Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
introduction
Butter chicken, known for its rich and creamy sauce bursting with flavors, is a beloved dish in Indian cuisine. This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe allows you to whip up this delightful meal in the comfort of your own kitchen without spending hours slaving over the stove. With tender chicken pieces wrapped in a luscious sauce, it’s no wonder this dish has captured the hearts of many food lovers around the globe.
why make this recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to combine convenience with authentic flavor. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling family meals, or simply someone who loves great food, this butter chicken comes together quickly while still offering the depth of flavor that traditional recipes boast. It’s an excellent option for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without losing precious time in preparation.
how to make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
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
- Steamed rice
Directions:
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Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
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Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
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Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then add minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
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Build the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to enhance the flavors.
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Season and Simmer: Add the heavy cream, cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, and curry powder. Stir everything together, allowing the sauce to thicken, about 5-10 minutes.
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Finish with Butter: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter and let everything meld together over low heat for an additional 5 minutes.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the butter chicken hot, garnished with chopped parsley, alongside naan bread or steamed rice.
how to serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Butter chicken is best served warm and pairs perfectly with fluffy naan bread or steamed rice. You can also serve it with a side of cucumber raita or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional garam masala or fresh herbs on top before serving.
how to store Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
If you have leftovers, let the butter chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it; just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove.
tips to make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor—whole spices tend to be more aromatic and can elevate the dish significantly.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice tolerance; it can be omitted for milder tastes.
- If you prefer not to use heavy cream, you can substitute it with coconut milk for a lighter version.
- Marinating the chicken ahead of time, even overnight, enhances the flavor.
variation
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with paneer, tofu, or your favorite vegetables such as chickpeas, cauliflower, or bell peppers. Ensure the cooking times are adjusted accordingly to keep everything tender and delicious. Enjoy your quick and easy homemade butter chicken!