Craving a warm and rich dish that’s easy to make? You’re in the right place! This Quick Butter Chicken recipe packs flavor and comfort in just a few steps. I’ll walk you through simple ingredients, cooking tips, and tasty variations. Whether you’re a busy parent or a first-time cook, you can make this dish shine in your kitchen. Let’s dive in and create something delicious!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Quick Butter Chicken
To make Quick Butter Chicken, you need the following main ingredients:
– 500g boneless chicken thighs, diced into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust based on your spice preference)
– 400g canned crushed tomatoes
– 200ml coconut milk
– Salt to taste
These ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy dish that is both flavorful and satisfying.
Optional Seasonings and Garnishes
You can enhance your Quick Butter Chicken with these optional seasonings and garnishes:
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Lime wedges (for added zest)
These extras can brighten the dish and add fresh notes.
Suggested Accompaniments
For a complete meal, serve your Quick Butter Chicken with:
– Cooked basmati rice
– Warm naan bread
These sides soak up the sauce and make each bite delightful. Enjoy this warm meal with your favorite drink for a cozy experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes cooking smooth and quick.
– 500g boneless chicken thighs, diced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 400g canned crushed tomatoes
– 200ml coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
– Cooked basmati rice or warm naan bread, for serving
Now, you’re ready to cook!
Cooking Process Overview
In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. This should take about a minute.
Add the chopped onion and cook for around 5 minutes. You want it soft and clear.
Next, mix in the garlic and ginger. Stir for 1-2 minutes. The aroma will be amazing!
Now, it’s time for the spices. Sprinkle in the garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. Stir for 1 minute to let the spices bloom.
Add the diced chicken. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Simmering and Final Touches
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and coconut milk. Stir well to blend everything.
Now, add salt to your taste.
Lower the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked.
Before serving, sprinkle chopped cilantro on top. This adds a fresh touch.
Serve your butter chicken hot over basmati rice or with warm naan bread. Enjoy the flavors!
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor Profiles
To boost flavor in your butter chicken, use fresh spices. Fresh ginger and garlic add depth. Feel free to adjust spices based on your taste. If you like heat, add more chili powder. Adding a squeeze of lime juice brightens the dish. Experiment with different herbs like mint or basil for a twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. This can make it tough. Cook until just done, then simmer. Another mistake is not to toast the spices. Toasting brings out their true flavors. Also, remember to season with salt. Taste as you go to get it right.
Best Practices for Cooking Chicken
Use boneless chicken thighs for more flavor. Dice them into even pieces for uniform cooking. Start with medium heat to brown the chicken nicely. Once browned, let it simmer gently. This helps the chicken soak up the sauce flavors. Always check if the chicken is cooked through before serving.

Variations
Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives
You can easily make butter chicken vegetarian. Use cubed tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken. For a vegan twist, replace butter with coconut oil. Use plant-based yogurt or cashew cream for the creamy texture. This keeps the dish rich and flavorful without animal products.
Different Spice Levels
Adjust the heat to your liking. For a mild dish, reduce chili powder to half a teaspoon. If you love spice, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Remember, you can always add heat, but it’s hard to take it away. Start small, then taste as you go.
Ingredient Swaps for Dietary Preferences
This recipe is flexible. If you avoid gluten, serve it with rice instead of naan. For a lower-carb option, use cauliflower rice. If you’re dairy-free, make sure to check your coconut milk brand for additives. You can also substitute crushed tomatoes with tomato puree for a smoother sauce.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your butter chicken fresh, place it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools to room temperature first. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to save it longer, consider freezing.
Reheating Recommendations
When you are ready to eat the leftovers, use the stovetop for the best result. Pour the butter chicken into a pan and heat it on low. Stir it often to avoid burning. You can also use a microwave. Just cover the dish and warm it in short bursts. Stir in between to ensure even heating.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your butter chicken, use a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to two months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat as mentioned above.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook butter chicken?
It takes about 30 minutes to make butter chicken. You spend 10 minutes prepping and 20 minutes cooking. This quick recipe lets you enjoy a tasty meal without a long wait. Start by melting butter and olive oil, then add onions, garlic, and spices. After that, cook the chicken before adding tomatoes and coconut milk. Let it simmer, and your dish is ready!
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs. Chicken breast is leaner but can dry out if overcooked. Keep an eye on the cooking time. Brown the chicken pieces just like you would with thighs. The flavors will still be great with the spices and sauce!
What can I serve with butter chicken?
You can serve butter chicken with basmati rice or warm naan bread. Both options soak up the rich sauce well. For extra flavor, add fresh cilantro on top. You can also include lime wedges for a zesty kick. Enjoy your meal with a side salad for freshness!
In this blog post, we explored how to make quick butter chicken. We covered main ingredients, optional seasonings, and suggested sides. You learned step-by-step instructions from prep to cooking. We also shared tips to boost flavor and avoid mistakes. Variations included vegetarian options and spice adjustments. Lastly, we discussed storage and reheating.
Butter chicken is a tasty dish you can easily make at home. Enjoy experimenting with the flavors!
