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Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

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Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a simplified take on a classic Indian-inspired dish, featuring tender chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. It’s rich, comforting, and ready in under 40 minutes — perfect for weeknight dinners.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste (or 1 cup crushed tomatoes)
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • 1 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: 1 tsp lemon juice or 1/2 tsp sugar for balance

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onions until soft and golden.
  2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in tomato paste (or crushed tomatoes) and cook for 2–3 minutes to deepen flavor.
  4. Add garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder (if using). Stir and toast for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Add chicken pieces and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
  6. Pour in cream and mix well. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce is thickened.
  7. Adjust seasoning with salt, lemon juice, or sugar as desired.
  8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for juicier meat.
  • Swap cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
  • Stir in yogurt or add spinach or peas for variation.
  • Can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen.
  • Pairs well with basmati rice or naan bread.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/quick-easy-homemade-butter-chicken/