Name: Quick and Easy Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken thighs, cubed or bite-size pieces; 1 teaspoon Salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon chili powder (from 2 teaspoons total, divided); ½ teaspoon ground turmeric (from 1 teaspoon total, divided); ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (from 1 teaspoon total, divided); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 shallots, minced; 5 garlic cloves, grated or minced; 2 inches ginger, grated or minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (remaining half from 1 teaspoon total); 1 teaspoon ground turmeric (remaining half from 1 teaspoon total); ½ teaspoon ground coriander; 1 cinnamon stick; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 2 teaspoons chili powder (remaining half from 2 teaspoons total, preferably Kashmiri chili powder); 15 ounce can tomato sauce; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; ¼ cup chicken broth (or water); 1 tablespoon honey (optional); ½ cup heavy cream

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If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that comes together in no time, this Quick and Easy Butter Chicken Recipe is your new best friend. Packed with beautifully spiced tomato sauce, tender chicken, and a creamy finish, this recipe creates a rich, flavorful meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly straightforward to make. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or whenever you want that delicious restaurant-quality butter chicken, without the long wait or complicated steps. Once you try it, I’m sure it’ll become one of your go-to dishes too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This image shows a white bowl filled with raw, pink, chunked chicken pieces at the bottom center. Above it, there is a small white plate with two thick slices of light yellow butter on the left. To the left of the bowl, there is an opened can with bright red tomato paste inside. Above that, a glass measuring cup with creamy white liquid is placed. At the top left, there is a small rectangular beige dish with a cinnamon stick resting in it. Near the top center, a small rectangular beige dish holds finely chopped garlic. To the right, a white round bowl contains pale yellow lemon juice. Below the lemon juice is a round small dish with light yellow ginger paste. To its right, a small grayish round bowl holds salt and crushed black pepper. Below that, a small white dish contains three bright spices like red and orange powders. Centered above the chicken bowl is a white round plate layered with different ground spices in red, brown, yellow, and beige shades. To the right of the spice plate is a small white bowl with golden-yellow oil. On the bottom right, a small white dish displays a deep red tomato paste. All items are placed on a textured surface changed to white marble texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is all it takes to whip up this scrumptious butter chicken. Each ingredient plays a key role—from the perfectly spiced chicken to the luscious creamy sauce that brings everything together with flavor, texture, and color.

Chicken thighs (2 lbs): Juicy and flavorful, they stay tender when cooked and soak up all the spices beautifully.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds just the right mild heat and complexity.
Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, divided): Essential for that rich, creamy base and brings a wonderful silky texture.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sear the chicken and infuse it with a subtle fruity undertone.
Shallots (2, minced): Provide a gentle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
Garlic cloves (5, grated or minced): Infuse the dish with aromatic warmth.
Ginger (2 inches, grated or minced): Offers fresh, zesty notes and a subtle spicy kick.
Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Gives an earthy, nutty aroma that’s classic in Indian cooking.
Chili powder (2 teaspoons, divided): Kashmiri chili powder adds vibrant color and mild heat.
Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon, divided): Adds a smoky depth that amps up the flavor profile.
Ground turmeric (1 teaspoon, divided): Brings a beautiful golden hue and subtle earthiness.
Ground coriander (½ teaspoon): Adds a light, citrusy brightness that balances the richness.
Cinnamon stick (1): Infuses warm, fragrant undertones to the sauce as it simmers.
Garam masala (2 teaspoons): A classic spice blend that rounds out the dish with complex spice notes.
Tomato sauce (15 ounces): Creates the luscious, tangy base for the curry.
Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Intensifies tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
Chicken broth or water (¼ cup): Adds moisture and helps balance the sauce.
Honey (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a touch of natural sweetness to round the flavors.
Heavy cream (½ cup): Creamy finish that makes this dish irresistibly smooth and rich.

How to Make Quick and Easy Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by placing your cubed chicken thighs in a large bowl. Season generously with salt, pepper, half the chili powder, half the turmeric, and half the smoked paprika. This simple seasoning sets the stage for all the beautiful layers of flavor that follow, while ensuring the chicken is vibrant and fragrant right from the start.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until it’s golden brown and mostly cooked through. The searing locks in moisture and creates a delicious caramelized exterior. Remove the chicken and set it aside — it will finish cooking later in the rich sauce.

Step 3: Cook Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and toss in the minced shallots. Let them soften for 2 to 3 minutes, then add the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant—about one minute. This fragrant base brings a wonderful depth to your butter chicken and fills your kitchen with amazing aromas.

Step 4: Spice It Up

Add the rest of your spices—the remaining chili powder, turmeric, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, cinnamon stick, and garam masala—to the skillet. Stir and cook for a minute to toast the spices, boosting their flavors and releasing essential oils.

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, and chicken broth or water. Mix everything well to combine into a rich, vibrant sauce. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer—that’s where the magic starts to happen as the flavors begin to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Simmer Chicken in Sauce

Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it gently in the sauce. Cover with a lid and let it simmer on medium heat for 5 to 10 minutes. This final simmer allows the chicken to cook fully while soaking up every bit of the savory sauce.

Step 7: Finish with Cream

Carefully remove the lid and stir in the heavy cream, removing the cinnamon stick beforehand. Taste and adjust salt and pepper to your liking. This creamy addition ties the dish together, making every bite rich, smooth, and comforting.

How to Serve Quick and Easy Butter Chicken Recipe

A white bowl filled with a bed of fluffy white rice forming the base layer, topped with chunks of meat covered in thick orange-brown curry sauce sprinkled with small green herb pieces. On one side, two round pieces of slightly browned flatbread rest against the rice. A silver spoon is placed inside the bowl, with its handle extending outward. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface, with a wooden bowl of green herbs visible in the upper left corner and a grey cloth partially visible at the bottom right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped coriander or cilantro adds a pop of fresh herbaceousness that brightens this creamy dish. If you like a little extra zing, a squeeze of lemon or lime juice can cut through the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This butter chicken is divine served over fluffy basmati rice, which soaks up every bit of that luscious sauce. Alternatively, warm naan bread or roti makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for scooping up every last savory bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try butter chicken served alongside roasted vegetables or stuffed into pita bread with some crunchy pickled onions. You could even use it as a topping for a loaded baked potato or mix it into a comforting shepherd’s pie for a fusion delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Butter chicken flavors actually develop further after resting, making leftovers even tastier. Store any extra in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making weekday dinners a breeze.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. A splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. You can also microwave leftovers covered in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work, but since they’re leaner, be careful not to overcook to keep them tender. Lower the simmer time slightly to avoid dryness.

Is this recipe truly quick and easy?

Yes! With about 30 minutes total, using simple techniques like searing and simmering, it’s designed for busy cooks who want incredible flavor without hassle.

Can I make this vegan or vegetarian?

While this recipe is centered on chicken and butter, you can substitute tofu or paneer for vegetarian options and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a vegan twist.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! You can make the butter chicken a day before and gently reheat it. The flavors actually deepen when allowed to rest overnight.

What’s the best way to get that smoky flavor?

If you want a smoky touch reminiscent of traditional butter chicken, try broiling or air-frying the chicken pieces before adding them to the sauce. This adds a lovely charred note quick and easy.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Quick and Easy Butter Chicken Recipe enough—it’s a game-changer for busy nights when you want something wholesome, flavorful, and cozy. Once you have those bold spices, creamy sauce, and tender chicken in a single dish, you’ll be hooked. So grab your ingredients, put on your favorite music, and get ready to impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to share this meal with you!