There’s something about Butter Chicken that just feels like a warm hug in a bowl, isn’t there? I first stumbled upon this recipe a few years back, during a chilly night when comfort food was non-negotiable. I remember the kids were grumbling about homework, and my husband had just gotten back from a long day at work. What better way to lift spirits than with a dinner that’s both hearty and bursting with flavor?
This Easy Butter Chicken is now a staple in our home, often making an appearance at least once a month. I love how it fills the kitchen with tantalizing aromas, hinting at the delicious meal to come. The best part? Even though it tastes like you’ve been slaving away in the kitchen all day, it’s actually a breeze to whip up. From the spices that warm your soul to the creamy sauce that brings it all together, this dish is a winner every time.
Last week, we had the whole family over for dinner, and I knew this was the dish to serve. It disappeared from the table in record time, leaving everyone asking for seconds. I consider that a success! And the look of pure satisfaction on my husband’s face as he dug in? Priceless. This recipe is an absolute gem for those looking to impress without the stress. So, whether you’re hosting friends or just want to treat yourself on a cozy night in, give this Easy Butter Chicken a try. Trust me, it’s worth every bite.
How to Make Easy Butter Chicken
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Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into cubes
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tsp chili powder, divided
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 1 ½ cups yellow onion, diced
- 3 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 sprinkle of cinnamon stick
- 14 oz canned tomato sauce
- 1 cup of water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
- Begin by seasoning the chicken cubes with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and turmeric in a large mixing bowl. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes to soak in the flavors.
- In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, and add the marinated chicken. Sear the pieces until they are nicely browned, then set them aside.
- Using the same pot, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onions, garam masala, the remaining teaspoon of chili powder, cumin, ginger, garlic, cayenne, and a piece of cinnamon stick. Saute everything until it becomes fragrant and the onions are tender.
- Pour in the canned tomato sauce, stirring occasionally, and bring it to a simmer.
- Gently incorporate the water and heavy cream, maintaining a gentle simmer.
- Return the browned chicken to the pot, cover, and allow it to simmer for approximately 10–15 minutes until the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
- Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter for that rich buttery finish. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt and pepper.
- Serve the butter chicken over a bed of hot rice, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Dig in and enjoy!
Customizing Easy Butter Chicken: Alternative Ingredients
If you’re out of chicken breast, chicken thighs make a juicy substitute. For a vegetarian twist, swap the chicken for paneer or chickpeas. No heavy cream? Coconut milk offers a creamy alternative while adding a hint of tropical flavor. Adjust spices to your taste, or experiment with smoked paprika for a different kick!
Best Ways to Store Easy Butter Chicken Leftovers
Keep any leftover Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When reheating, use a gentle heat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or water to maintain its creamy consistency.
Perfect Pairings for Easy Butter Chicken
This dish is divine over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or paired with warm naan bread. Add a side of sautéed spinach or a cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. To complement the rich flavors of Butter Chicken, a chilled glass of Riesling or iced tea makes for a delightful drink pairing.
Cooking Hacks to Elevate Easy Butter Chicken
Ensure the chicken is well-marinated for maximum flavor by extending the marination time up to 24 hours in the fridge. Toast your spices before cooking to unleash their full aroma. For a smoother sauce, consider blending the tomato sauce and onion mixture before adding the chicken back in.
Using What’s in Season for Butter Chicken
In summer, add fresh diced tomatoes instead of canned for a lighter feel. During fall, incorporate seasonal squash or pumpkin puree for a subtle sweetness that complements the spices beautifully. Spring and winter are perfect for adding fresh greens like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking.
FAQs:
How can I make Butter Chicken spicier?
To amp up the heat, consider adding extra cayenne pepper, fresh diced jalapeños, or a dash of red pepper flakes. You can also increase the chili powder or try using a spicy variety of garam masala. Adjust to your preference, sampling gradually to get the spice level just right.
Can I make this recipe without cream?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. These alternatives maintain the dish’s creamy texture while adding a unique flavor twist. Adjust other ingredients if needed to balance the richness these substitutes provide.
Is it possible to make Butter Chicken in advance?
Yes, Butter Chicken can be made ahead of time and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it up to two days in advance, storing it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving, adding a bit of cream or water as needed.
What’s the best rice to serve with Butter Chicken?
Basmati rice is traditionally served with Butter Chicken due to its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture. Jasmine rice is another good option, offering a slightly different but equally enjoyable experience. For a healthier choice, consider serving it with brown rice or quinoa.
Can I freeze Butter Chicken?
Definitely! After cooling, store Butter Chicken in a freezer-safe airtight container for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove. Add a splash of cream or water during reheating to revive its luscious sauce texture.
How can I adapt Butter Chicken for vegetarians?
Transform this dish into a vegetarian delight by replacing chicken with paneer or tofu cubes. Chickpeas or cauliflower florets also make excellent substitutes, providing both protein and texture. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your chosen ingredient is perfectly cooked.

Easy Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into cubes
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tsp chili powder divided
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter divided
- 1 ½ cups yellow onion diced
- 3 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 sprinkle of cinnamon stick
- 14 oz canned tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup heavy cream
For Serving:
- Cooked rice for serving
- Fresh cilantro chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Gather all the necessary ingredients for the butter chicken.
For Chicken Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, season the chicken with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and turmeric. Allow it to marinate for about 15 minutes.
For the Sauce:
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Brown the chicken on all sides and then transfer it to a plate.
- In the same pot, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the diced onion, garam masala, the remaining teaspoon of chili powder, cumin, ginger, garlic, cayenne, and the cinnamon stick. Season it with salt and pepper and sauté until it becomes aromatic.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and allow it to come to a gentle simmer.
- Add the water and heavy cream to the pot and bring to a simmer again.
- Reintroduce the browned chicken to the pot, cover it, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
- Finally, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if required.
- Serve the butter chicken over warm cooked rice, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your meal!