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Bowl of creamy butter chicken with cilantro garnish and naan on the side

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken 5 Creamy Bold Delish.


  • Author: Curtis James
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken: A rich, creamy, and flavorful Indian-inspired dish that comes together fast, with tender chicken simmered in a velvety spiced tomato sauce.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp ground turmeric
  • ½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for lighter version)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
  3. Add garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook spices for 1 minute to release flavor.
  4. Pour in tomato sauce and stir well. Simmer for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
  5. Add heavy cream and return chicken to the pan. Stir, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce is creamy.
  6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving with naan or rice.

Notes

  • Option: coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version.
  • Adjust chili powder to taste for milder or hotter sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2–3 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Indian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 40 g
  • Saturated Fat: 25 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Cholesterol: 140 mg

Keywords: quick & easy, butter chicken, homemade butter chicken, creamy chicken curry, Indian-inspired, easy dinner, naan, rice