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A vibrant plate of homemade butter chicken garnished with fresh cilantro, served alongside fluffy basmati rice and naan bread.

Effortless Homemade Butter Chicken: A Flavorful Weeknight Delight

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Discover how to make a quick, easy butter chicken recipe that is rich, creamy, and perfect for weeknights. This homemade butter chicken is a crowd-pleaser and hassle-free to prepare, delivering restaurant-quality flavor in just 30-40 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, enjoy tender chicken in a flavorful tomato and cream sauce seasoned with authentic Indian spices.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g (1 lb) boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Optional: cook chicken in an air fryer for smoky flavor before adding to sauce.
  3. Add Tomatoes & Spices: Stir in crushed tomatoes and spices: garam masala, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes for flavors to meld and sauce to thicken.
  4. Finish with Cream & Serve: Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream or coconut cream. Simmer for 5 more minutes. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan bread.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices for best flavor.
  • For a thicker sauce, simmer longer or add butter at the end.
  • Reduce chili powder and cayenne for milder flavor.
  • This dish stores well—refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze in portions.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian-inspired
  • Diet: Dairy Option: Use coconut cream for dairy-free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 420 Kcal
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg