Easy Indian Butter Chicken

Introduction

Aromatic spices, tender chicken, and a silky tomato-butter sauce come together in this Easy Indian Butter Chicken that tastes like it simmered all day, even though it didn’t. Warm garam masala, creamy richness, and a gentle hint of heat make this dish unforgettable. Unlike complicated restaurant versions, this recipe keeps things approachable without sacrificing flavor. If you love bold Indian-inspired comfort food that fits into a busy schedule, this Easy Indian Butter Chicken delivers every time. You’ll learn how to build deep flavor with simple steps, pantry spices, and foolproof techniques.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Indian Butter Chicken checks all the right boxes for home cooks. The chicken stays juicy and tender while the sauce turns luxuriously smooth and creamy. You get a beautiful contrast between lightly spiced chicken and a rich, buttery tomato base that clings to every bite. The recipe skips unnecessary marinating time, making it weeknight-friendly without losing authenticity. It also balances spice and creaminess, so it appeals to both adventurous eaters and mild-curry fans. Best of all, it uses one pan after the chicken cooks, which keeps cleanup simple. Whether you serve it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan, this dish feels indulgent but approachable, making it a reliable favorite for family dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

For this Easy Indian Butter Chicken, you’ll need straightforward ingredients that build layers of flavor. Use 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces for tenderness. Measure 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for searing and 3 tablespoons unsalted butter for richness. Add 1 medium onion, finely chopped, plus 3 cloves garlic and 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger for aroma. Spices include 2 teaspoons garam masala, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, and ½ teaspoon chili powder. Use 1 cup (240 ml) tomato puree, ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream, and ½ cup (120 ml) water or chicken broth. Finish with salt to taste and fresh cilantro.

Pro Tips

The first key tip for Easy Indian Butter Chicken is browning the chicken properly. Let the pan heat fully before adding the chicken so it sears instead of steams. This step locks in moisture and adds flavor. Second, toast your spices briefly in butter and oil before adding liquids. Heat activates their essential oils and deepens the sauce’s aroma. Third, keep the simmer gentle once cream goes in. High heat can cause separation and dull the flavor. Stir occasionally and let the sauce thicken slowly. These three techniques transform a simple butter chicken recipe into a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal effort.

Instructions

Step 1
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer, season lightly with salt, and cook until golden on all sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside. This quick sear builds flavor without fully cooking the meat.

Step 2
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in the chopped onion. Cook until soft and lightly golden, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for extra depth.

Step 3
Add garlic and ginger to the onions. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in garam masala, paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Stir well to coat the aromatics evenly.

Step 4
Pour in the tomato puree and water or broth. Stir until smooth, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.

Step 5
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Return the chicken to the pan, along with any juices. Simmer gently for another 10 minutes until the chicken cooks through and the sauce turns velvety.

Step 6
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. This Easy Indian Butter Chicken should look rich, smell aromatic, and coat the chicken beautifully.

Variations

You can adapt Easy Indian Butter Chicken in several delicious ways. For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free twist that still feels indulgent. If you prefer more heat, add extra chili powder or a spoon of chili paste. For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with roasted cauliflower or paneer cubes, following the same sauce method. You can also make an easy chicken tikka masala style version by adding a splash of yogurt and extra paprika for tang. Each variation keeps the spirit of the dish while fitting different diets and preferences.

Storage and Serving

Store leftover Easy Indian Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months. Serve it over steamed basmati rice, with warm naan, or alongside jeera rice for a classic pairing. It also works well as a filling for wraps or bowls, making leftovers just as exciting as the first serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, both work well, but thighs stay juicier.

Is this recipe very spicy?
No, it’s mildly spiced and easy to adjust.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, the flavors deepen after resting overnight.

What can I use instead of cream?
Coconut milk or cashew cream works well.

Does this taste authentic?
It’s a simplified, home-friendly version with classic flavors.

Conclusion

This Easy Indian Butter Chicken is comfort food at its finest — creamy, aromatic, and deeply satisfying without being complicated. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into something special, whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests with minimal effort.