Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken: A Flavorful Delight in 30 Minutes

Published : December 1, 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·Leave a Review

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is one of those dishes that has the incredible power to transform an ordinary weeknight into a culinary celebration. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and a friend of mine had come over. We both savored the rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, paired perfectly with warm naan. Now, each time I whip up this recipe, it evokes those cozy vibes, all while coming together in just about 30 minutes. Let’s dive into why this butter chicken should find a permanent spot in your recipe collection!

Delicious homemade butter chicken served with rice and naan bread

Origin of the Butter Chicken Recipe

Butter chicken, known as “Murgh Makhani” in Hindi, hails from the vibrant cuisine of India, specifically from the Punjab region. This dish was created in the 1950s at the Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi by chefs who cleverly used leftover chicken to develop a flavorful meal. The original dish combined tender chicken pieces marinated in yogurt and spices, simmered in a buttery tomato sauce laden with cream. Since then, it has made its way around the globe, gaining fans of all ages. It’s fascinating how food can bring us together, like a friend sharing tips on preparing the perfect flavorful kebab.

In my adaptation, I simplified the process without sacrificing the original’s tantalizing flavor. This quick & easy version maintains the spirit of its complex counterpart, offering a delightful balance of spices that will undoubtedly impress your taste buds.

Why This Butter Chicken Recipe Works

This quick & easy homemade butter chicken works remarkably well because of its simple yet flavorful ingredients. The interplay between the tomatoes, cream, and spices creates a creamy sauce that’s nothing short of magic. Below are several key elements that make this dish a winner:

Creamy Tomato Sauce

The foundation of butter chicken is its rich sauce. Using canned tomato sauce allows for a quicker prep time while still packing a punch in flavor. This ingredient is integrated seamlessly with spices and cream, creating an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, making dinner a delightful event.

Spices that Wow

The choice of spices in this recipe, garam masala, turmeric, and cumin, creates a symphony of flavors. Each spice contributes its unique essence, harmonizing splendidly to provide a multi-layered taste experience that dances across your palate. Garam masala is particularly noteworthy, as it’s a beloved Indian spice blend made from various spices that round out the dish’s flavor profile perfectly. For more details on spice blends, check this informative resource about garam masala.

Quick Cooking Method

One of the best aspects of this butter chicken is how swiftly it comes together. In just 30 minutes, you can create a dish worthy of a five-star restaurant at home. Sautéing the aromatic base of onions, garlic, and ginger first elevates the overall flavor and ensures that every ingredient has its spotlight in the final dish. For those busy weeknights, this quick preparation makes it feasible to enjoy homemade comfort food any evening.

Just imagine taking a few minutes to prepare this dish, savoring the rich sauce, and pairing it perfectly with fluffy naan. For a lighter meal, you could even serve it alongside a refreshing vegetable side dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions + Tips

Now, let’s break down the simple steps to create this delicious dish. Having everything prepped before starting will make the cooking process even easier.

Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients ready:

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken Breast	1 lb, cut into cubes
Onion	1 medium, finely chopped
Garlic	2 cloves, minced
Ginger	1 tablespoon, minced
Tomato Sauce	1 can (15 oz)
Heavy Cream	1/2 cup
Butter	1 tablespoon
Garam Masala	1 tablespoon
Turmeric Powder	1 teaspoon
Cumin	1 teaspoon
Salt	To taste
Fresh Cilantro	For garnish
Naan or Steamed Rice	For serving

ingredients for Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Cooking Process

Now that you’re all set, let’s begin the cooking journey:

In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat. This step is essential, as it sets the stage for a wonderfully aromatic base.
Add the finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Sauté until softened and fragrant, around 4-5 minutes.
Next, stir in the chicken cubes. Cook until the chicken is browned, ensuring it seals in the juices.
Once browned, pour in the tomato sauce and the heavy cream. This combination will create that velvety sauce we all love!
Add the garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and salt. Mix everything well, allowing the spices to mingle with the sauce.
Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial for making sure the chicken is thoroughly cooked and absorbs all the flavors.
Just before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve with warm naan or steamed rice, and enjoy your homemade delight!

Variations & Serving Ideas

While this quick & easy homemade butter chicken is already delicious, you can enhance it further with some creative variations. Here are some suggestions:

Vegetarian Option

If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, I recommend substituting chicken with extra-firm tofu or chickpeas. Both options will soak up the flavors beautifully. Cook the tofu until golden brown for an extra texture that differentiates it from the sauce, just like with the chicken.

Extra Creaminess

For a richer flavor, consider adding more cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt right before serving. This twist will lend a creamy tang and make every bite delightful.

Spice Levels

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch or two of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes when mixing in the spices. Adjust according to your preferred spiciness level!

To accompany this dish beautifully, I love to pair it with a side of garlic parmesan roasted potatoes that perfectly contrasts the creamy consistency of butter chicken. Another vibrant complement would be a fresh cucumber and tomato salad that adds crunch and balance to the meal.

A vibrant plate of quick & easy homemade butter chicken garnished with fresh cilantro, served with naan and rice.

Final Thoughts

Making quick & easy homemade butter chicken is not just about cooking; it’s about creating memories in the kitchen and sharing remarkable meals with the ones we love. Its rich flavor and ease of preparation make it a standout family favorite, embodying everything I love about cooking. Every time I prepare this dish, it not only satisfies my cravings but also reminds me of the warmth and comfort that food can bring.

I encourage you to grab these simple ingredients and immerse yourself in a cooking experience that could easily become a new family tradition. If you’re looking for more easy yet impressive dishes, explore this quick recipe for creamy taco soup. Don’t forget to check out this collection of flavors on my Pinterest page for your next cooking adventure!

FAQ

About the Author

Sarah Mitchell founder and Editorial Director of CookMinutes, develops clear, trusted, and time-saving recipes that help home cooks prepare delicious meals with confidence, even on the busiest days.

About CookMinutes

At CookMinutes, we share real recipes for real life, simple, nourishing, and tested in everyday kitchens. Our small team of passionate home cooks focuses on practical meals you can trust, from quick weeknight dinners to cozy weekend bakes. No fluff, just honest food made with care.