The aroma of spices wafts through the air as you prepare to dive into an irresistible plate of easy homemade butter chicken. Creamy, buttery sauce envelops tender chunks of chicken that practically melt in your mouth. With every bite, youβre greeted by the perfect blend of spices that will have your taste buds singing and dancing like they just won the lottery.
Picture this: itβs a chilly evening, and your friends drop by unannounced. You donβt panic; instead, you whip up this easy homemade butter chicken that transforms your kitchen into a cozy haven filled with warmth and laughter. Itβs not just food; itβs a memory in the makingβeach spoonful sparking joy and satisfied smiles around the table.
I remember the first time I made butter chicken; my friends thought I was a culinary genius. Little did they know my secret involved simply following this recipe!
Essential Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use 3-4 breasts for tenderness and quicker cooking.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for the best flavor; fresh is always best!
- Fresh Ginger: Adds a zesty kick; opt for young ginger for milder flavor.
- Canned Tomato Puree: Look for quality brands without added sugar; it forms the base of our sauce.
- Heavy Cream: The secret to richness; use full-fat cream for maximum indulgence.
- Indian Spices (Garam Masala): Essential for that authentic flavor; check your pantry before heading to the store.
- Cilantro Leaves: Fresh cilantro adds brightness as a garnish; donβt skip it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Letβs Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your chicken into bite-sized pieces and mincing garlic and ginger finely so they blend seamlessly into the sauce.
SautΓ© Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add oil and let it shimmer before tossing in garlic and ginger until fragrantβabout 1 minute.
Add Chicken Pieces: Carefully place those marinated chicken chunks in the skillet. Cook until golden brown on all sidesβabout 5-7 minutes should do it.
Pour in Tomato Puree: Lower heat to simmering and stir in tomato puree with all those fantastic spicesβlet them mingle together beautifully!
Add Cream & Simmer Away!: Stir in heavy cream slowly while allowing everything to meld together perfectly. Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes until thickened.
Garnish & Serve!: Top with fresh cilantro just before serving. Pair with basmati rice or warm naan bread for an unforgettable meal experience.
With each step along this journey of culinary delight, youβll find yourself wrapped up in warmth and excitement as you create something truly specialβa dish that brings people together around the table in joyous celebration!
Now go ahead and give this easy homemade butter chicken recipe a tryβitβll quickly become a favorite at your dinner parties!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavor, then sear it for a golden crust before simmering in the rich sauce. This order ensures juicy chicken and a full-bodied sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite spices or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. A pinch of cinnamon can also elevate the dish with warm undertones.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
I once made this Easy Homemade Butter Chicken for a gathering, and everyone raved about it! Little did they know, I had whipped it up in under an hourβit was my secret weapon!
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken thighs offer more moisture and flavor in this recipe.
What should I serve with butter chicken?
Serve with basmati rice or warm naan to soak up that delicious sauce.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a tasty vegetarian option.

Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
- Author: Sofia
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in this creamy, flavorful butter chicken thatβs quick to make and perfect for cozy dinners. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
- 1 cup canned tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm oil and sautΓ© garlic and ginger until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in tomato puree and garam masala; lower heat to simmer.
- Slowly add heavy cream, stirring well. Let it simmer gently for 15 minutes until thickened.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Pair with basmati rice or naan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: SautΓ©ing
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices before cooking. - Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. - Leftovers taste even better the next day!