into a luxurious meal that could easily rival my favorite Indian restaurant.
Imagine this: succulent chicken bathed in a velvety tomato sauce, infused with aromatic spices and garnished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Whether you prefer a mild flavor or want to spice things up a bit, this Easy Butter Chicken Recipe is adaptable to every taste. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or impressing friends. So, let’s dive into this culinary adventure that brings the magic of Indian flavors right to your kitchen!
Why is this Easy Butter Chicken Recipe a Must-Try?
Flavorful, this Easy Butter Chicken Recipe transforms humble ingredients into a luxurious dish that rivals any restaurant offering. Adaptable to various spice levels, it caters to both the mild and adventurous palate. Quick and Simple, it simplifies weekday cooking with minimal prep. Crowd-Pleasing, this dish is bound to impress family and friends alike—all while being a perfect companion to rice or naan. For more delightful ideas, check out the meal prep tips to enhance your culinary repertoire!
Easy Butter Chicken Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for a leaner option.
- Plain Yogurt – Tenderizes the chicken; buttermilk works well for a tangy twist.
- Garlic (minced) – Adds depth and aroma; fresh garlic is preferable for best results.
- Ginger (minced or finely grated) – Infuses warmth and flavor; frozen ginger is a convenient shortcut.
- Salt – Enhances all the flavors; kosher salt is best for precise seasoning.
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil & Ghee – For cooking; using half ghee with butter adds richness to the flavor.
- Onion (sliced or chopped) – Creates the base of the sauce; yellow or red onions are great choices.
- Crushed Tomatoes – The heart of the sauce; canned works best for convenience, fresh if in season.
- Garam Masala – Essential for authentic flavor; opt for a quality blend or create your own.
- Ground Cumin – Deepens the flavor profile; can be substituted with ground coriander.
- Turmeric – Adds vibrant color; optional if unavailable but enhances health benefits.
- Red Chili Powder – Adjusts the spice level; go for cayenne if you want extra heat.
- Thickened Cream – Provides the creaminess; use heavy cream or evaporated milk for a lighter version.
- Sugar – Balances the acidity from tomatoes; feel free to substitute with honey if desired.
- Kasoori Methi (dried fenugreek leaves) – Adds unique depth; can be omitted if not accessible.
This Easy Butter Chicken Recipe is crafted from pantry staples, ensuring you can indulge in comfort food without hassle.
How to Make Easy Butter Chicken
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Marinate the chicken by combining it with yogurt, minced garlic, ginger, spices, and salt in a large bowl. Let it sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Heat olive oil and ghee in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the marinated chicken in batches, cooking for about 3 minutes per side until they achieve a lovely golden color. Set the browned chicken aside.
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Sauté the sliced onions in the same skillet until they turn soft and translucent, about 6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute or until fragrant.
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Stir in the garam masala, ground cumin, turmeric, and red chili powder. Then, add the crushed tomatoes and salt, allowing the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens beautifully.
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Blend the sauce until smooth, adding a bit of water if necessary for your desired consistency.
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Return the smooth sauce to the skillet. Mix in the thickened cream, sugar, kasoori methi, and browned chicken. Simmer gently for an additional 8-10 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and fully coated in sauce.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately for that restaurant-quality finish!
Optional: Serve with warm garlic naan or fluffy basmati rice to soak up that creamy sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Easy Butter Chicken
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Spice Control: Adjust the red chili powder according to your taste. Start with a small amount and gradually increase to avoid overwhelming the dish.
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Marination Time: Don’t rush the marinating process! Allowing the chicken to soak in the yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor and tenderness significantly.
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Smooth Sauce: If your sauce becomes too thick while simmering, simply add a splash of water or more cream to achieve your desired consistency.
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Ingredient Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. For instance, using coconut milk instead of cream creates a dairy-free Easy Butter Chicken.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce a day in advance! This allows the flavors to develop further, making your Easy Butter Chicken even tastier on the day you serve it.
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Perfect Pairings: Remember that this dish shines alongside basmati rice or garlic naan—these accompaniments are not just delicious, but also perfect for soaking up that rich sauce!
What to Serve with Easy Butter Chicken?
The rich, creamy sauce of this dish invites a world of delightful pairings that elevate your meal experience.
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Fluffy Basmati Rice: This classic pairing absorbs the luxurious sauce, allowing every bite to be a comforting embrace of flavor.
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Garlic Naan: A perfect option for scooping up that velvety sauce, this bread adds a fragrant touch that complements the spices beautifully.
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Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt dip with cucumbers and spices balances the warmth of the butter chicken, providing a refreshing palate cleanser.
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Spiced Lentil Dal: This hearty side enriches your plate with protein while its earthy flavors harmonize with the creamy indulgence of butter chicken.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, lightly seasoned and roasted, add a delightful crunch alongside the dish’s soft texture, enhancing both taste and nutrition.
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Mango Chutney: This sweet and tangy condiment offers a pop of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory and creamy aspects of the dish.
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Chai or Lassi: A sweet or spiced lassi will offer a creamy beverage option, while a warm chai can warm up those colder evenings, finishing off your meal perfectly.
These pairings not only complement the easy butter chicken but also create a dinner table filled with joy and warmth.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Butter Chicken
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Fridge: Store leftover Easy Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
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Freezer: Your buttery sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe bags, expelling excess air, and label before freezing.
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Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens.
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Make-Ahead: If preparing ahead, you can freeze the sauce alone and cook the chicken fresh when you’re ready to enjoy this delicious Easy Butter Chicken.
Make-Ahead Tips for Easy Butter Chicken
Prepping this Easy Butter Chicken ahead of time is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken with yogurt, garlic, ginger, and spices up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The sauce can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain its rich flavor, reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop before adding in the browned chicken. When it’s time to serve, just let it simmer together for about 8-10 minutes, ensuring that your meal is just as delicious and bursting with flavor as if freshly made. Enjoy the convenience of having a restaurant-quality dish ready to go!
Easy Butter Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these delicious ideas!
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Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a hearty twist that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with either option, making it just as satisfying.
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Dairy-Free: Opt for coconut milk instead of cream to achieve a rich, creamy texture without dairy. This adds a lovely tropical flavor that beautifully complements the spices.
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Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped green chilies or extra red chili powder to heat things up. A little goes a long way, so adjust according to your spice tolerance!
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Texture Twist: For added crunch, stir in some roasted cashews or almonds just before serving. This delightful texture contrast will elevate your dish!
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or mint at the end for a burst of freshness. These bright notes can really lift the overall flavor profile.
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the plated dish for a zesty finish. The acidity brightens the richness of the sauce, adding a new dimension to the dish.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for a unique, smoky flavor that transforms the classic recipe into a surprising delight.
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Quick Version: If time is tight, use a store-bought Tikka Masala sauce in place of the homemade spice mix. You can still add your chicken for a quick yet tasty meal!
Easy Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the juiciest results, I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs. However, if you prefer a leaner protein option, boneless skinless chicken breasts will work just fine. Be sure to choose fresh chicken without dark spots or a foul odor—always a good indicator of quality!
How should I store leftover Easy Butter Chicken?
After enjoying your Easy Butter Chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3 days. Remember to allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing the container to maintain optimal freshness.
Can I freeze Easy Butter Chicken?
Yes! Freezing is a great way to enjoy this dish later. Portion the Butter Chicken into freezer-safe bags, making sure to remove excess air. Label and date them before placing in the freezer—your meal will stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If you find that your sauce has thickened too much during cooking, no worries! Simply add a splash of water or extra cream while gently simmering, stirring continuously until you reach your desired consistency. It’s all about achieving that velvety texture that makes Butter Chicken so delightful!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This Easy Butter Chicken Recipe can easily be adapted for various dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk. If you have allergies to any spices or ingredients, feel free to omit them or replace with alternatives that suit your needs. Always check with friends or family about any dietary restrictions before serving.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate the chicken in yogurt, garlic, ginger, spices, and salt for at least 30 minutes, but ideally up to 1 hour. This not only infuses it with flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making it scrumptiously juicy in the final dish. Don’t rush this step!
Easy Butter Chicken Recipe for Creamy, Restaurant-Quality Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the chicken by combining it with yogurt, minced garlic, ginger, spices, and salt in a large bowl. Let it sit for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Heat olive oil and ghee in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the marinated chicken in batches for about 3 minutes per side.
- Sauté sliced onions in the same skillet until soft and translucent, about 6 minutes. Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute.
- Stir in garam masala, ground cumin, turmeric, and red chili powder. Add crushed tomatoes and salt, allowing the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Blend the sauce until smooth, adding water if necessary for desired consistency.
- Return the sauce to the skillet. Mix in thickened cream, sugar, kasoori methi, and browned chicken. Simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.