If you’ve ever craved restaurant-style Indian butter chicken but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, you’re in for a treat! This Quick & Tasty Butter Chicken Recipe Recipe brings the authentic, creamy, and flavorful taste of traditional butter chicken to your table in under 40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you want to impress guests, this dish combines tender chicken with a velvety tomato-based sauce infused with spices and butter.
Let’s dive into this easy and delicious guide to make the best butter chicken recipe ever!
🍛 Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Butter Chicken
Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is one of the most beloved Indian dishes worldwide. Originating in Delhi, India, it features chicken cooked in a rich, spiced tomato sauce with cream and butter — resulting in a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent.
This Quick & Tasty Butter Chicken Recipe Recipe simplifies the traditional method while maintaining that authentic taste. With just a few pantry spices and minimal prep time, you can whip up a dish that rivals your favorite Indian restaurant.
🥘 Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Quick & Tasty Butter Chicken Recipe Recipe, gather the following simple ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
1 ½ pounds (700g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon salt
For the Sauce:
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a lighter version)
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
🔥 Step-by-Step: How to Make Butter Chicken Quickly
Follow these simple steps to create your Quick & Tasty Butter Chicken Recipe Recipe masterpiece:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, and spices. Add the chicken pieces and coat them evenly.
Let the mixture rest for at least 15–30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet or pan over medium-high heat with a bit of oil.
Add the marinated chicken and sear each side for about 5–7 minutes, until lightly browned and almost cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same pan, melt butter and sauté chopped onions until golden and fragrant. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
Then, add crushed tomatoes, chili powder, coriander, and garam masala. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes until it thickens and deepens in color.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Cream
Return the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir to combine. Pour in the cream, mixing gently until everything is coated in that luscious, orange-hued sauce.
Let it simmer for 10 more minutes on low heat to let the flavors meld.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and serve hot with warm naan, roti, or basmati rice.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
To make your Quick & Tasty Butter Chicken Recipe Recipe even more enjoyable, try these sides:
Steamed Basmati Rice: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Garlic Naan or Paratha: Warm, buttery flatbreads pair beautifully.
Cucumber Raita: A cool yogurt dip balances the spice.
Simple Green Salad: Adds freshness to the rich dish.
💡 Practical Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken
Here are some useful tricks to ensure your Quick & Tasty Butter Chicken Recipe Recipe turns out perfectly every time:
1. Use Boneless Thighs for Juicier Results
While chicken breast works well, thighs remain tender and flavorful even after simmering.
2. Don’t Skip the Marinade
Even a short marination time enhances the chicken’s tenderness and flavor depth.
3. Adjust the Heat
Prefer a milder curry? Reduce chili powder and garam masala. Want extra heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or fresh chili.
4. Use Quality Butter
Since butter is a key ingredient, use real unsalted butter for that authentic, velvety texture.
5. Try Dairy-Free Versions
Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter or lactose-free version.
6. Double the Sauce
Butter chicken sauce freezes beautifully! Make a double batch and freeze half for quick meals later.
🕒 Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Days
The magic of this Quick & Tasty Butter Chicken Recipe Recipe lies in its simplicity and speed. With minimal chopping, one pan, and everyday ingredients, you can have dinner ready in less than 40 minutes.
It’s a family favorite that doesn’t require fancy tools or complex techniques — just bold flavors and a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.
🧊 Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Butter chicken tastes even better the next day!
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to refresh the sauce.
🌍 Why Butter Chicken Is Loved Worldwide
Butter chicken has become a global comfort food. Whether in the United States, the United Kingdom, or Canada, people love this dish for its balance of spice, creaminess, and satisfying texture.
It’s easy to adapt to local tastes — serve it mild for kids or extra spicy for adventurous eaters. No wonder it’s a staple in both home kitchens and restaurants worldwide.
✅ Conclusion: Try It Today!
If you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, don’t wait — Try this Quick & Tasty Butter Chicken Recipe Recipe today!
With just a few ingredients and steps, you’ll create a restaurant-worthy dish that delights every time. Whether you serve it for family dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is guaranteed to become one of your favorites.
So grab your spices, heat your pan, and let the aroma of butter chicken transform your kitchen into a fragrant paradise. Once you try it, you’ll see why this Quick & Tasty Butter Chicken Recipe Recipe is loved across North America and beyond!