Easy 30 Minutes Indian Butter Chicken

Name: Easy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 packet butter chicken seasoning mix; 1 lb chicken breast (cubed); 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 onion, (finely chopped); 7½ oz tomato sauce (1 small can); 1 cup half & half (or heavy whipping cream)

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This recipe for Butter Chicken is quick and simple. It gives you the same delicious flavors as a restaurant, without requiring as much effort and time!

Indian butter chicken in a skillet with parsley sprinkled on top, and a spoon on the side.

This simple butter chicken recipe 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. I rarely order it, but I love getting butter chicken at Indian restaurants. It’s a simple and delicious dish. 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.

Table of Contents

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 you combine these Indian spices with copious amounts of butter. My mouth is watering just thinking about it!

Indian butter chicken and rice in a bowl with a fork.

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. For some, curry powder can be an acquired taste, so easing in gently with this easy Indian butter chicken recipe is important. This recipe doesn’t overdo the spice level but definitely delivers in flavor to create 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. It 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!

Key Ingredients

Indian butter chicken ingredients- olive oil, butter chicken seasoning, tomato paste, chicken breast, onion, and half and half.

Chicken. You’ll want to use boneless and skinless chicken 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. 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 hope you try this simplified version of butter chicken at home! Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Find the full printable recipe with specific measurements below.

How to make 30 Minute Indian Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare

Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet.

Step 2: Stir fry chicken and onion

To the skillet add cubed chicken and onion and stir fry for 6-8 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink.

Chicken and diced onion sauteing in a black skillet.

Step 3: Add spices, cream, and tomato sauce

Add the butter chicken seasoning mix, tomato sauce, and half and half cream. Stir well.

Chicken with half and half simmering in a skillet with spices added on top.

Step 4: Cook

Continue cooking on medium low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the sauce is thickened.

Mixed spices in Indian butter chicken in a skillet.

Steps 5 & 6: Garnish and serve

Serve with cooked basmati rice.

Garnish each plate with fresh parsley.

Indian butter chicken and rice in a bowl with parsley sprinkled on top.

Expert Tips:

Opt for a reputable brand of butter chicken seasoning mix for an authentic taste.
Gradually add half and half cream for a velvety texture without curdling.
Serve with basmati rice to complement the dish’s flavors and textures.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, you can substitute boneless skinless chicken thighs for a slightly different flavor and texture. It is easier to cook chicken breast, but the ultimate choice is up to you.

Can I use regular cream instead of half and half?

Yes, but adjust the quantity to maintain the desired consistency.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, the flavors often intensify when reheated, making it suitable for preparing in advance.

What sides pair well with Indian chicken?

Naan bread or roti are excellent choices, along with a homemade lentil-spinach dahl.

What spices are in the butter chicken sauce pack?

The main ingredient in a butter chicken recipe is spices, which include turmeric, chili powder, cumin, and garam masala.

Other well spiced recipes you’re sure to enjoy:

This Cajun Chicken Lunch Salad uses the flavors of Cajun seasoning in a delicious and healthy salad!
Georgian Chicken in Walnut Sauce with Spices is a delicious recipe with so many of delicious spices!

More chicken recipes

If you tried this Indian Butter Chicken Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you enjoyed it in the📝 comments below. I love hearing from you!