Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe in 30 Minutes
Craving restaurant-style Indian food without the hassle? This flavorful dish brings rich, creamy goodness to your table in half an hour. Using a single pan, you’ll create tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato sauce—perfect for busy weeknights.
Each serving packs 28g of protein, making it both satisfying and nutritious. Pair it with basmati rice or warm naan for a complete meal. Inspired by Virginia’s authentic eateries, this version balances spices without overwhelming heat.
Prep takes just 10 minutes, while cooking needs only 20. Leftovers stay fresh for three days, and you can even freeze portions for later. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a longtime fan, this method delivers consistent results every time.
Key Takeaways
- Ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup
- High-protein meal at 28g per serving
- Pairs well with rice, naan, or fresh herbs
- Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience
- Mild spice level suits most tastes
Why You’ll Love This Quick & Easy Butter Chicken
Families rave about this balanced blend of spices and tender protein. The dish layers flavors like a pro—starting with garlic and ginger, building with tomato sauce, and finishing with creamy yogurt. Each bite delivers depth without fuss.
Customize the heat to your liking. Reduce chili powder for kids or add extra for a kick. Even vegetarians can join in—swap chicken for chickpeas or lentils. No special trips to the store needed.
Busy nights? The sauce freezes beautifully. Prep a batch ahead, then reheat with fresh protein. One reviewer notes:
“A keeper! Delicious with Basmati rice.”
- 3-step flavor magic: Aromatics, spices, and cream merge seamlessly.
- Pantry-friendly: Uses staples like garam masala and cumin.
- Meal-prep hero: Freeze portions for future dinners.
Ingredients for Your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
The right ingredients make all the difference in flavor and texture. Fresh spices, tender protein, and pantry staples blend seamlessly for a restaurant-worthy meal. Below, find everything you’ll need, organized by category.
Protein & Dairy
Boneless, skinless thighs are ideal for juicy results. Breast works too but requires careful cooking to avoid dryness. For the creamy sauce, heavy cream or Greek yogurt adds richness.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | 1.5 lbs | Cut into bite-sized pieces |
| Yogurt | ½ cup | Unsweetened, plain |
| Heavy cream | ½ cup | Substitute: half-and-half |
Spices & Aromatics
Fresh garlic, ginger, and onion form the flavor base. Garam masala, cumin, and chili powder add warmth. Adjust chili levels to taste.
- Garlic: 6 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 4 tbsp grated
- Garam masala: 3 tsp + 4 tbsp
Pantry Staples
Stock your kitchen with these essentials. Canned tomatoes save time, while honey balances acidity.
- Tomatoes: 3 cups (diced or canned)
- Chicken stock: ¼ cup
- Butter: 3 tbsp + ¼ cup melted
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Mastering this dish starts with building layers of flavor in just three simple steps. Each phase—sautéing, browning, and simmering—ensures tender meat and a velvety sauce. Follow these techniques for consistent results every time.
Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 1 tbsp oil or ghee in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until golden. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for 30 seconds to avoid burning.
Pro tip: A heavy-bottom pot distributes heat evenly, preventing hotspots.
Brown the Chicken
Push aromatics to the skillet’s edges. Add 1.5 lbs chicken thighs in a single layer—crowding steams instead of sears. Cook 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Work in batches if needed.
| Pan Type | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skillet | Quick browning | Use stainless steel for crispness |
| Dutch oven | Even simmering | Retains heat for thicker sauces |
Simmer to Perfection
Return all chicken to the pot. Pour in blended tomato sauce and ¼ cup stock. Simmer 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened. Finish with ½ cup cream and 2 tbsp butter, stirring gently.
Adjustment: Thin the sauce with water or add cream for extra richness. Garnish with cilantro before serving.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Transform your meal into a feast with perfect pairings for this classic dish. Whether you prefer traditional combos or modern twists, these options enhance the recipe’s rich flavors.
Classic Matches: Serve with fluffy basmati rice or warm garlic naan to soak up the sauce. For a lighter touch, try cucumber raita—a cool yogurt mix with diced veggies.
Pro tip: Toast papadum (crispy flatbread) for added crunch. A side of kachumber salad balances the dish’s richness with fresh tomatoes and onions.
- Vegetable Sides: Roasted spinach or steamed green beans add color and nutrients.
- Beverages: Mango lassi cools the palate, while an IPA beer complements the spices.
- Leftovers: Stuff parathas with leftover butter chicken or use it as a pizza topping.
“The garam masala aroma pairs beautifully with a crisp Pinot Grigio.”
For a low-carb twist, swap rice for cauliflower rice or quinoa. Each serving option lets you customize the meal to your taste.
Nutritional Information & Dietary Notes
Understanding the nutritional profile helps you enjoy this dish while meeting dietary goals. Each serving contains 491 calories, with a balance of 33g fat, 39g protein, and 9g carbs. The sodium content clocks in at 963mg, so adjust salt if needed.
Dietary swaps are simple: Use coconut milk and vegan butter for dairy-free versions. Zucchini noodles replace rice for a low-carb twist. Chickpeas work well for vegetarians.
- Gluten-free: Skip flour thickeners; use cornstarch instead.
- Dairy-free: Swap yogurt with coconut milk yogurt.
- Low-sodium: Reduce added salt and use fresh tomatoes.
“Nutritional values are estimates. Consult a dietitian for precise needs.”
Greek yogurt adds creaminess while boosting protein. For stricter diets, check labels on spices and broth to avoid hidden allergens.
Conclusion
Bring restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen in just 30 minutes. This recipe adapts to your spice preference—add extra chili or keep it mild for kids.
Serve hot (165°F) with naan or rice. Loved it? Share your twist online or try tandoori chicken next. Your feedback helps others discover this go-to meal.
For more fast dinners, explore our chickpea curry recipe. Tag us when you cook—we’d love to see your creations!
