Easy Homemade Butter Chicken – Simple & Sensational Dinner

This Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is one of those recipes I keep coming back to whenever I want something rich, comforting, and full of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy tomato-based sauce, tender chunks of chicken, and warm spices come together in the most satisfying way. It’s a simple dish that delivers restaurant-quality results right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this butter chicken balances bold spices with a creamy, buttery finish. It’s approachable even if I don’t cook Indian food often, and the whole thing comes together in one pan. The ingredients are easy to find, the prep is minimal, and the payoff is huge. I can pair it with rice or naan for a hearty dinner that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Plus, it reheats beautifully, which makes it perfect for leftovers.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks

• Plain yogurt

• Lemon juice

• Garlic, minced

• Ginger, grated

• Garam masala

• Ground cumin

• Ground turmeric

• Chili powder or paprika

• Salt

• Butter

• Onion, finely chopped

• Tomato puree or crushed tomatoes

• Heavy cream or coconut milk

• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. I start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. I let it sit for at least 30 minutes, but longer (even overnight) makes the chicken even more flavorful.

2. In a large skillet or pan, I melt some butter over medium heat and cook the marinated chicken until browned and cooked through. I remove it from the pan and set it aside.

3. In the same pan, I add a little more butter and sauté the onions until soft and golden.

4. I stir in the remaining garlic, ginger, and spices, letting them bloom for about a minute.

5. Then I pour in the tomato puree and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes to reduce and deepen the flavor.

6. I stir in the cream (or coconut milk) and return the chicken to the pan. I simmer everything together for a few more minutes until it’s heated through and creamy.

7. I garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. It takes about 15 minutes to prep, 30 minutes to marinate (or longer if I plan ahead), and around 25 minutes to cook. In total, I usually have it ready in about an hour—less if I marinate earlier.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the chicken for paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version. If I want a dairy-free option, I use coconut milk instead of cream and olive oil in place of butter. I’ve also added spinach or peas for some extra veggies, and it works beautifully. For extra heat, I throw in a chopped chili or a dash of cayenne.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use the stovetop over low heat or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to keep the sauce smooth. It also freezes well—I just cool it completely, store it in freezer-safe containers, and thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, I’ve used both. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving, but breasts work great too if I’m careful not to overcook them.

What can I use instead of cream?

I often use coconut milk for a dairy-free option. It gives the sauce a slightly different flavor, but it’s still rich and delicious.

How spicy is this butter chicken?

It’s mild with warm spice, not heat. When I want more kick, I add chili flakes or a bit of cayenne to taste.

Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely. I actually think it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to develop. It’s perfect for meal prep.

What should I serve with butter chicken?

I usually go with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread. Sometimes I add a simple cucumber raita or green salad on the side to balance the richness.

Conclusion

This Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is everything I want in a comforting dinner—creamy, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests. Once I learned how easy it is to make from scratch, I stopped ordering it and started cooking it myself. Every time I make it, it reminds me how a few spices and a little time can turn into something truly sensational.