Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon sweet paprika; ½ teaspoon curry powder; 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 tablespoons butter (divided); 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups heavy cream; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat); 1 teaspoon garam masala; ½ teaspoon curry powder; ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish); Naan bread and steamed rice for serving

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Butter chicken is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts of food lovers around the globe. Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this comforting Indian classic offers the perfect balance of spices that can transform any weeknight dinner into a culinary adventure. My journey with this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe began when I was looking for a fast yet authentic way to satisfy my cravings for this iconic dish. Let me tell you, this recipe delivers on all fronts—deliciousness, simplicity, and speed!

Why you’ll love this dish

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this easy butter chicken recipe. Not only does it boast an incredibly rich and creamy sauce, but it’s also quick enough to whip up after a long day—making it a perfect weeknight meal. The ingredients are often kitchen staples, and who wouldn’t be thrilled by the idea of enjoying this restaurant-quality dish right from the comfort of home?

“This recipe was a game changer for my family! We couldn’t get enough of the flavors. It’s now a weeknight favorite!” – A happy home cook

When the weather turns chilly or when you just want to treat your loved ones to something special, this butter chicken recipe fits the bill beautifully. And let’s not forget—kids absolutely love it!

Step-by-step overview

If you’re ready to embark on a culinary journey, here’s a step-by-step guide on how the preparation of Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken flows. We’ll start by marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor and tenderness. Next, you’ll cook the marinated chicken, prepare a luscious sauce with rich spices, and finally, combine it all for a warm, inviting butter chicken that’s perfect over steamed rice or with fluffy naan.

What you’ll need

Before you dive into this delicious recipe, gather these key ingredients:

1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
½ teaspoon curry powder
1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 tablespoons butter (divided)
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium onion, diced
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups heavy cream
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
1 teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon curry powder
¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Naan bread and steamed rice for serving

Feel free to make substitutions! For example, using whole chicken breasts instead of thighs and swapping heavy cream for coconut milk can give you a different yet delicious result.

Step-by-step instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken chunks, salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté minced garlic and diced onion until they’re translucent and fragrant.
Build the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Season and Simmer: Add heavy cream, cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, and the remaining curry powder. Stir until well combined and simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Finish with Butter: Stir in the last tablespoon of butter for richness.
Serve and Enjoy: Top with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot over rice or with naan.

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving your homemade butter chicken, the options are endless! Traditionally, it shines over a mound of fluffy steamed rice or paired with warm, pillowy naan. For added flair, consider serving it alongside a refreshing cucumber raita or a vibrant salad to balance the dish’s richness.

Keeping leftovers fresh

Storing leftover butter chicken is a breeze. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to the freezer. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, ensuring it reaches a safe internal temperature.

Helpful cooking tips

Achieving the best butter chicken comes down to a few essential tips. First, marinating the chicken is pivotal; it not only enhances flavor but also keeps the meat tender. Also, don’t rush the simmering process—allowing the sauce to cook for a proper amount of time really deepens flavors. Lastly, don’t shy away from adjusting spices to your preference; cooking should be a personal experience!

Creative twists

Want to shake things up? Try adding extra vegetables like peas or spinach for a nutritious boost or swap the heavy cream for coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free version. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with different spices like turmeric or coriander to create your unique twist on this classic.

Common questions

How long does it take to make butter chicken?

In total, you can expect to spend about 45 minutes preparing this delicious meal, making it quick enough for even the busiest weeknights.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead, and the entire dish can be reheated easily, making it ideal for meal prep.

Is this butter chicken spicy?

The recipe allows for a bit of cayenne pepper to customize the heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to omit it or adjust according to taste!

Creating your own Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken can be an effortless and rewarding experience. Dive in, savor the flavors, and share it with your loved ones—you won’t regret it!