Flavorful Easy Butter Chicken Recipe Ready in 50 Minutes

Easy Butter Chicken Indian Recipe: A Quick and Flavorful Homemade Delight

Are you tired of ordering takeout when a craving for Indian flavors hits?

According to a recent survey by TasteAtlas, butter chicken ranks among the top 10 most popular Indian dishes worldwide, with millions searching for “easy butter chicken recipe” every month.

But what if I told you that you could whip up this creamy, aromatic favorite at home in under an hour, without sacrificing that authentic taste?

In this post, I’ll share my go-to “Indian butter chicken” recipe, inspired by Chef Emy’s simple yet decadent approach.

It’s perfect for beginners, offering tender chicken in a rich, tomato-based sauce that’s both comforting and quick.

Whether you’re a busy parent or a cooking enthusiast, this homemade butter chicken recipe will transform your weeknight dinners into something special.

About This Recipe

When it comes to “butter chicken,” also known as murgh makhani, it’s all about balancing bold spices with creamy indulgence.

This version stands out for its straightforward preparation, making it an ideal “quick butter chicken” option that’s accessible to anyone.

Unlike traditional recipes that might require hours of marinating or complex techniques, Chef Emy’s take uses everyday ingredients to deliver that signature velvety sauce without overwhelming your kitchen.

What makes this recipe truly unique is its ease and flavor profile.

The tender chicken thighs absorb the spices beautifully, while the tomato puree and heavy cream create a sauce that’s rich but not overly heavy.

It’s a dish that captures the essence of Indian cuisine—warm, comforting, and full of depth—yet it’s ready in just 50 minutes.

If you’re new to Indian cooking, this “homemade butter chicken recipe” is your gateway to exploring flavors like garam masala and ginger-garlic paste, all while keeping things simple and approachable.

Why I Love This Recipe

As someone who’s been experimenting with Indian recipes for years, this “easy butter chicken recipe” holds a special place in my heart.

It reminds me of my first trip to India, where I savored butter chicken at a bustling street stall in Delhi.

The aroma of spices wafting through the air was unforgettable, and recreating that magic at home has become a personal ritual.

What I love most is how versatile and forgiving it is.

It’s not just about the taste—though the creamy sauce and juicy chicken are divine—it’s about the joy it brings to the table.

Whether I’m cooking for a family gathering or a quiet night in, this dish turns ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

It’s become my go-to for impressing guests, and the fact that it’s a “quick butter chicken” means I can enjoy it without spending the whole evening in the kitchen.

Plus, the compliments I get every time make it feel like a shared triumph.

Ingredients List

To make this “Indian butter chicken,” you’ll need a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors.

Here’s the full list, based on Chef Emy’s recommendations.

I’ve also included substitution ideas to make it adaptable for various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dish.

• 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces: These provide juicy, tender meat that absorbs the marinade beautifully. For a leaner option, swap with boneless chicken breasts, though they might cook a bit faster.
• 1 cup plain yogurt: Acts as the base for the marinade, adding tanginess and helping tenderize the chicken. Use Greek yogurt for extra creaminess, or opt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt if you’re lactose-intolerant.
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste: This aromatic duo infuses the dish with warmth and depth. If you don’t have paste on hand, mince fresh ginger and garlic for a more pungent flavor.
• 1 tablespoon chili powder: Brings a gentle heat that’s adjustable to your preference. For a milder version, use paprika; for more spice, incorporate cayenne pepper.
• 1 tablespoon garam masala: A blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and cardamom that defines the “butter chicken” essence. If unavailable, mix your own with equal parts of these spices.
• Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust as needed.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Provides that signature richness. For a healthier twist, use ghee or a plant-based butter alternative.
• 1 large onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and texture to the sauce. Yellow onions work best, but red onions can offer a sharper note.
• 2 cups tomato puree: Forms the hearty base of the sauce, balancing acidity with the cream. Fresh blended tomatoes are ideal, but canned puree works in a pinch.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxurious, creamy finish. To lighten it up, substitute with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Fresh coriander for garnish: Adds a burst of freshness and color. Cilantro is a great stand-in if coriander is hard to find.

These ingredients not only make the recipe straightforward but also allow for sensory delights—like the sizzle of chicken in the pan or the fragrant steam rising from the sauce.

Experimenting with substitutions can personalize the dish while keeping it true to its roots.

Timing

Time is precious in the kitchen, especially when preparing a flavorful dish like this “homemade butter chicken recipe.”

Based on Chef Emy’s details, here’s a breakdown:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes – This includes marinating the chicken, which infuses it with flavors without requiring overnight waiting.
• Cook Time: 30 minutes – From browning the chicken to simmering the sauce, the actual cooking is efficient and hands-on.
• Total Time: 50 minutes – That’s about 20% faster than many traditional butter chicken recipes, which can take over an hour due to extended marinating or multiple cooking stages, according to data from culinary sites like BBC Good Food.

In comparison, a standard Indian curry might demand 70-90 minutes, but this “quick butter chicken” streamlines the process, making it ideal for weeknights.

Think of it as a time-saver that doesn’t compromise on taste, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in less than an hour.

How to Prepare This Dish

Preparing this “easy butter chicken recipe” is all about building layers of flavor with minimal effort.

I’ll guide you through the process with personalized tips drawn from my own experiences in the kitchen.

The key is to focus on convenience—using store-bought ginger-garlic paste saves time, and opting for pre-chopped onions can cut down prep work even further.

This method emphasizes simplicity, ensuring you get that creamy, aromatic result without stress.

Start by marinating the chicken to lock in flavors, then move to cooking and assembling the sauce.

I’ll share shortcuts, like using a blender for the tomato puree if you’re short on time, to make this dish even more accessible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the 2 lbs of boneless chicken thighs with 1 cup of plain yogurt, 2 tablespoons of ginger-garlic paste, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of garam masala, and salt to taste.

Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.

Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—this step is crucial for tender, flavorful meat.

Pro tip: For deeper infusion, marinate in the fridge for up to 2 hours.

A common pitfall is not mixing well, which can lead to uneven seasoning—use your hands to massage the marinade into the chicken for the best results.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pan over medium heat.

Add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s browned on all sides, about 10-15 minutes.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to achieve that perfect golden sear.

A mistake I’ve made is rushing this step—low and slow ensures juicy chicken without drying it out.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.

Once melted, sauté the finely chopped onion until it’s golden and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Then, stir in the 2 cups of tomato puree and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Actionable tip: If the puree is too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.

Watch out for burning the onions, which can make the sauce bitter—keep the heat medium and stir frequently.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, along with any remaining marinade.

Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir everything together.

Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked through.

Shortcut: If you’re in a hurry, use a lid to speed up simmering, but keep an eye on it to avoid over-reduction.

A pitfall to avoid is adding too much cream at once—it can make the sauce overly rich, so add gradually.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the sauce has thickened, remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander.

Serve hot with naan, rice, or your favorite sides.

Personal insight: I love adding a squeeze of lemon at this stage for a zesty lift.

The key mistake here is serving too soon—let it rest for a minute to enhance the flavors.

Mistakes I’ve Made and Learned From

Over the years, I’ve had my share of kitchen mishaps with this “butter chicken” recipe, and they’ve taught me valuable lessons.

For instance, I once skipped chilling the marinade properly, resulting in bland chicken.

Another time, I didn’t stir the sauce enough, leading to uneven thickening.

These experiences underscore the importance of patience—rushing can affect both texture and taste.

By learning from these errors, I’ve refined my approach to ensure every batch is a success.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutritional content for this “easy butter chicken recipe,” based on standard serving sizes.

Remember, actual values can vary depending on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/4 recipe)
Calories	450 kcal
Carbohydrates	12g
Fat	28g
Protein	40g
Sugar	6g

In bullet points:

• Calories: Provides sustained energy from a balance of proteins and fats.
• Carbohydrates: Mostly from tomatoes and onions, offering fiber for digestion.
• Fat: From butter and cream, contributing to the dish’s creamy texture.
• Protein: High from chicken, supporting muscle repair.
• Sugar: Natural sugars from tomatoes, kept low for a balanced meal.

Health and Nutrition

Diving deeper, the ingredients in this “Indian butter chicken” offer surprising health benefits.

Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, aiding in muscle growth and repair.

Tomatoes in the puree are packed with lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers, as per studies from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Yogurt adds probiotics, promoting gut health, while ginger-garlic paste brings anti-inflammatory properties that can boost immunity.

Garam masala’s spices, like turmeric in some blends, have been linked to reduced inflammation.

Overall, this dish isn’t just tasty; it’s a nutritious choice when enjoyed in moderation.

How it Fits in a Healthy Lifestyle

Incorporating this “quick butter chicken” into a healthy lifestyle is easier than you might think.

It’s naturally gluten-free, and with substitutions like coconut milk for cream, it can become dairy-free or vegan-friendly using plant-based chicken alternatives.

Mindful portions—about 1 cup per serving—help control calorie intake, making it suitable for balanced diets.

I often pair it with brown rice for added fiber, turning it into a wholesome meal.

As nutrition experts from Harvard Health suggest, enjoying such dishes in moderation supports a varied diet without derailing health goals.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this “homemade butter chicken recipe” even healthier, try these swaps: Use low-fat yogurt instead of plain for reduced calories, or opt for skinless chicken to cut down on fat.

Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a protein boost, and add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra vitamins.

These changes maintain the dish’s essence while enhancing its nutritional profile.

Taste and Texture

The beauty of this “butter chicken” lies in its harmonious taste and texture.

The chicken is tender and succulent, contrasting with the smooth, velvety sauce that’s tangy from tomatoes and creamy from the dairy.

Spices add a warm, aromatic depth, with just the right kick from chili powder.

Each bite delivers a juicy, flavorful experience that’s both comforting and exciting.

Boosting the Flavor

Elevate your “easy butter chicken recipe” with creative additions.

Try stirring in a teaspoon of fenugreek leaves for an authentic earthy note, or drizzle with honey for a subtle sweetness.

Nuts like cashews can add crunch, while a splash of lime juice brightens the overall profile—endless ways to make it your own.

Tips for Success

For the best results, use fresh spices to maximize flavor, and measure ingredients accurately.

Chilling the marinade longer enhances tenderness, and simmering on low heat prevents the sauce from splitting.

Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving—these small steps make a big difference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid common pitfalls like overcooking the chicken, which can make it tough, or adding too much salt early on.

Another error is not blending the sauce smoothly—use a blender if needed for that perfect consistency.

Learning from these helps ensure a flawless dish every time.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this “Indian butter chicken” with warm naan for scooping up the sauce, or pair it with basmati rice for a classic combo.

For a twist, try it with quinoa for a healthier option.

Pair with a chilled Indian lager or a light Chardonnay to complement the spices, and present in a colorful bowl with garnishes for visual appeal.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to maintain creaminess.

For freezing, portion into bags and keep for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

This “easy butter chicken recipe” is a simple way to bring authentic Indian flavors to your table quickly and deliciously.

With its rich taste and adaptable nature, it’s perfect for any occasion.

Try it tonight and share your thoughts in the comments—leave a review, subscribe for more recipes, and let’s cook together!