Butter Chicken is one of the most beloved comfort foods in the world—and for good reason. With its velvety tomato-cream sauce, tender pieces of marinated chicken, aromatic spices, and restaurant-style richness, this dish transforms an ordinary evening into a warm, cozy, flavorful moment. Whether you’re a busy parent rushing through weeknights, a beginner cook looking for a foolproof recipe, or a foodie who loves exploring global flavors, this Easy Homemade Butter Chicken will instantly become your new go-to meal.
This comprehensive guide is not just another recipe. It’s a full culinary walkthrough—packed with expert tips, step-by-step photos in words, variations, storage instructions, FAQs, and professional cooking insights that help you master Butter Chicken effortlessly at home.
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Why This Easy Butter Chicken Recipe Is the Best You’ll Ever Make
Cooking at home should feel rewarding—not overwhelming. That’s exactly why this updated recipe is designed to be:
⭐ Quick enough for busy nights
With a simple marinade and a one-pan cooking method, this dish comes together fast without sacrificing flavor.
⭐ Rich, creamy, and restaurant-quality
The sauce is silky smooth, mildly spiced, and layered with aromatic depth.
⭐ Beginner-friendly
Even if you’ve never cooked Indian-style dishes before, this guide walks you through each step with confidence.
⭐ Family-approved and kid-friendly
This version stays mild while still delivering full flavor, making it perfect for all ages.
⭐ Flexible
You can adjust heat levels, swap proteins, make it dairy-free, or prepare it low-calorie.
If you ever wished for a Butter Chicken recipe that never fails—this is it.
What Is Butter Chicken? (A Simple Explanation)
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, originated in Delhi. It was created accidentally when leftover tandoori chicken was combined with a creamy tomato sauce made with butter, spices, and cream. The result was a dish that quickly became a global phenomenon.
Today, Butter Chicken is recognized worldwide for its:
- smooth, creamy sauce
- mild and comforting flavor
- tender, yogurt-marinated chicken
- beautiful red-orange color
- luxurious texture
This home version gives you all the restaurant magic—without complicated steps or fancy equipment.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Fresh, Simple, Authentic)
Below is a professionally refined, beginner-friendly ingredient guide. Each ingredient is chosen for flavor, accessibility, and perfect balance.
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized cubes
- 1 cup yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp turmeric
- Salt to taste
For the Butter Chicken Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp sugar (balances tanginess)
- Salt as needed
- ½ cup cream OR ½ cup coconut cream
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
All ingredients are easily available in regular grocery stores.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Easy Butter Chicken at Home
This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Marinating ensures tender, juicy pieces of chicken that absorb the spices beautifully.
- Combine yogurt, ginger, garlic, turmeric, cumin, paprika, and salt.
- Add the diced chicken and coat evenly.
- Cover and let it rest at least 30 minutes.
- For deeper flavor, marinate 6–8 hours or overnight.
Why this step matters:
Yogurt gently breaks down the chicken fibers, keeping the meat moist during cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large non-stick skillet:
- Melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook until translucent.
- Add ginger + garlic and sauté until fragrant.
This aromatic base builds the deep flavors Butter Chicken is known for.
Step 3: Cook the Marinated Chicken
- Add the marinated chicken to the pan.
- Cook until lightly browned on all sides.
- The chicken doesn’t need to fully cook now—it will finish simmering in the sauce.
Pro Tip:
Do not overcook here. Browning adds flavor, but the sauce will do the rest!
Step 4: Create the Creamy Tomato Base
- Pour in the tomato puree.
- Add garam masala, paprika, cumin, and salt.
- Stir well, coating every piece of chicken.
- Add ½ cup water if needed.
Simmer for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the spices mellow.
Step 5: Add Cream for Richness
Lower the heat to medium-low.
- Stir in the cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free).
- Taste and adjust salt, sweetness, and spice.
- Simmer another 5–7 minutes.
The sauce will turn smooth, silky, and beautifully orange.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with:
- fresh cilantro
- optional swirl of cream
- a sprinkle of garam masala for aroma
Now your Butter Chicken is ready to enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Butter Chicken
✔ Marinate longer for the softest chicken
✔ Use butter + a little oil (prevents burning)
✔ Simmer—not boil—the sauce
✔ Add cream at the end
✔ Use a non-stick pan for the smoothest texture
✔ Balance flavors with a tiny pinch of sugar
Small details bring big results.
Variations of This Recipe
⭐ Spicy Butter Chicken
Add:
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- 1–2 chopped green chilies
⭐ Dairy-Free Version
Use:
- Coconut milk
- Coconut oil instead of butter
⭐ Vegetarian Butter “Chicken”
Replace chicken with:
- Paneer
- Chickpeas
- Tofu
- Cauliflower
⭐ Low-Calorie Version
Use:
- Low-fat yogurt
- Less butter
- ¼ cup cream instead of ½
⭐ Slow Cooker Version
Add all ingredients (except cream).
Cook on Low for 6–7 hours.
Stir in cream at the end.
Serving Suggestions
Pair Butter Chicken with:
- Fluffy basmati rice
- Garlic naan or butter naan
- Soft roti or chapati
- Cucumber raita
- Fresh salad
- Mango lassi
- Pickled onions
The combination of rich, creamy sauce with soft bread or rice is unbeatable.
How to Store, Freeze & Reheat
Refrigerate
- Store for up to 3 days
- Keep in an airtight container
Freeze
- Freeze for up to 3 months
- Thaw overnight in the fridge
Reheat
- Warm on the stovetop with 2–3 tbsp water
- Or microwave in intervals
- Add a splash of cream if the sauce thickens
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes! Thighs stay even juicier and are very flavorful.
2. Is Butter Chicken spicy?
Traditionally it is mild, but you can increase the heat to your preference.
3. Can I make it ahead?
Yes! It tastes even BETTER the next day.
4. What can I use instead of garam masala?
A mix of cumin + coriander + a pinch of cinnamon works in a pinch.
5. Why does restaurant Butter Chicken taste different?
Restaurants often use:
- more butter
- more cream
- tandoori chicken
This home version keeps it balanced, lighter, and healthier.
Nutrition Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Values vary based on specific brands and measurements.
Final Thoughts: The Joy of Cooking Butter Chicken at Home
Cooking shouldn’t feel stressful—it should feel comforting, rewarding, and full of flavor. This Easy Butter Chicken Recipe delivers exactly that. It’s simple enough for beginners, luxurious enough for special evenings, and balanced enough for everyday dinners.
With its creamy texture, spiced aroma, and tender chicken, every bite feels like a warm hug. And the best part? You created it yourself, right in your own kitchen, without complicated steps or expensive ingredients.
