Hello friends, Chef André here.
There’s something timeless and comforting about a warm bowl of Homemade Butter Chicken. Rich, creamy, gently spiced, and incredibly satisfying, this dish is one of those recipes that instantly makes dinner feel special without requiring hours in the kitchen.
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is designed for real life. Tender chicken simmers in a velvety tomato-butter sauce infused with aromatic spices, creating a cozy, restaurant-style meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. Serve it with fluffy rice or warm naan, and you’ve got a dish that never fails to impress.
Comfort food doesn’t get much better than this.
Why This Butter Chicken Recipe Is a Keeper
This recipe stands out because it’s:
- Ready in about 45 minutes
- Creamy, rich, and deeply comforting
- Family-friendly with mild, balanced spice
- Perfect for meal prep or leftovers
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
Classic flavor, simplified.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Chicken
- 1½ lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs, cubed
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
Sauce Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Spices & Sauce
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
For Serving
- Cooked basmati rice
- Warm naan
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin.
Step 2
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 3
In the same skillet, add remaining butter and chopped onion. Cook 4–5 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
Step 4
Add garlic and ginger. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5
Stir in garam masala, coriander, and turmeric. Toast spices briefly.
Step 6
Add tomato puree and chicken broth. Simmer 10 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Step 7
Return chicken to the pan and simmer 10–15 minutes until cooked through.
Step 8
Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Simmer gently 5 minutes. Serve warm.
Chef André’s Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken
- Don’t rush the sauce simmer
- Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness
- Add cream at the end to avoid curdling
- Taste and adjust spices gently
Patience brings depth of flavor.
Easy Variations to Try
- Add a pinch of chili powder for heat
- Use coconut cream for a dairy-free twist
- Add spinach at the end for color
- Finish with extra butter for richness
Make it your own.
What to Serve with Butter Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed basmati rice
- Garlic naan or flatbread
- Simple cucumber salad
A complete, comforting meal.
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave
For safe poultry handling, follow USDA Food Safety guidelines:
https://www.usda.gov/food-safety
FAQ – Homemade Butter Chicken
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it’s mild and family-friendly.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, flavors improve overnight.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freezes very well.
Is it good for special occasions?
Absolutely—always a crowd-pleaser.
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving
- Calories: ~560 kcal
- Protein: 36 g
- Fat: 38 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
Values vary by cream and butter used.
Final Words from Chef André
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is proof that comforting, flavorful dinners don’t need to be complicated. Creamy, aromatic, and deeply satisfying—it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
If you try it, tell me—rice or naan?
Chef André 👨🍳