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Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken – Creamy, Flavorful and Comforting

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a rich, comforting dish that brings bold spices and creamy texture together in one irresistible meal. Tender chicken thighs simmer in a velvety tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, warm spices, butter, and cream—creating a dish that feels restaurant-worthy but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. This version is easy, family-friendly, and packed with flavor without being overly spicy. Served with fluffy rice and warm naan, it’s a complete, satisfying meal you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for: Cozy dinners Homemade comfort food Easy Indian-inspired meals Meal prep favorites
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ lbs chicken thighs skinless and boneless, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 6 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
For serving:
  • Cooked rice
  • Naan bread
  • These ingredients create a sauce that’s creamy mildly spiced, and deeply comforting.

✨ Kitchen Essentials You’ll Love

Quick picks I trust for better results, faster prep, and easier cleanup.

  • 🍳

    Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

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  • ⚡

    Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric

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  • 🔥

    CHEFMAN Digital Air Fryer XL 10L

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Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

Equipment

  • Large skillet or deep pan
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Saucepan (optional, for rice)

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2:
  1. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.
Step 3:
  1. Stir in the minced garlic and garlic powder. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4:
  1. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned on all sides.
Step 5:
  1. Sprinkle in the curry powder, garam masala, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with spices.
Step 6:
  1. Pour in the tomato sauce and add the sugar. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 7:
  1. Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
Step 8:
  1. Stir in the butter until melted and fully incorporated.
Step 9:
  1. Add the heavy cream and Greek yogurt. Stir gently until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 10:
  1. Simmer for an additional 5–8 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 11:
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 12:
  1. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
  2. Serve hot over rice with naan on the side.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave
Add a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens
🥄 Variations
Milder version: Reduce cayenne pepper
Extra creamy: Add more cream
Tomato-rich: Add a spoon of tomato paste
Herb finish: Add cilantro instead of parsley
Protein swap: Use chicken breast instead of thighs
Each variation keeps the dish rich, balanced, and customizable.
❓ 10 FAQs
Is this butter chicken spicy?
Mildly spiced—easy to adjust.
Can I use chicken breast?
Yes, but thighs stay juicier.
Is this an authentic recipe?
It’s a simplified homemade version.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day.
Does it freeze well?
Yes, up to 2 months.
Why add sugar?
It balances the tomato acidity.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, reduce cayenne for mild flavor.
Is naan required?
No, but it pairs perfectly.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger pan.
What sides go best with it?
Rice, naan, or simple vegetables.
🏁 Conclusion
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken delivers everything you want in a comfort meal—creamy sauce, tender chicken, and bold spices—without complicated steps. It’s warm, satisfying, and perfect for bringing everyone to the table.
Once you try it, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.