Quick and Easy Butter Chicken with Naan

Name: Quick and Easy Butter Chicken with Naan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound of boneless chicken thighs, cubed; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); 4 pieces of store-bought naan; Butter (for brushing); Garlic, minced (optional, for garlic naan)

Highlighted under: Global Gourmet Recipes

I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for Quick and Easy Butter Chicken with Naan. This dish has become a weeknight favorite in my household because it’s both satisfying and simple to whip up. The rich, creamy sauce paired with tender chicken is comforting and utterly delicious. I love serving it with warm naan, which ensures that every last drop of sauce is savored. With a few common ingredients and just 30 minutes of cooking time, I know you’ll find this recipe as appealing as I do!

Created by

The Chefeliaskitchen Team

Last updated on 2026-02-16T14:42:19.056Z

When I first made butter chicken at home, I was worried it wouldn’t come close to the restaurant version I love. However, this recipe uses simple techniques that really work and brings all the flavors I adore together. The secret is in the spices and the cream, which create a luscious sauce without complicated steps.

I also discovered that using pre-cooked chicken saves a lot of time while still adding that incredible flavor. Pairing it with store-bought naan makes it even easier to enjoy this dish any night of the week!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation that saves you time on busy weeknights
Velvety sauce with a perfect blend of spices
Homemade naan that complements the rich flavors beautifully

Understanding the Spices

The spice blend in butter chicken is key to achieving its authentic flavor profile. Garam masala, a staple in Indian cuisine, contributes warmth and depth, while cumin adds earthiness. I recommend toasting these spices in the pan for a few seconds before adding other ingredients; this can elevate their flavors immensely. It’s an excellent technique for enhancing the overall aroma and making the dish more fragrant as it cooks.

If you’re looking to customize the heat level, consider adjusting the paprika to your liking. For slightly more spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be included. On the other hand, if you prefer milder flavors, you could reduce the garam masala. Just remember to taste as you go, especially when adding spices, to find the perfect balance that suits your palate.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The heavy cream is essential for creating the signature richness of butter chicken. When added at the right stage of cooking—not too early or late—it melds beautifully with the tomato sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer gently after incorporating the cream for around 5-10 minutes. This ensures that the flavors meld together well, resulting in a velvety texture that clings perfectly to the chicken pieces.

If you want a lighter version or are looking for dietary alternatives, consider using coconut milk or Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream. Both options will contribute a different flavor twist while maintaining a creamy mouthfeel. Just be sure to adjust the heat accordingly when introducing yogurt to prevent it from curdling.

Ingredients

Butter Chicken

1 pound of boneless chicken thighs, cubed
2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Naan

4 pieces of store-bought naan
Butter (for brushing)
Garlic, minced (optional, for garlic naan)

Feel free to customize the spices according to your taste preferences!

Instructions

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until browned.

Add Spices

Sprinkle in the garam masala, cumin, and paprika. Mix well to coat all the chicken pieces with the spices.

Make the Sauce

Pour the tomato sauce over the chicken and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let it cook for 10 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Prepare the Naan

While the butter chicken is simmering, warm the naan according to the package instructions. Brush each naan with butter and garlic if desired.

Serve

Serve the butter chicken over rice or alongside warm naan. Garnish with chopped cilantro.

Enjoy this delicious meal with your family or friends!

Pro Tips

For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix. If you have leftover butter chicken, it reheats beautifully in the microwave.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra butter chicken, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, gently simmer on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce from becoming too thick.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of butter chicken. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm on the stove. This is a great option for meal prep, ensuring a hearty meal is always just minutes away.

Serving Suggestions

Though butter chicken is often served with naan, it pairs beautifully with basmati rice soaked in a bit of melted butter. The rice's fluffy texture complements the creamy sauce perfectly. Consider adding a side of simple cucumber salad tossed with yogurt and spices for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.

For a heartier meal, I often add roasted vegetables on the side. Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, roasted until caramelized, bring a bright element to the plate. They not only add color but also a sweet balance to the savory dish, enhancing the dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook the butter chicken a day in advance and then reheat it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with butter chicken?

Traditionally, it’s served with naan or basmati rice. You can also enjoy it with a simple salad.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, the butter chicken freezes well! Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.