Few dishes can compete with the rich aroma, velvety sauce, and comforting warmth of butter chicken. This easy butter chicken recipe delivers tender, spice-marinated chicken simmered in a silky tomato-cream sauce that feels indulgent yet approachable. Every bite is packed with bold flavor, balanced heat, and a luxurious texture that makes it one of the most loved family comfort food dinners around the world.
Whether you’re searching for easy dinner ideas, quick weeknight recipes, or affordable meals that taste restaurant-quality, this homemade butter chicken checks every box. It’s simple enough for beginner cooks, budget-friendly for families, and impressive enough for entertaining guests all made in one skillet with everyday ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Butter Chicken Recipe
- Perfect for quick weeknight dinners with minimal prep
- Uses budget-friendly groceries you can find anywhere
- Creamy, rich, and satisfying cheesy comfort food vibes without cheese
- Ideal for meal prep recipes and leftovers
- Family-approved flavors that aren’t overpowering
- Beginner-friendly cooking with simple steps
Ingredient Breakdown: What Makes This Butter Chicken So Good
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for butter chicken because they stay juicy and tender during cooking. They’re also a budget-friendly protein and more forgiving than chicken breast.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt tenderizes the chicken and helps the spices cling during marination. It adds subtle tang and supports healthy cooking at home.
Garlic Powder & Fresh Garlic: Garlic provides deep savory flavor. Using both powdered and fresh garlic layers the taste beautifully.
Sweet Paprika & Curry Powder: These spices add warmth, color, and gentle complexity without overpowering the dish.
Vegetable Oil: Oil helps sear the chicken evenly and prevents burning during high-heat cooking.
Butter: Butter is the soul of this dish. It gives the sauce its signature richness and smooth mouthfeel essential for classic butter chicken comfort food.
Onion: Onions build the flavor base of the sauce, adding sweetness and depth.
Tomato Sauce: Tomato sauce forms the backbone of the curry, providing acidity and color while balancing the cream.
Heavy Cream: This creates the iconic creamy texture that makes butter chicken irresistible. It also mellows the spices perfectly.
Garam Masala: A warming spice blend that adds authentic aroma and depth.
Cayenne Pepper: Optional, but great if you enjoy a little heat. Easily adjustable for family-friendly meals.
Parsley: A fresh garnish that adds color and brightness to finish the dish.
Pro Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken Every Time
- Always preheat your skillet to ensure proper browning of the chicken.
- Marinate the chicken even for just 15 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Use cold butter at the end for a glossy, restaurant-style finish.
- Simmer gently boiling can cause the cream to separate.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end for the best balance.
Ingredient Swaps and Recipe Variations
Low-Carb Butter Chicken: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb dinner idea.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and plant-based butter for healthy recipe alternatives.
Spicy Butter Chicken: Increase cayenne or add chili paste for extra heat.
Vegetarian Butter “Chicken”: Substitute chicken with roasted cauliflower or paneer for a satisfying meatless option.
Budget-Friendly Substitution: Use chicken breast if preferred—just reduce cooking time to prevent dryness.
Serving Suggestions for the Best Meal Experience
Pair this dish with:
- Warm naan bread or flatbread
- Steamed basmati rice
- Cucumber yogurt salad
- Roasted vegetables
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
Butter chicken is excellent for meal prep ideas.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freeze for up to 2 months as one of the best freezer meals
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed
Cultural Notes: A Beloved Comfort Food Classic
Butter chicken originated in India as a way to repurpose leftover tandoori chicken, transforming it into a rich tomato-based curry. Today, it’s a global favorite and a staple of traditional family meals adapted worldwide for home kitchens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make butter chicken ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
Is butter chicken spicy?
It’s mildly spiced. Heat is adjustable to suit kids or spice lovers.
Can I make this recipe healthier?
Yes. Use light cream, less butter, or serve with whole grains for a healthier balance.
What’s the best chicken cut for butter chicken?
Chicken thighs are best for tenderness, but breasts work too.
Can I freeze butter chicken?
Absolutely. It freezes well and reheats beautifully.
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, combine chicken, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix until well coated and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet. Deglaze the pan, then add garlic and onion with a pinch of salt. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in tomato sauce and sugar. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then return chicken to the skillet. Pour in heavy cream and stir until smooth and orange in color.
- Add cayenne (if using), garam masala, curry powder, black pepper, and additional salt to taste. Simmer gently for 10 minutes.
- Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons cold butter until melted and silky. Garnish with parsley if desired.
- Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.
