Quick & easy butter chicken has quickly become my favorite way to enjoy a comforting, flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. One night after a long busy day, I was craving something warm and cozy but didn’t want to order takeout again, so I decided to try making a simpler version of butter chicken at home and to my surprise it turned out so creamy and delicious that I knew I had to make it part of my weekly dinner rotation.
Now whenever I need a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, this quick & easy butter chicken is my go-to because it’s rich, satisfying, and comes together faster than you might think, making it perfect even on the busiest nights.
Ingredients
- Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can adjust spices to your liking for extra heat or mildness!
- Boneless chicken breast or thighs – Tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the sauce.
- Greek yogurt – Helps tenderize the chicken and adds creaminess.
- Lemon juice – Brightens and balances the flavors.
- Garlic – Adds deep, aromatic flavor.
- Ginger – Brings warmth and a little zing.
- Garam masala – Essential for that classic Indian spice blend.
- Ground cumin – Adds earthy depth.
- Ground coriander – Gives a mild, slightly citrusy warmth.
- Paprika – Adds a sweet, smoky hint and color.
- Butter – Makes the sauce rich and silky.
- Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes – The base for that delicious, tangy sauce.
- Heavy cream – Creates the signature creamy texture.
- Fresh cilantro – For a bright, fresh finish.
- Salt & pepper – To season everything perfectly.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan – For cooking the chicken and sauce together.
- Mixing bowls – For marinating the chicken.
- Knife & cutting board – For prepping the chicken and herbs.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir the sauce and prevent sticking.
- Measuring spoons – To get the spice balance just right.
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the chicken
I start by combining Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. I add the chicken pieces and toss to coat well, then let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer if I have time).
Step 2: Sear the chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, I melt half of the butter, then add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. I remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the sauce
In the same skillet, I add the rest of the butter and pour in the tomato sauce. I stir and cook for a few minutes to develop the flavors.
Step 4: Add cream & chicken
I reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream, and add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. I let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce is thick and creamy and the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 5: Finish & garnish
I taste and adjust salt if needed, then garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
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If you like a spicier butter chicken, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra paprika. For a lighter version, you can swap heavy cream for coconut milk. This dish also tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep!
Ways to Serve
I love serving this quick & easy butter chicken over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce. It also pairs well with a side of cucumber salad or roasted veggies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make quick & easy butter chicken ahead of time?
Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.
Can I freeze quick & easy butter chicken?
Absolutely! Just store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat gently on the stove.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for quick & easy butter chicken?
Definitely! Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and flavorful.
See You in the Kitchen
I hope you try this quick & easy butter chicken soon! It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and spiced — and so simple to whip up. Let me know how you serve it and what you think!
Happy Cooking!
Print
Quick & Easy Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Looking for the best quick & easy butter chicken recipe? This one is quick, easy, and so creamy! Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or comforting meal prep, it’s the best simple way to enjoy rich Indian flavors at home. Great with rice or naan, this dish feels like a warm hug. Save this easy butter chicken recipe for your next dinner craving!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat and sear chicken until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining butter and tomato sauce to the skillet. Cook for a few minutes.
- Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream, and return chicken to skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes until sauce is thick and chicken is cooked.
- Adjust salt if needed, garnish with cilantro, and serve.
Notes
- Add cayenne for more heat if desired.
- Use coconut milk instead of cream for a lighter version.
- Keeps well in fridge for 3 days or freezer for 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
