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: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1-inch piece ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; Fresh cilantro for garnish; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup warm water; 2 tablespoons yogurt; 2 tablespoons melted butter

Highlighted under: Quick Meals | Fast Recipes

I love cooking dishes that remind me of my travels, and this Quick and Easy Butter Chicken with Naan is my go-to for a cozy night in. The vibrant flavors of spices, combined with the creamy tomato sauce, make it an instant hit at the dinner table. I've streamlined the process to make it simple enough for weeknights but indulgent enough for special occasions. Plus, homemade naan complements the dish perfectly, and with just a few ingredients, you'll find it surprisingly easy to whip up.

Created by

Fionas

Last updated on 2026-02-16T14:30:19.711Z

When I first attempted to recreate Butter Chicken at home, I was dazzled by its rich, aromatic flavors. I used a blend of spices that, while traditionally complex, can be assembled quickly for this dish. The key is to allow the chicken to marinate in yogurt and spices for at least 15 minutes—this not only enhances the flavor but helps tenderize the meat.

My favorite part of making this dish is the naan. I experimented with different cooking methods, and I found that using a hot skillet mimics the traditional tandoor oven quite well. With a touch of butter brushed on top just before serving, the naan is fluffy and pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce, making every bite a delightful experience.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A cozy dish that warms your soul on chilly evenings
Creamy sauce enriched with classic spices for authentic flavor
Fresh homemade naan adds a special touch to your meal

      

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

The marination process is crucial to developing deep flavors in your Butter Chicken. Allowing the chicken to sit in the yogurt and spice mixture not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with robust flavor. For deeper taste, you can marinate for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. If you're pressed for time, even a 15-minute soak will yield satisfying results, so don't hesitate to adjust to your schedule.

Using fresh spices plays a significant role in achieving an authentic taste. Opt for whole spices like cumin seeds and cardamom pods, toasting them in a dry pan for a minute before grinding, can elevate the dish further. This simple step releases essential oils, providing a more aromatic experience than pre-ground spices. It's worth the extra effort for that restaurant-quality flavor.

Perfecting Your Naan

When making naan, the resting time for the dough is essential. Letting it rest ensures that the gluten has time to relax, which leads to a softer, more pliable dough. If the dough feels too sticky, incorporate a little extra flour as you knead. But be cautious not to add too much, as it can lead to a dense naan rather than the desired fluffy result.

For a beautiful golden crust on your naan, ensure your skillet is adequately heated before cooking. A medium-high heat works best — you should see wisps of smoke. Cook each side until the dough puffs up and develops golden spots, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. If you have a tandoor oven, feel free to use that for an authentic touch, but a skillet works wonderfully in most kitchens!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Butter Chicken and naan:

Butter Chicken Ingredients

1 lb (450g) chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons garam masala
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons butter
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Naan Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup warm water
2 tablespoons yogurt
2 tablespoons melted butter

Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delightful Butter Chicken with homemade naan:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with yogurt, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Stir in the marinated chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Cream

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Slowly add the cream, stirring until combined and the sauce thickens.

Make the Naan Dough

In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Gradually mix in warm water and yogurt, kneading until a soft dough forms. Let it rest for 15 minutes.

Cook the Naan

Divide the dough into smaller pieces, roll out into flatbreads. In a hot, lightly greased skillet, cook each piece until bubbly and golden, about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Serve

Plate the Butter Chicken and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with warm naan for a perfect meal.

Enjoy your homemade Butter Chicken and naan with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a dash of fenugreek leaves to the sauce. Letting the chicken marinate longer will intensify the flavors even more. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought naan for convenience.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter version of this Butter Chicken, consider using boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs are generally more forgiving and juicier during cooking, making them a great option for this dish. Additionally, if you're dairy-free, substitute the cream with coconut milk, which will provide a lovely richness while maintaining the curry's creamy texture.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne in the marinade. This will impart a lovely warmth without overpowering the delicate flavors of the dish. Always remember to adjust spice levels per your preference to ensure everyone at the table enjoys their meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Butter Chicken recipe can be made ahead and stored for up to three days in the refrigerator. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in an airtight container. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making for an even tastier meal when reheated. Just gently simmer on the stove or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.

As for the naan, it can also be prepared in advance and stored in resealable bags. You can reheat them in a skillet or wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked naan. Stack them separated by parchment paper and store them in a freezer bag. They’ll be ready to enjoy whenever you have a craving for a cozy meal!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it's completely thawed before marinating.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ What can I serve with Butter Chicken?

Aside from naan, you can serve Butter Chicken with basmati rice or a fresh salad.

→ How can I adjust the spiciness of this dish?

You can reduce the amount of garam masala or add a bit of sugar to counteract the spice.