Easy 30 Minutes Indian Butter Chicken

This Crazy Easy 30 minutes Butter Chicken recipe gives you all the flavors of authentic restaurant-style butter chicken without the labor and time. It comes together quickly and is the perfect midweek pick-me-up. Serve with cooked rice and a salad on the side for a complete dinner meal.

I used to enjoy Indian takeout, okay, enjoy is an understatement. Although it doesn’t happen often, one of my favorite dishes to order at an Indian restaurant is this easy butter chicken recipe. It’s smooth, velvety, creamy, and just so flavorful.

Of course, I had to try making it at home. And after a few changes, I’ve got a recipe that I’m happy with. And I think you’ll be happy with it too because you can have butter chicken in about 20 minutes. I’m not joking.

The secret ingredient here is….

The spice blend! Rich, flavorful, and not too spicy, this spice mix comes in a great combination that you don’t have to make yourself. Of course, you could combine and grind spices at home by yourself. But I’m telling you, I didn’t miss it here. I could easily taste the nutty and spicy flavors like cumin, coriander, and red chili. Buy the seasoning. You won’t regret it. You can often find these spice packets at your local grocery store in the international aisle. Of course, you could also go to an Indian grocery store. Both “Shan” and “National” brands make a wonderful butter chicken spice mix. The ultimate flavor is when these Indian spices are combined with copious amounts of butter. My mouth is watering just thinking about it!

If you’re new to Indian foods, this recipe is for you!

If you don’t have a big love for Indian food or have never tried it before, this recipe is a great way to get your foot in the door without leaving your comfort zone. Curry powder for some can be an acquired taste, so easing in gently with this easy Indian butter chicken recipe is important. It doesn’t overdo the spice level but definitely delivers in flavor to put together a delicious meal!

What sides go with Indian Butter Chicken?

Jasmine or Basmati rice is a great place to start. If you prefer white rice or brown rice, that’s perfectly delicious as well. Rice is easy to cook up and I have great recipe options for whichever rice you choose. Jasmine rice is a flavorful choice, too.

Naan bread is a side that you can use to dip into the extra sauce. Any classic Indian dish has naan on the side. And it pairs so well with this favorite butter chicken recipe!

Dahl. Dahl (or daal) is a classic popular Indian curry and lentil dish that has a delicious spice mixture and a healthy ingredient list. It is a commonly favorite Indian dish and pairs so well with this delicious recipe!

What is in Indian Butter Chicken?

Chicken. Of course. You want to use boneless here. Chicken breast works perfectly here because you’ll get plenty of fat from the cream. While chicken thighs are a good alternative, chicken breasts are easier to prepare.

Heavy cream. This is what gives the butter chicken a velvety texture. Of course, a creamy flavor as well.

Tomato Paste. A tasty tomato puree helps thicken your gravy and adds the tomato flavor that is necessary in butter chicken.

Unsalted butter. You’ll saute your chicken and onions in vegetable oil in the beginning. But, right before turning off your stove, add a tablespoon of butter into your gravy. It makes all the difference.

Butter chicken seasoning mix! A good seasoning mix will have garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, paprika, some cardamom, ground ginger, and cayenne pepper. I recommend buying some, and if you can’t find it, use small amounts of each spice and mix up the servings to get your favorite flavor combination.

Extra-Virgin olive oil: to saute the chicken with.

Onion: to add a rich flavor when sautéing the chicken.

I really hope you try this simplified version of butter chicken at home! Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Other tasty recipes you’re sure to enjoy:

This Simple & Easy Avocado Spread Appetizer with Tomato is a perfect midday snack.

I love making my Favorite and Easy Stuffed Pepper Recipe with Chicken! It’s a favorite around our dinner table.