Butter chicken shouldn’t be an intimidating weekend project. This version keeps the beloved, rich creaminess and aromatic spices but strips away the fuss and long marinating times. You’ll achieve truly restaurant-level flavor in about 30–40 minutes using a few smart shortcuts and minimal cleanup.
Skip the takeout menu tonight. Your faster, richer, and easier weeknight staple has arrived.
The Secret: Short Marinade, Smart Cookware
This recipe works because we bypass the long marinade time with two power players: acid (lemon juice) and spice (garam masala). The short rest tenderizes the chicken just enough.
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Ingredients (Serves 4)
| Component | Ingredient | Amount |
| Chicken & Quick Marinade | Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (chopped) | 1.25 lb (600 g) |
| Plain yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, garam masala, salt | 3 tbsp + 1 tsp each | |
| Sauce Foundation | Butter + Oil, Small Onion (finely chopped) | 2 tbsp + 1 tbsp |
| Ginger paste, Garlic paste, Chili powder (adjust to taste), Tomato paste | 1 tbsp each | |
| Sauce Body | Crushed tomatoes (14 oz can), Heavy or Coconut cream | 1 can + 1/2 cup |
| Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek—highly recommended), Salt | 1 tsp + To Taste | |
| Garnish | Fresh cilantro, Squeeze of lemon | To taste |
Step 1: Quick Marinade & Prep (10 Minutes)
- Marinate: In a bowl, mix all marinade ingredients. Toss the chopped chicken thighs in the mixture and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while you prepare the remaining sauce components.
- Pro Tip: If you’re truly pressed, toss the chicken with just the lemon and yogurt while you chop the onion. Even 5 minutes helps the flavor penetrate and tenderize.
Step 2: One-Pan Stovetop Method (30–35 Minutes)
This is the standard, foolproof method for a rich sauce.
- Sear Chicken: Heat the oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and sear quickly (2–3 minutes per side) until golden brown but not fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Build the Sauce: In the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed. Sauté the onions until soft (4–5 minutes). Add the ginger and garlic pastes and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Bloom Spices: Stir in the chili powder and tomato paste, cook for 1 minute, then add the crushed tomatoes. Let the sauce simmer gently for 6–8 minutes to thicken and concentrate the flavors.
- Simmer & Finish: Return the seared chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Stir in the cream and kasuri methi, heating gently (do not boil hard). Finish with a small pat of butter, taste for salt, and garnish with cilantro and lemon.
- Pro Tip for Silky Sauce: For an ultra-silky, restaurant-style finish, use an immersion blender for 5–10 seconds right after the tomatoes have cooked down. It smooths the texture without sacrificing body.
The Time-Saver: Instant Pot / Slow Cooker Shortcut
| Method | Instructions |
| Instant Pot (15 Min Total) | Use the Sauté function to quickly sear the chicken. Add all sauce ingredients (except cream). Pressure cook on High for 6 minutes, then Quick Release. Stir in the cream and finish with kasuri methi. |
| Slow Cooker (4–5 Hours) | Combine all ingredients (except cream) in the pot. Cook on Low for 4–5 hours until the chicken is fork-tender. Stir in the heavy cream 15 minutes before serving. |
| Pro Tip: The pressure cooker concentrates flavors fast. Use 1/2 can less liquid if you want a thicker sauce straight out of the pot. |
Sides and Serving Ideas
This rich dish is best balanced by simple accompaniments:
- Steamed basmati rice (Use a rice cooker to take the stress out of rice!)
- Garlic naan (Microwave pre-made naan for 30 seconds and brush with garlic butter for a quick cheat)
- A fresh side salad of cucumber, onion, and lime to cut through the richness.
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Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Butter chicken sauces often taste even better the next day after the flavors meld.
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce’s texture.
This quick butter chicken is great for weeknights, date nights, or meal prep. It’s rich, cozy, and surprisingly simple when you use a few smart shortcuts. Try it tonight!