Go Back
A serving of rich, creamy butter chicken in a bowl, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Butter Chicken in 25 Minutes

This recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and flavorful butter chicken in just 25 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Tender chicken pieces are simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce with aromatic spices.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp ginger grated
  • 1 28-oz can canned crushed tomatoes
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 0.25 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp garam masala
  • 0.5 tsp turmeric powder
  • 0.5 tsp chili powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or pot
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a large skillet or pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes.
  4. Pour in crushed tomatoes, then stir in garam masala, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and chicken to cook through.
  6. Stir in heavy cream and plain yogurt until well combined. Season with salt to taste.
  7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Notes

For extra richness, add a tablespoon of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) along with the spices. Adjust chili powder to your spice preference.