Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is a comforting dish that brings the warm spices of Indian cuisine into your home. With tender chicken pieces enveloped in a creamy tomato sauce, this dish promises to be a favorite for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply want a cozy meal, this butter chicken is perfect for any occasion.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 550
- Protein: 38 grams
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Fat: 42 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Sodium: 800 mg
Why Make This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
This butter chicken is quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners. With just a handful of ingredients and simple cooking steps, you can deliver restaurant-quality flavor right at home. The combination of spices provides a rich and complex taste without overwhelming your palate. Plus, it’s creamy, luscious, and pairs beautifully with naan bread and steamed rice, making it a versatile dish that everyone will love.
How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Creating this butter chicken is straightforward and manageable, even for novice cooks. Follow these easy steps to enjoy a delicious homemade meal.
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:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon of salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Make sure the chicken is well-coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sauté until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Base
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, around 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
- Pour in the tomato sauce and sugar. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Let the sauce simmer for around 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Season and Simmer
- Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the garam masala and additional curry powder. Stir well and let it simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Finish with Butter
- To finish, add an additional tablespoon of butter for extra richness. Mix it in well, and taste to adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your delicious homemade butter chicken hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley, alongside warm naan bread and steamed rice.
How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
This butter chicken is delightful when served hot over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or wrapped in warm naan bread. You can also offer a side of crispy papadums or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Add a dollop of yogurt on the side for a cooling contrast to the spices.
How to Store Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
If you have leftovers, let the butter chicken cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Expert Tips for Perfect Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Use Chicken Thighs: They remain juicy and flavorful compared to chicken breasts.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Add more cayenne pepper for extra heat or omit it for a milder dish.
- Cream Substitute: You can use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Fresh Herbs: Add fresh cilantro instead of parsley for an authentic touch.
- Marinate Longer: For even deeper flavors, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based version.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers in the sauce for added nutrition.
- Spicy Butter Chicken: Increase the cayenne pepper and add diced green chilies for extra heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can. Just be cautious with cooking time as chicken breasts can dry out faster than thighs.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! This butter chicken actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- Is it possible to make it gluten-free? Yes, ensure your ingredients, especially the naan, and any additional sauces, are gluten-free.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free alternative.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, just make sure your skillet is large enough to accommodate the increased volume, or cook in batches.
Conclusion
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Simple yet packed with flavor, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. With straightforward ingredients and uncomplicated steps, you’ll find it easy to whip up this delightful dish any night of the week. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a warm bowl of butter chicken that warms the heart and soul!
