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Quick and easy butter chicken simmered in creamy tomato sauce with rice and cilantro

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

This quick and easy butter chicken recipe is perfect for busy nights. With rich tomato gravy, warm spices, and creamy sauce, it’s a comforting Indian-inspired dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 425
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs cut into chunks
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp ginger grated
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 0.5 tsp turmeric
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp chili powder optional
  • 0.25 cup tomato paste
  • 0.5 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • fresh cilantro for garnish

Equipment

  • Skillet

Method
 

  1. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Sauté onions until golden, then add garlic and ginger. Stir until fragrant.
  3. Add all spices and stir for 30 seconds.
  4. Mix in tomato paste and sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Add chicken pieces and coat well in the sauce.
  6. Pour in cream, stir, and simmer until chicken is cooked through—about 10–15 minutes.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Notes

You can customize the recipe by using yogurt instead of cream, swapping chicken for tofu or chickpeas, or adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers. Leftovers store well in the fridge for 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.