Quick Tasty Butter Chicken for Weeknight Meals
A fast, flavorful homemade butter chicken made in one pan with tender chicken, warm spices, and a creamy tomato sauce. Done in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, chopped
3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp garam masala
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp ground coriander
1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk)
1/2 cup water or broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp plain yogurt (optional)
Pinch of sugar (optional)
Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cut and season chicken with salt, pepper, and yogurt (if using).
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic and ginger for 1 minute.
- Add spices and toast for 30 seconds. Stir in tomato paste.
- Add chicken and stir to coat. Cook 5–7 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add water or broth. Simmer gently. Stir in cream.
- Simmer 8–10 minutes until chicken is cooked and sauce is thickened.
- Stir in remaining 1 tbsp butter and sugar if desired.
- Adjust seasoning and garnish with cilantro.
Notes
Serve with rice or naan. Use coconut milk for dairy-free option. Freezes well.