Looking for dinner ideas that are both delicious and doable? You’re in the right place! If you’re like me—a busy professional juggling work, family, and fitness—you know the value of a dinner that’s both healthy and satisfying. That’s why I’ve gathered my favorite 10 creamy butter chicken recipes that fit seamlessly into hectic schedules while keeping your meals exciting, nourishing, and, yes, creamy!
There’s something special about the combination of succulent chicken in a buttery, spiced sauce. These creamy butter chicken recipes have saved my weeknights more times than I can count—they’re comfort food, meal-prep heroes, and family crowd-pleasers in one tidy bowl. Whether you’re cooking for health, hitting the 30-minute mark, or adding variety to your family dinners, these recipes were designed with real people and everyday life in mind.
Don’t forget to pin these recipes to your Pinterest meal plan for stress-free weeknights! Once you’ve tried a few, you’ll understand why creamy butter chicken has become my dinner go-to. I can’t wait for you to fall in love with these easy, healthy dinner ideas just like I did!
Classic Creamy Butter Chicken
There’s nothing like the comfort of classic creamy butter chicken. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen after nights of hurrying home, craving something warming yet not too heavy. The magic comes from a rich, silky sauce that blankets the chicken beautifully, creating a meal the whole family will beg for again and again. My favorite part? The aromatic blend of garam masala, turmeric, and fresh ginger comes together with pantry staples, making weeknight cooking a breeze. When I first tried this dish, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to achieve takeout flavor at home—without unnecessary additives or mystery oils.
Perfect for family nights or cozy solo dinners, this creamy butter chicken is incredibly versatile: I’ll often toss in steamed veggies or swap the side rice for cauliflower for a lighter twist. For anyone watching their health, using chicken breast instead of thighs keeps it lean and protein-packed. The sauce’s magic is in its well-balanced flavor and creaminess—use full-fat cream for richness, or lighten up with Greek yogurt if you’re feeling virtuous.
This meal reheats beautifully, making it an excellent meal prep option for busy weeks. Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra color and flavor. If you love bold comfort food, this one hits all the marks.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cubed
- 6 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 15oz can diced tomatoes
- 6oz tomato paste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (substitute Greek yogurt for lighter version)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Preparation Steps
- Chop chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5–7min; remove and set aside.
- Melt butter; sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until translucent (3–5min).
- Sprinkle in all spices; stir for 1min to bloom flavors.
- Add tomatoes, tomato paste, broth; return chicken, simmer 10–15min.
- Remove from heat; stir in heavy cream and cilantro.
- Serve over rice or cauliflower rice.
Prep Info
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 30min
- Total Time: 40min
- Serves: 6
Customization & Tips
- Swap cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
- Add spinach for a veggie boost!
Healthy Yogurt Butter Chicken
Lighten things up without sacrificing flavor! I discovered this version when I was looking for a dairy-friendly, lower-fat alternative for meal-prep. By swapping in plain Greek yogurt for the heavy cream and butter, you still get incredible creaminess, but the dish stays macro-friendly and easier to digest for those with sensitivities.
This healthy butter chicken scores high for meal preppers because it only improves after a night in the fridge—the flavors deepen, and the chicken remains tender. I truly appreciate being able to pull out a “better than takeout” lunch from the fridge all week. The anti-inflammatory turmeric and protein-packed yogurt make it a wholesome, all-in-one meal that won’t leave you sluggish.
If you love Indian-inspired flavors but want to keep your dinners light and bright, this version is perfect. Serve with brown rice or warm naan, and toss in peas or wilted greens for more nutrition.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 15oz can tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Preparation Steps
- Mix yogurt, garlic, ginger, and spices; marinate chicken 30min (optional but flavorful!).
- Sear chicken in oil, 4–6min.
- Remove chicken; add tomato sauce and broth, simmer 5min.
- Return chicken, stir in any extra yogurt marinade.
- Simmer gently until sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through (10min).
- Season to taste and serve with rice.
Prep Info
- Prep Time: 10min (+30min marinate)
- Cook Time: 20min
- Total Time: 30min (plus marinating)
- Serves: 4
Customization & Tips
- Substitute coconut yogurt for a dairy-free meal.
- Use chicken thighs for extra flavor.
- Add peas, spinach, or kale for color and nutrients.
Try this lighter version and let me know if you’re team yogurt!
One-Pan 20-Minute Butter Chicken
Time is of the essence during busy nights, so I created this one-pan, 20-minute wonder for ultimate convenience. This version brings together all the flavors of classic butter chicken in record time, and cleanup couldn’t be easier—one skillet, minimal dishes!
I was inspired to develop this recipe after a long day, craving the coziness of butter chicken but with none of the fuss. Using precooked or rotisserie chicken gives you a shortcut, while sautéing spices like garam masala and turmeric in butter builds deep flavor fast. The rich sauce comes together as you toss everything in, let it bubble, and then serve over warm naan or quick microwave rice.
This is one of my favorite quick-fix dinners for last-minute guests or a family meal that feels fancier than it really is. Every bite is creamy, slightly tangy, and full of classic comfort—all with under 10min of hands-on work.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 2 cups cooked, cubed chicken breast or thighs
- 8oz tomato sauce
- 1 cup light cream or coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
- Melt butter in skillet over medium-high heat and sauté onion 2–3min.
- Add garlic and spices; cook 1min until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato sauce; cook 2min.
- Add cooked chicken, toss to coat.
- Add cream or coconut milk, simmer until heated and thickened (5min).
- Season and serve over rice or with naan.
Prep Info
- Prep Time: 5min
- Cook Time: 15min
- Total Time: 20min
- Serves: 4
Customization & Tips
- Use pre-cooked chicken for speed.
- Swap in shrimp or tofu for a fun twist.
- Add frozen peas for extra veggies.
Butter Chicken with Greek Yogurt (Low-Fat)
Trying to keep things light but still want all the flavor? I created this low-fat butter chicken with Greek yogurt during my meal-prep phase. The Greek yogurt gives you that creamy richness without all the calories of heavy cream—perfect for those tracking macros or watching their waistline.
Despite swapping out some butter and cream, it still tastes indulgent, especially with plenty of aromatic spices and tomato goodness. This recipe has become one of my staples for weekday lunches, especially when I want something comforting but still light enough for busy afternoons.
It reheats beautifully and stays luscious, making it perfect for meal prepping ahead of time. Plus, the added boost of protein from the yogurt means you’ll stay satisfied longer.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast or thighs, cubed
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 15oz can crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
- Heat oil, sauté onion and garlic 2–3min.
- Add chicken; cook 4–5min.
- Stir in spices, cook 1min.
- Mix in tomatoes, simmer 10min.
- Add Greek yogurt, stir until combined; gently heat through.
- Season to taste and serve.
Prep Info
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 20min
- Total Time: 30min
- Serves: 4
Customization & Tips
- Use nonfat or full-fat yogurt as preferred.
- Stir in baby spinach to boost nutrition.
- Top with fresh parsley for color.
Lightened-Up Creamy Butter Chicken
If you love creamy butter chicken but want something lighter that still feels indulgent, give this “lightened-up” version a try. After a big trip left me craving takeout but needing something less heavy, I played around until I got the right balance—half the usual butter, more veggies, and a lighter dairy substitute.
I’ll make this after workouts because it’s comforting and filling without feeling sluggish. Plus, sneaking in extra bell peppers or spinach is a total win for your nutrition goals!
It’s also a family favorite: my kids love the gentle, buttery flavor and I love that it doesn’t take me off track with my healthy habits.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 14oz can tomato puree
- 1/2 cup light cream or evaporated milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt, pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
- Heat oil, cook chicken until golden (5min).
- Remove chicken; add onion, cook 3min.
- Add garlic, ginger, spices; cook 1min.
- Add tomato puree, bring to simmer.
- Return chicken; cook 7min until cooked.
- Stir in light cream and butter, cook 2min.
Prep Info
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 20min
- Total Time: 30min
- Serves: 4
Customization & Tips
- Add diced bell peppers or spinach.
- Replace chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian spin.
- Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Vegetarian Butter Chickpeas
When you need a hearty, plant-based comfort meal, these butter chickpeas do the trick! Born from a fridge-cleanout night, I realized this recipe has all the cozy, creamy vibes of butter chicken—no meat required. Chickpeas soak up the spiced, buttery sauce perfectly, and it’s a budget-friendly win for the whole family.
I love serving this over fluffy rice or with warm naan, loaded with cilantro and a squeeze of lemon. Even my meat-loving friends ask for seconds, so this is truly a versatile go-to for any crowd.
Ingredients
- 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 15oz can tomato sauce
- 1 cup coconut milk or cream
- Cilantro for garnish
Preparation Steps
- Sauté onion in butter and oil.
- Add garlic, ginger, spices; cook 2min.
- Add tomato sauce, simmer 5min.
- Stir in chickpeas and coconut milk.
- Simmer 10min to thicken.
- Serve with rice or naan.
Prep Info
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 15min
- Total Time: 25min
- Serves: 4
Customization & Tips
- Add spinach for greens.
- Top with chili flakes for spice.
- Store leftovers for easy lunches.
Meal Prep Butter Chicken Bowls
Meal prep changed my life—and these butter chicken bowls are proof a little planning can make your week delicious and stress-free. The secret is layering saucy, juicy chicken over rice with roasted veggies, all portioned in advance for grab-and-go meals.
This was my go-to for busy office weeks. Everything reheats beautifully and the flavors only get better after a day or two. For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice and load up on veggies!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs skinless chicken thighs, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup cream or coconut milk
- Roasted veggies (carrots, broccoli, peppers)
- Rice or cauliflower rice
Preparation Steps
- Sauté chicken in oil and butter, set aside.
- Sauté onion and garlic; add spices.
- Add tomato sauce, bring to simmer.
- Stir in cream; return chicken, simmer 10min.
- Roast veggies in oven.
- Assemble bowls: rice, veggies, butter chicken.
Prep Info
- Prep Time: 15min
- Cook Time: 25min
- Total Time: 40min
- Serves: 5
Customization & Tips
- Use cauliflower rice for low-carb.
- Roast any veggies you have on hand.
- Freeze extra bowls for future lunches.
Family-Style Butter Chicken Bake
Lazy weekends or family gatherings call for this butter chicken bake. You get all the goodness of creamy, spiced chicken, plus the ease of a casserole—ideal for feeding a hungry crowd!
I first made this for a potluck, and it was an instant hit. Everything combines in a single baking dish, so there’s hardly any cleanup. Plus, it stays warm for ages, making it perfect for leisurely dinners or buffet spreads.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breast or thighs, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 cups tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- Salt and pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Sauté onion and garlic in butter.
- Add chicken; brown lightly.
- Stir in spices and tomato puree; simmer 5min.
- Add cream, transfer to baking dish.
- Top with cheese, bake 25min.
Prep Info
- Prep Time: 15min
- Cook Time: 30min
- Total Time: 45min
- Serves: 6–8
Customization & Tips
- Swap in cubed paneer for a veggie twist.
- Use coconut cream for dairy-free.
- Add peas or bell pepper for color.
Bake this up for your next family night and tag me in your feast!
Spicy Healthy Butter Chicken
If you crave a little heat, this spicy healthy butter chicken is sure to fire up your weeknights. Inspired by my love for bold spices, this version balances heat and health—think leaner cuts, extra veggies, and all the cozy sauce.
I love how you can dial up the spice by adding extra chili or serve with a dollop of yogurt to mellow things out for the kids. It’s become a regular feature in my meal plan, especially during cooler months.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne or hot chili powder
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt, pepper
Preparation Steps
- Sauté onion in oil; add garlic, ginger.
- Add chicken, brown on all sides.
- Sprinkle in all spices, stir 1min.
- Stir in tomatoes, simmer 10min.
- Add coconut milk, simmer until thickened.
- Serve hot.
Prep Info
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 20min
- Total Time: 30min
- Serves: 4
Customization & Tips
- Add chickpeas for extra protein.
- Adjust spice to your liking.
- Use Greek yogurt to cool things down.
Slow Cooker Creamy Butter Chicken
For ultimate convenience, let your slow cooker do the work! I developed this after long workdays, and there’s nothing better than coming home to the smell of buttery, spiced chicken ready to eat.
This method melts everything together slowly, creating juicy, tender chicken in an ultra-creamy sauce. Just toss everything in, set it, and come back hours later to a perfect dinner. Great for busy families or anyone who loves hands-off cooking.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
Preparation Steps
- Place all ingredients except cream in slow cooker.
- Cook on low 6–8hr or high 3–4hr.
- Shred chicken gently with two forks.
- Stir in cream; heat 10min longer.
- Serve with rice or naan.
Prep Info
- Prep Time: 15min
- Cook Time: 6–8hr (slow cooker)
- Total Time: 6–8hr 15min
- Serves: 6
Customization & Tips
- Add frozen peas in the last 30min.
- Use coconut cream for dairy-free.
- leftovers for busy days.
