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Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe – those words alone conjure images of vibrant hues and the tantalizing aromas of one of India’s most cherished culinary masterpieces. Have you ever found yourself craving that incredibly rich, luxuriously creamy, and subtly spiced butter chicken from your favorite Indian restaurant, only to dismiss the idea of recreating it at home as being too daunting or time-consuming? Well, I am absolutely thrilled to share that those days of hesitation are now behind us! This iconic dish, known affectionately as Murgh Makhani in its native Hindi, proudly traces its origins back to Delhi, India, in the mid-20th century, emerging from the heart of Punjabi cuisine. It quickly captivated palates worldwide with its unparalleled combination of succulent, tender chicken enveloped in a velvety-smooth tomato and butter-based sauce, often enriched with cream and a symphony of aromatic spices.

People adore butter chicken not merely for its exquisite, balanced flavors—a perfect harmony of sweet, tangy, and savory notes—but also for its incredibly satisfying, comforting texture that simply melts in your mouth. My mission today is to gracefully demystify this beloved classic and empower you to craft a truly authentic and incredibly flavorful Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe right in your own kitchen. Prepare to discover that restaurant-quality Indian cuisine is absolutely within your grasp, even on the busiest of weeknights!

Ingredients:

  • For the Chicken Marinade:

    • 1.5 lbs (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
    • ½ cup plain full-fat yogurt (Greek yogurt works exceptionally well for its thickness)

    • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (you can make this by grating fresh ginger and mincing fresh garlic, or use a store-bought paste)
    • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (for color and earthy notes)

    • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (Kashmiri chili powder is recommended for a vibrant red color and mild heat; use regular chili powder for more spice)
    • 1 teaspoon garam masala (a warming spice blend crucial for Indian cooking)
    • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste, remember we’ll season the sauce too)

    • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (helps tenderize the chicken and brightens flavors)

  • For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

    • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus an extra pat for finishing

    • 1 tablespoon olive oil or neutral vegetable oil (to prevent the butter from burning)
    • 1 large yellow onion, very finely chopped (consistency is key here for a smooth sauce)
    • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (another round for the depth of the sauce)

    • 1 teaspoon ground cumin (adds a warm, earthy flavor)
    • 1 teaspoon ground coriander (offers a citrusy, sweet, and nutty undertone)
    • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder (for color and mild earthy flavor)

    • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (again, Kashmiri recommended for color, or regular for heat)
    • ½ teaspoon garam masala (to infuse more warmth and complexity into the sauce base)
    • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (or approximately 2 cups of fresh tomato puree for a brighter taste)

    • ½ cup water or chicken broth (to help thin the sauce to the right consistency)
    • ¼ cup cashew butter or ¼ cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 15 minutes and then blended with a little water until perfectly smooth (this is the secret to the sauce’s incredible richness and creamy texture)
    • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (to perfectly balance the acidity of the tomatoes)

    • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste (we will adjust this later)
    • ½ cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk if you prefer a dairy-free alternative, contributing to the luxurious mouthfeel)
    • 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), crushed between your palms (an absolutely essential ingredient for authentic butter chicken flavor, providing a unique, slightly bitter, maple-like aroma)

  • For Garnish:

    • Fresh cilantro, generously chopped (adds freshness and color)
    • A delicate drizzle of heavy cream (for an appealing presentation and extra richness)

    • Extra small pats of butter (for ultimate indulgence, enhancing the “butter” in butter chicken)

Preparing the Chicken: Marination Magic for Maximum Flavor

  1. Let’s kick things off with our chicken! In a spacious mixing bowl, combine your beautifully cubed boneless chicken pieces. Add in the rich, full-fat plain yogurt, which not only acts as a tenderizer but also helps the spices cling to the chicken. Follow this with the pungent ginger-garlic paste, the golden turmeric powder, the vibrant red chili powder (Kashmiri if you have it!), the fragrant garam masala, a sprinkle of salt, and a refreshing squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
  2. Now for the fun part: get your hands in there! Using clean hands, thoroughly mix all these wonderful ingredients together. Make sure every single piece of chicken is completely coated with this aromatic marinade. This hands-on approach ensures an even distribution of flavor and a proper massage for the chicken, leading to a more tender final product. The goal is to create a vibrant, spice-infused coating that will become incredibly delicious when cooked.

  3. Once your chicken is perfectly coated, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. For the best, most succulent, and intensely flavorful results, I highly recommend letting it marinate in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 hours. If you can plan ahead, marinating it overnight will yield truly spectacular results, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply into the chicken fibers. However, if you’re in a pinch for time and truly aiming for a “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe,” even a 30-minute marinade at room temperature will still impart some delicious flavor and help with tenderness. Remember, the longer the marination, the deeper the flavor!

Building the Rich and Creamy Sauce: The Heart of Your Butter Chicken

  1. While your chicken is absorbing all those fantastic flavors, let’s get started on the star of the show: the butter chicken sauce! Grab a large, heavy-bottomed pot or a sturdy Dutch oven. This type of cookware is ideal as it distributes heat evenly, minimizing the risk of your sauce sticking or burning. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. The oil is a clever addition here, as it raises the butter’s smoke point, preventing it from burning too quickly and turning bitter.
  2. As soon as the butter is beautifully shimmering, add your very finely chopped large yellow onion to the pot. Sauté the onions gently, stirring frequently, until they become wonderfully soft, translucent, and just start to develop a light golden hue. This crucial step typically takes about 7-10 minutes. Please, resist the urge to rush this process! Properly cooked onions are the secret to building a naturally sweet and deep flavor base for our sauce. They contribute significantly to the rich, nuanced profile we’re striving for. You’ll notice a delightful, sweet aroma beginning to waft through your kitchen as they caramelize ever so slightly.

  3. Next, stir in the second batch of ginger-garlic paste. Continue to cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. It’s important to be vigilant here; ginger and garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter if overcooked. You’ll know it’s perfectly ready when you can distinctly smell their pungent, aromatic deliciousness filling the air. This adds another layer of fundamental Indian flavor.
  4. Now, it’s time to introduce our aromatic dry spices! Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala to the pot. Stir these vibrant spices into the onion and ginger-garlic mixture and cook for a very brief 30-60 seconds. This technique is often referred to as “blooming” the spices. Briefly toasting them in the hot oil helps to release their essential oils, intensifying their flavors and aromas, making your sauce much more complex and vibrant. Keep stirring constantly to prevent them from scorching.
  5. Carefully pour in the entire can of crushed tomatoes. If you’ve opted for fresh tomato puree, that works beautifully too. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. Then, add ½ cup of water or chicken broth. This liquid helps to thin the sauce slightly, ensuring it doesn’t become too thick too soon, and aids in the simmering process.

  6. Stir in the cashew butter (or your homemade blended cashews) and the granulated sugar. The cashew butter is a game-changer; it imparts an unparalleled creaminess, body, and richness, making the sauce incredibly luxurious and velvety. The sugar is absolutely essential here to expertly balance the natural acidity from the tomatoes, rounding out the flavors to perfection. Add 1 teaspoon of salt at this stage; we’ll adjust for final seasoning later.
  7. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and allow it to cook undisturbed for at least 15-20 minutes. This slow simmering period is vital, as it gives all the flavors ample time to meld together beautifully and helps the tomatoes break down completely, contributing to a smoother texture. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent any sticking to the bottom of the pot. This patient, slow simmer is the secret to a truly deeply flavored and delicious butter chicken sauce.
  8. After simmering, carefully remove the pot from the heat. For that ultimate, silky-smooth, restaurant-quality sauce, I highly recommend using an immersion blender to blend the sauce directly in the pot until it reaches a velvety consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can meticulously transfer the sauce in batches to a regular blender. When blending hot liquids, please be extremely cautious: ensure the blender lid is properly vented (or leave a corner slightly ajar) and cover the top with a kitchen towel to prevent any pressure build-up. Blend until absolutely no chunks remain, then carefully return the perfectly smooth sauce to the pot.

Cooking the Chicken and Bringing it All Together: The Grand Assembly

  1. While your glorious sauce is simmering or undergoing its blending transformation, you can begin cooking your eagerly marinated chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil or another small pat of butter in a separate large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to get a good sear.
  2. Once the skillet is smoking slightly, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan, as this will cause the chicken to steam instead of beautifully brown. If necessary, cook the chicken in two separate batches to ensure each piece gets that lovely, flavorful crust.
  3. Cook the chicken for approximately 3-5 minutes per side, until it’s wonderfully browned and mostly cooked through. It doesn’t need to be entirely cooked at this stage, as it will finish cooking gently in the sauce. The browning process is crucial as it adds fantastic depth of flavor and a pleasing texture to the chicken, preventing it from being bland. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

  4. Now, for the magical moment where our delicious components unite! Gently add the browned chicken pieces directly into the pot with your smooth, rich, and fragrant butter chicken sauce. Stir carefully to ensure that every single piece of chicken is submerged and thoroughly coated in the luxurious sauce.
  5. Bring the sauce with the chicken back to a very gentle simmer over low heat. Cover the pot with its lid and allow it to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through, wonderfully tender, and has had ample time to absorb all those incredible flavors from the sauce. This simmering allows the chicken to become incredibly juicy and infused with the essence of butter chicken.

Finishing Touches and Serving Our Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

  1. We’re in the home stretch! Remove the pot from the heat. Now, stir in the heavy cream. This is the moment the sauce truly gets its final, luscious creaminess and achieves that iconic pale orange hue. If you’re using full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version, this is also the perfect time to add it. Stir until it’s completely incorporated and the sauce is beautifully homogenous and inviting.

  2. The absolute secret ingredient for truly authentic butter chicken is dried fenugreek leaves, also known as kasuri methi. Take about 1 teaspoon of these dried leaves and crush them firmly between your palms directly over the pot. This crushing action releases their unique, slightly bitter, yet wonderfully aromatic, maple-like fragrance, which is absolutely essential for achieving that classic, unmistakable butter chicken flavor. Stir it into the sauce until well combined. Seriously, do not skip this ingredient if you desire that genuine restaurant-quality taste!
  3. Now, it’s time for the final taste test! Sample the sauce and carefully adjust the seasoning as needed. You might find it needs a little more salt, a tiny pinch more sugar if the tomatoes are particularly tart, or another whisper of garam masala for an extra warming spice kick. Remember, you are the master chef, and your taste buds are the ultimate guide to perfection!
  4. For an ultimate touch of indulgence and that extra “butter” in your butter chicken, swirl in an additional small pat of unsalted butter right before you’re ready to serve. This will add an extra layer of velvety richness and a beautiful sheen to your finished dish, making it look and taste truly irresistible.

  5. Your “Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe” is now triumphantly ready to be savored! Ladle generous portions of this comforting dish into individual bowls. Garnish lavishly with freshly chopped cilantro, which adds a burst of freshness, and a final elegant drizzle of heavy cream, if desired, for both visual appeal and an extra touch of luxury.
  6. Serve this incredible homemade butter chicken piping hot with your favorite traditional accompaniments. It pairs absolutely perfectly with fluffy basmati rice, warm and buttery garlic naan bread, or even some simple, soft roti. The rich, creamy sauce is absolutely divine for soaking up with bread, ensuring not a drop goes to waste. Take a moment to truly enjoy the incredible, comforting flavors of this homemade delight! It’s a wonderfully satisfying meal that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Indian restaurant, but with the added warmth and love of being made right in your own kitchen.

Delicious Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

 

Conclusion:

As we reach the end of our culinary journey together, I truly hope you’re feeling inspired and excited to bring the magic of this dish into your own kitchen. I know how daunting preparing a classic Indian meal can seem, with its vibrant spices and rich textures, but I promise you, this particular recipe is designed to demystify the process and deliver unparalleled flavor with surprising ease. This isn’t just another meal; it’s an experience, a delightful journey for your taste buds that will leave you wondering why you ever hesitated to make it from scratch. The depth of flavor, the velvety smooth sauce, and the tender, succulent chicken pieces come together in a symphony of taste that rivals any restaurant rendition.

What truly sets this recipe apart is its incredible balance. It’s rich and decadent without being overly heavy, aromatic without being overwhelmingly spicy, and comforting in a way that feels like a warm hug. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a gourmet chef, even on a weeknight when time is precious. The satisfaction of simmering a pot of such fragrant goodness on your stovetop, knowing every ingredient that goes into it, is a joy that store-bought versions simply cannot replicate. We’ve meticulously crafted this guide to ensure that every step is straightforward, every spice purposeful, leading you to a triumphant culinary creation that will impress family and friends alike. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to explore a world of flavor right in your own home, with the confidence that you’re about to create something truly special.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making this incredible dish, let’s talk about how to truly elevate your dining experience. While it’s undeniably delicious on its own, a few thoughtful accompaniments can transform your meal into a lavish feast. My absolute favorite way to serve this Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is alongside a generous helping of fluffy Basmati rice, its delicate grains perfectly absorbing the rich, creamy sauce. But don’t stop there! A warm, pillowy stack of garlic naan is practically a non-negotiable – perfect for scooping up every last drop of that incredible gravy. If you’re feeling ambitious, a simple homemade roti or paratha would also be divine. To add a refreshing contrast, a cooling cucumber raita – a simple yogurt dip – can cut through the richness beautifully, and a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette can provide a welcome lightness to the plate. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a few julienned ginger pieces over the top for that authentic touch and a burst of fresh flavor.

But the beauty of home cooking lies in its adaptability, and this recipe is wonderfully versatile. While chicken is traditional, don’t hesitate to experiment! For a delightful vegetarian alternative, you could easily substitute the chicken with cubes of paneer, a firm Indian cheese, or even chunks of roasted cauliflower or chickpeas for a plant-based option. If you prefer a leaner protein, shrimp or firm white fish would also cook beautifully in the same aromatic sauce, requiring just a slightly shorter cooking time. Feeling adventurous with spice? Add an extra green chili, finely minced, at the tempering stage for an added kick, or a pinch more cayenne pepper. For those who enjoy a tangier profile, a tablespoon of plain yogurt or a squeeze of lime juice stirred in at the end can brighten up the flavors. You could also experiment with different garnishes – a drizzle of fresh cream or a few toasted cashew halves can add both visual appeal and textural interest. This recipe is a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity, so feel free to make it your own!

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to preheat your pan, gather your ingredients, and embark on this incredibly rewarding cooking adventure. I am genuinely so excited for you to experience the sheer delight of creating this dish from your own kitchen. Trust me, the aroma alone as it simmers will be enough to make your mouth water and your anticipation build. This recipe is more than just instructions; it’s an invitation to create memories, share laughter around the dinner table, and savor truly exceptional food. Don’t let anything hold you back from discovering how utterly simple and incredibly delicious making this classic can be.

Once you’ve whipped up your very own batch of this magnificent butter chicken, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the recipe, or did you add your own unique twist? What did your family and friends think? Please, don’t be shy – share your stories, your triumphs, and even your kitchen adventures with us. Your feedback and personal touches not only inspire me but also help others in our cooking community. Take a photo of your masterpiece and tell us all about it. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how much you loved it!

Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

A quick, easy, and delicious homemade butter chicken recipe, capturing the rich, creamy, and subtly spiced flavors of this cherished Indian culinary masterpiece. Prepare to craft restaurant-quality Indian cuisine right in your own kitchen!

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika

  • 0.5 teaspoon curry powder

  • 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt

  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

  • 3 tablespoons butter, divided

  • 6 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste

  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 cups heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Step 1
    In a bowl, combine chicken chunks with 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp sweet paprika, ½ tsp curry powder, and 1 tbsp Greek yogurt. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or longer for best results).
  2. Step 2
    Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken in a single layer; cook for 3-5 minutes per side until beautifully browned and mostly cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Step 3
    In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt 2 tbsp butter with 2 tbsp vegetable oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté gently until soft, translucent, and lightly golden (about 7-10 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  4. Step 4
    Pour in the 15-ounce can of tomato sauce. Add 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Step 5
    Stir in 2 cups heavy cream until fully incorporated and the sauce is beautifully homogenous. Gently add the browned chicken pieces into the sauce. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and wonderfully tender.
  6. Step 6
    Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed (more salt, sugar, or pepper). Swirl in the remaining 1 tbsp butter just before serving for ultimate richness and a glossy finish. Serve your homemade butter chicken piping hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.



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