Easy Butter Chicken

This easy butter chicken recipe features tender chicken breast cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce with garlic, ginger, and garam masala. Perfect for serving with rice or naan for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons (28 g) butter, divided
• 2 pounds (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-size pieces
• 5 cloves garlic (about 5 teaspoons), minced
• 2-inch (5 cm) fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 15-ounce (400 ml) can tomato sauce or passata
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro for garnish

For Serving

• Cooked rice
• Naan bread

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Instructions

Brown the Chicken

1. In a frying pan, heat vegetable oil and melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Add diced chicken and brown until golden. Push chicken to one side of the pan.

Cook Aromatics and Spices

1. Melt the remaining butter in the empty side of the pan.
2. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in cumin, garam masala, chili powder, smoked paprika, turmeric, and salt. Cook for another minute.

Add Tomato Sauce and Simmer

1. Pour in the tomato sauce (passata) and mix everything together.
2. Cover with a lid and simmer on medium heat for 5–10 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld.

Finish the Sauce

1. Remove the lid and stir in the cream. Allow the sauce to reduce slightly.
2. Serve warm over rice or with naan bread. Garnish with chopped parsley, mint, or cilantro.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, flavorful butter chicken made quickly on the stovetop.
• Tender chicken with a rich, spiced tomato sauce.
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
• Minimal prep with maximum taste.

Tips

• Even cooking: Dice chicken into uniform pieces for consistent cooking.
• Simmer gently: Avoid high heat to keep the chicken tender.
• Adjust creaminess: Add more cream if you prefer a richer sauce.
• Fresh herbs: Use parsley, mint, or cilantro for a bright finish.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein alternatives: Use chicken thighs for juicier results.
• Dairy-free: Substitute cream with coconut milk.
• Spice level: Adjust chili powder for mild or more heat.
• Add vegetables: Bell peppers or peas can be added for extra texture.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, butter chicken freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What should I serve it with?
Rice, naan, or even quinoa works well. Add a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over steamed basmati rice with a drizzle of extra cream.
• Pair with warm naan or flatbread to soak up the sauce.
• Garnish with chopped fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.
• Great for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner.