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Butter Chicken is one of the most beloved comfort foods around the world, known for its rich, creamy sauce and tender, spiced chicken. Traditionally, this dish can take hours to prepare, but this quick and easy homemade butter chicken recipe delivers the same bold flavors in a fraction of the time. Designed for busy home cooks, this version uses simple ingredients and a streamlined cooking method while still producing a restaurant-quality result.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or meal prep, this butter chicken recipe pairs beautifully with naan bread and steamed rice. The sauce is smooth, buttery, and mildly spiced, making it approachable for a wide range of palates while still delivering authentic flavor.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This butter chicken recipe stands out for many reasons:
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- Ready in under 45 minutes
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Rich, creamy texture without complicated steps
- Perfect balance of spice and sweetness
- Family-friendly and customizable heat level
- Ideal for meal prep and leftovers
- One-pan cooking for easy cleanup
If you are searching for easy Indian-inspired recipes, creamy chicken dinners, or high-protein comfort meals, this dish is an excellent choice.
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Ingredients Breakdown
• Chocolate Cake Mix – A boxed chocolate cake mix forms the sturdy base of this dessert. It saves time while delivering a moist, tender crumb. Choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
• Hot Fudge Sauce – Hot fudge soaks into the cake, adding richness and moisture. It intensifies the chocolate flavor and creates a gooey texture throughout.
• Chocolate Instant Pudding Mix – Adds creaminess and structure to the layers. Instant pudding ensures quick prep and a smooth, lump-free consistency.
• Milk – Activates the pudding mix and creates a silky, spoonable texture. Whole milk gives the creamiest result, though lower-fat options work as well.
• Oreos – Crushed Oreos create the signature “dirt” look while adding crunch and deep cocoa flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate layers.
• Cool Whip – Thawed whipped topping lightens the pudding, making the dessert airy and smooth while balancing the richness of the chocolate and fudge.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Butter Chicken
Follow these tips to ensure the best results every time:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes for better flavor.
- Use chicken thighs for the juiciest texture.
- Scrape browned bits from the pan when sautéing onions for added depth.
- Simmer the sauce gently to avoid separating the cream.
- Add butter at the end for a smooth, glossy finish.
- Adjust spice levels gradually to suit your taste.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is easy to adapt based on preference or dietary needs.
Protein Options
- Chicken breast (reduce cooking time slightly)
- Shrimp
- Paneer
- Tofu for a vegetarian option
Spice Adjustments
- Skip cayenne for a mild version
- Add extra garam masala for deeper flavor
- Use smoked paprika for added warmth
Dairy Alternatives
- Coconut cream instead of heavy cream
- Dairy-free butter substitutes
Pairing Suggestions
Butter chicken pairs wonderfully with:
- Warm naan bread
- Steamed basmati rice
- Garlic rice
- Cucumber yogurt salad
- Roasted vegetables
For a complete meal, serve with a fresh salad or lightly spiced lentils.
Storage Instructions
This dish stores exceptionally well, making it perfect for leftovers.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat
- Add a splash of cream or water when reheating if needed
- Freeze for up to 2 months for longer storage
Popular Questions
Can I make butter chicken ahead of time?
Yes. The flavors improve after resting, making it an excellent make-ahead dish.
Is butter chicken spicy?
This recipe is mildly spiced. Heat can be adjusted easily by adding or omitting cayenne pepper.
Can I use canned diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?
Yes, but blend them first for a smoother sauce.
What makes butter chicken different from tikka masala?
Butter chicken is creamier and slightly sweeter, while tikka masala tends to be more tomato-forward and spicier.
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine chicken, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 8–10 minutes until fully cooked and lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon butter. Add garlic and onion with a pinch of salt. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in tomato sauce and sugar. Simmer 2–3 minutes, then return chicken to the skillet.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir until smooth. Add cayenne (if using), garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper.
- Simmer gently on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Stir in remaining cold butter until fully melted and incorporated. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Adding butter at the end creates a richer, smoother sauce.
- Use low heat once cream is added to prevent curdling.
- This dish tastes even better the next day.
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