Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe: Are you craving that iconic, velvety, and sumptuously rich Butter Chicken but believe it’s too complicated to recreate at home? Prepare to be delightfully surprised! I am absolutely thrilled to share a simplified method that brings the authentic, restaurant-quality flavors of this beloved Indian classic directly into your kitchen, without the usual lengthy marinating or an exhaustive list of ingredients.
A Culinary Journey from Delhi to Your Dinner Table
Known as Murgh Makhani in Hindi, this dish boasts a fascinating origin story, emerging from the bustling culinary scene of Delhi in the mid-20th century. It swiftly captured hearts worldwide with its irresistible blend of creamy tomato gravy, aromatic spices, and unbelievably tender chicken. There’s a profound reason why Butter Chicken consistently ranks among the most popular Indian curries globally; its universal appeal lies in its unparalleled balance.
Imagine a symphony of flavors: a gentle tang from ripe tomatoes, a luxurious creaminess imparted by butter and a touch of cream, and a subtle, warming embrace from a thoughtfully selected array of spices. This creates a sauce that beautifully coats every succulent piece of chicken, offering a dish that is both comforting and deeply satisfying. My ultimate goal with this Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is to completely demystify the process, ensuring that even novice cooks can achieve truly remarkable, restaurant-quality results in under an hour. Get ready to impress your taste buds and your loved ones with this culinary delight, proving that incredible flavor doesn’t always demand endless effort!
Ingredients:
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For the Quick Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken (thighs or breasts), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup plain full-fat yogurt (Greek yogurt works too, but thin it slightly with a tablespoon of water)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (equal parts fresh ginger and garlic, crushed)
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (Kashmiri chili powder for color and mild heat, or regular for more kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon mustard oil (optional, but adds a lovely authentic pungency; substitute with a neutral oil if preferred)
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For the Rich Butter Chicken Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for cooking chicken)
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1.5 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 green chili, slit lengthwise (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cinnamon stick (about 2 inches)
- 3-4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 3-4 whole cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 can (28 ounces / 794g) crushed tomatoes, or 4-5 large ripe fresh tomatoes, pureed
- 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 15-20 minutes (this makes for a super creamy sauce!)
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (again, Kashmiri for color, or regular for heat)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 tablespoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi), lightly crushed between your palms
- 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (plus extra for garnishing)
- 1/2 cup water or chicken broth, as needed for consistency
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For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- Thin juliennes of fresh ginger (optional)
- A final swirl of heavy cream
- Naan bread, rice, or roti for serving
Phase 1: Preparing and Marinating the Chicken for Our Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
- First things first, let’s get our chicken ready! I usually opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay incredibly juicy and tender, but breasts work beautifully too if you prefer them. Cut your chicken into roughly 1-inch bite-sized pieces. We want them uniform so they cook evenly. Place these lovely pieces into a large mixing bowl.
- Now comes the magical marinade! Add the plain full-fat yogurt to the chicken. The yogurt is a secret weapon; its acidity not only tenderizes the chicken beautifully but also helps the spices cling to it. Then, spoon in your ginger-garlic paste. This aromatic duo is the heart of so many Indian dishes, and it provides an incredible base flavor.
- Next, let’s layer in those glorious spices: red chili powder (if you’re using Kashmiri, prepare for a gorgeous red hue without too much heat; for more fire, use regular chili powder), turmeric powder for its earthy warmth and color, garam masala for its complex blend of roasted spices, cumin powder for its distinctive savory notes, and coriander powder which adds a lovely citrusy, floral hint. Don’t forget the fresh lemon juice – it brightens everything up and aids in tenderization – and a good sprinkle of salt.
- Finally, if you have it, drizzle in the mustard oil. I absolutely love the pungent, sharp kick it adds to the marinade, giving a truly authentic flavor profile. If it’s not your thing or you don’t have it, a neutral oil like vegetable or canola will work just fine.
- With clean hands (or a spoon, but hands are better for thorough mixing!), gently yet firmly mix all these ingredients together until every single piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the vibrant, fragrant marinade. You want to ensure no piece is left untouched by this flavor bomb.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let it marinate. Ideally, you want to let this sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour. If you have more time, say 2-4 hours, or even overnight, the flavors will deepen, and the chicken will become even more tender. For a “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe,” 30 minutes is perfectly acceptable, but remember, the longer it marinates, the more flavor it absorbs!
Phase 2: Crafting the Creamy, Flavorful Tomato Base for Our Butter Chicken
- While our chicken is happily marinating, let’s get started on the soul of our butter chicken: the sauce! In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. We’re using a generous amount of butter because, well, it’s butter chicken after all!
- Once the butter is shimmering and gently sizzling, add your finely chopped onions. Stir them frequently and cook until they become beautifully translucent and soft, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes. We’re not looking for deep caramelization here, just a gentle softening to lay a sweet foundation.
- Next, toss in the ginger-garlic paste and the slit green chili (if you’re using it for a little gentle warmth). Sauté for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until you can smell their glorious fragrance fill your kitchen. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter very quickly.
- Now, let’s introduce our whole spices: the cinnamon stick, lightly crushed green cardamom pods (crushing them releases their intoxicating aroma), whole cloves, and the bay leaf. Stir these aromatic treasures into the onion mixture and let them cook for about 30 seconds to a minute. This allows them to “bloom” in the hot butter, releasing their essential oils and infusing the base with incredible depth.
- It’s time for the tomatoes! Pour in your canned crushed tomatoes. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, make sure they’re pureed into a smooth consistency before adding. Stir everything together. Add the soaked cashews to the pot at this stage. The cashews are crucial; they will contribute to the luxurious creaminess and richness of our sauce, giving it that signature velvety texture.
- Now for more ground spices: red chili powder, garam masala, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Stir these into the tomato mixture. You’ll notice the sauce starting to take on a beautiful, rich color. Add the granulated sugar to this mix; it’s essential for balancing the acidity of the tomatoes and creating that perfectly harmonious sweet and savory profile characteristic of butter chicken. Season with salt.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. This simmering time is vital. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully, the tomatoes to cook down, and the cashews to soften even further, preparing them for blending. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially with the cashews at the bottom.
- Once the simmering is complete and the sauce base is fragrant and cooked down, carefully remove the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and whole cardamom pods/cloves (or simply blend them if you prefer a spicier, more rustic sauce, though many people prefer to remove them for a smoother experience).
- Let the mixture cool slightly before transferring it to a blender. Blend until it’s incredibly smooth and creamy. This might take a few minutes, and you might need to add a splash of water or chicken broth if it’s too thick to blend properly. For the silkiest, restaurant-quality butter chicken, I highly recommend passing the blended sauce through a fine-mesh sieve. This step removes any tiny bits of spice or cashew, resulting in an unbelievably smooth and luxurious sauce that truly elevates the dish. Trust me, it’s worth the extra minute!
Phase 3: Cooking the Chicken and Bringing Our Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Together
- With our magnificent sauce base ready, it’s time to cook our marinated chicken! Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter (or a neutral oil) in a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. You want the pan to be hot enough to get a nice sear on the chicken.
- Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You might need to do this in two or three batches to ensure the chicken browns nicely rather than steams. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature.
- Sear the chicken pieces for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and lightly charred in places. The goal here isn’t to cook them through completely, but to develop that wonderful outer crust and lock in the juices. Once browned, remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside. It will finish cooking in the sauce.
- Now, carefully pour the smooth, sieved tomato and cashew sauce back into your large pot or Dutch oven, or use the same skillet if it’s large enough. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. It’s truly amazing how quickly this sauce transforms from components into a luxurious base!
- Add the browned chicken pieces back into the simmering sauce. Stir gently to coat all the chicken thoroughly. This is where the magic really starts to happen, as the chicken begins to absorb the incredible flavors of the sauce.
- Add the dried fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi) to the sauce. These humble leaves are a game-changer for butter chicken, imparting a distinctive, slightly bitter, and aromatic flavor that is absolutely essential for its authentic taste. Just crush them lightly between your palms before adding to release their fragrance.
- Stir in the 1/2 cup of heavy cream. This addition takes the richness to another level, contributing to that signature creamy texture and slightly sweet finish. If the sauce seems a little too thick for your liking, now is the time to add a splash of water or chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember, we’re aiming for a luscious, pourable sauce, not a thin gravy.
- Let the butter chicken simmer gently for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering time allows the chicken to cook through completely, and more importantly, it gives all the flavors a chance to fully meld and deepen. You’ll notice the sauce becoming even more vibrant and glossy.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. This is your chance to add a little more salt, a pinch more sugar if you like it sweeter, or even a tiny bit more garam masala if you feel it needs a final aromatic lift. Achieving the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory is key to a truly exceptional Butter Chicken.
Phase 4: The Grand Finale and Serving Our Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
- Once you’re happy with the taste and consistency of your glorious Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken, it’s time to get it ready for serving. Turn off the heat.
- Garnish generously with freshly chopped coriander leaves. The vibrant green not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous counterpoint to the rich sauce. If you’re feeling fancy, a few thin juliennes of fresh ginger sprinkled on top add a lovely textural contrast and a hint of zesty freshness.
- For that ultimate visual appeal and an extra touch of decadence, drizzle a final swirl of heavy cream over the top of the dish just before serving. It looks absolutely stunning and makes every spoonful feel incredibly luxurious.
- Serve your homemade butter chicken hot with your favorite accompaniments. It pairs wonderfully with fluffy basmati rice, warm and pillowy naan bread (perfect for scooping up every last drop of that amazing sauce!), or even simple roti. This dish is designed to be shared and savored, a true comfort food masterpiece that will impress anyone you serve it to. Enjoy the fruits of your labor – this truly is a restaurant-quality meal made right in your own kitchen!
Conclusion:
And there you have it, friends! We’ve journeyed through the steps of creating a dish that truly stands apart, a culinary masterpiece that I wholeheartedly believe everyone should experience. This isn’t just another meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, a symphony of spices that come together in perfect harmony. What makes this particular interpretation so special, and dare I say, a must-try for your kitchen repertoire, is its incredible balance. We’re talking about succulent pieces of chicken, tender and marinated to perfection, swimming in a rich, velvety, and utterly aromatic tomato-based sauce. The creamy texture, the gentle warmth of ginger and garlic, the subtle sweetness, and the vibrant color all combine to create an experience that is both comforting and deeply satisfying. Forget about complicated restaurant reservations or expensive takeout; the joy of recreating such an iconic dish in your own home, tailored precisely to your taste, is an unparalleled feeling. It’s the kind of dish that garners rave reviews, warms the soul, and makes you feel like a truly accomplished chef, even if it was surprisingly simple to achieve.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Butter Chicken Experience
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making this incredible dish, let’s talk about how to present it for maximum enjoyment. The classic pairing, without a doubt, is with a fluffy mound of perfectly cooked Basmati rice. The delicate grains absorb the luxurious sauce beautifully, making every spoonful a delight. But don’t stop there! Freshly baked, warm naan bread, still slightly charred from the heat, is absolutely essential for scooping up every last drop of that magnificent gravy. If you prefer something lighter, a simple whole wheat roti or flaky paratha also makes a fantastic accompaniment. To cut through the richness and add a refreshing contrast, I always recommend a side of cooling raita – a simple yogurt dip with cucumber, mint, and a touch of cumin. A crisp, fresh salad, perhaps with slices of red onion, cucumber, and tomato, dressed with a squeeze of lime, can also provide a wonderful counterpoint. For garnishing, a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves not only adds a burst of color but also a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the entire dish. Don’t forget a few wedges of lime on the side; a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before eating can awaken all the flavors in a truly magical way. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, an impressive meal to share with friends, or even a comforting treat on a quiet evening in. Imagine the delight on your loved ones’ faces when you serve up this culinary gem!
Creative Variations to Make It Your Own
One of the beautiful things about cooking is the freedom to experiment, and this recipe is incredibly adaptable. While the traditional version is divine, don’t hesitate to put your own spin on it. If you’re a fan of a little more heat, feel free to increase the amount of Kashmiri chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. For those who prefer a milder flavor, adjust the spices down to your comfort level. Not a fan of chicken, or looking for a vegetarian alternative? This sauce works wonders with other proteins too! You could easily substitute the chicken with cubes of firm paneer (Indian cheese), tofu, or even chickpeas for a delightful vegetarian option. Lamb or goat can also be used, though they might require a longer cooking time to become tender. To sneak in some extra vegetables, consider adding a handful of frozen peas, some diced bell peppers, or fresh spinach leaves during the last 10-15 minutes of simmering. They’ll absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully and add extra nutritional value. For an even richer, creamier sauce, a touch more heavy cream can be stirred in at the very end. Conversely, if you’re looking for a slightly lighter version, you could try substituting some of the cream with full-fat Greek yogurt, stirred in off the heat to prevent curdling. A swirl of melted butter or a sprinkle of toasted cashew nuts or almonds right before serving can also add another layer of texture and richness, making your presentation even more spectacular.
Your Culinary Adventure Awaits!
I truly hope that this guide has inspired you to roll up your sleeves and dive into making this exceptional dish. There’s an immense satisfaction that comes from creating something so delicious from scratch, something that tastes infinitely better than anything you could order out. This Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is designed to demystify the process and prove that authentic Indian flavors are well within your reach, regardless of your cooking experience. It’s an invitation to explore new tastes, hone your skills, and most importantly, enjoy the fruits of your labor with those you cherish. So, please, give it a try! Embark on this delicious culinary adventure, and once you do, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you add any unique twists? What did you serve it with? Don’t be shy – share your thoughts, photos, and any tips you discovered in the comments section below or tag us on your favorite social media platforms. Your feedback and creations inspire us all! Happy cooking, and get ready to impress your taste buds!
Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
A simplified method for authentic, restaurant-quality Butter Chicken without lengthy marinating or an exhaustive ingredient list, delivering rich, velvety flavors in under an hour.
Ingredients
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1.5 lbs skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
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1 tsp salt (for chicken)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp sweet paprika
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0.5 tsp curry powder
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1 tbsp Greek yogurt
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3 tbsp vegetable oil
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3 tbsp butter, divided
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6 cloves garlic, minced
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1 medium onion, diced
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1 15-oz can tomato sauce
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1 tsp sugar
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1 tsp salt (for sauce, adjust to taste)
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0.5 tsp black pepper
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2 cups heavy cream
Instructions
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Step 1
In a bowl, combine chicken chunks with 1 tsp salt (for chicken), garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes. -
Step 2
Heat 3 tbsp vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated chicken in batches until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside. -
Step 3
In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp of the divided butter. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. -
Step 4
Stir in the 15-oz can tomato sauce, sugar, 1 tsp salt (for sauce, adjust to taste), and black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. -
Step 5
Return the seared chicken to the simmering sauce. Stir in the remaining 1 tbsp butter and 2 cups heavy cream. Continue to simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing chicken to cook through and flavors to meld. -
Step 6
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh coriander (optional) or a swirl of extra cream. Serve hot with naan or rice.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
