Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms both your heart and your home, let me introduce you to my Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe! This dish is not just food; it’s a hug in a bowl. Its creamy texture and delightful spices make it a family favorite, perfect for those busy weeknights or special gatherings with friends. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for any occasion!
What makes this butter chicken so special is how effortlessly it comes together. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up this delicious meal, and I promise your kitchen will smell heavenly while it’s cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner ready in no time.
- Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy, mild flavors that appeal to everyone.
- Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and reheat for an easy meal on busy days.
- Versatile serving options: Pair it with naan or rice for a complete meal that satisfies.
- Rich flavor: The blend of spices and cream creates a dish that’s bursting with deliciousness!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is simple! These wholesome items not only create an incredible flavor but also bring warmth to your dining table.
For the Chicken
- 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
For the Sauce
- 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
To Serve
- ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley, optional for garnish
- Naan bread
- Steamed rice
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Swap the protein: Use chicken breast instead of thighs if you prefer leaner meat.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or paneer for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Adjust the spice level: Increase or decrease the cayenne pepper based on how much heat you like.
How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine chicken chunks with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. This marination step helps tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor. Let it sit while you prepare the sauce!
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, add vegetable oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, sauté minced garlic and diced onion until they turn golden brown. This step releases their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base for your sauce.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in tomato sauce and stir in sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, and curry powder. Allow the mixture to simmer gently; this melds all those wonderful flavors together beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the sauce and stir well. Cover and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking; this keeps everything nice and creamy!
Step 5: Finish Up!
Just before serving, stir in remaining butter until melted for extra richness. Taste one last time to adjust seasoning if needed! Serve hot over steamed rice or with warm naan bread. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
And there you have it—your very own Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken! Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish with family or friends.
Pro Tips for Making Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Making this butter chicken at home is a breeze, and with these pro tips, you can elevate your dish to restaurant-quality!
- Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions create a richer base for your sauce, resulting in a more vibrant and aromatic dish.
- Adjust spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. You can always add more later if you prefer some kick!
- Let it simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer on low for a few extra minutes after adding the cream. This helps develop the flavors further and gives you that creamy consistency.
- Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh cilantro or parsley as a garnish not only brightens the presentation but also adds a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.
How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Serving butter chicken is all about creating an inviting and delicious experience. Here are some ideas to make your presentation pop!
Garnishes
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds color and freshness, enhancing both the look and flavor of your dish.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who love extra spice, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give your butter chicken a little heat and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
- Naan bread: Soft and warm naan is perfect for scooping up that delicious sauce. You can easily find store-bought options or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Steamed basmati rice: The fluffy texture of basmati rice pairs wonderfully with butter chicken, soaking up all that creamy goodness. It’s a classic combination that never disappoints.
- Cucumber raita: A cool cucumber raita made with yogurt, diced cucumber, and spices provides a refreshing contrast to the spiced flavors of butter chicken.
- Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots add color and nutrition while balancing the richness of the dish.
With these serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress your family and friends with your homemade butter chicken! Enjoy every bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is ideal for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy it throughout the week without losing its rich flavor.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the butter chicken to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezing
- Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Heat on low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Add a splash of cream or water if it seems too thick during reheating.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!
What makes this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe so special?
This recipe combines tender chicken with a creamy, spiced sauce that’s both comforting and flavorful. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests!
Can I make this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe with other proteins?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with boneless turkey, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How long does it take to make this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe?
From start to finish, you can whip up this delightful dish in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings!
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
You can use reduced-fat cream or substitute half of the heavy cream with unsweetened coconut milk for a lighter version while still maintaining delicious flavor.
Can I adjust the spice level in this butter chicken recipe?
Yes! Feel free to modify the cayenne pepper according to your taste preferences. For a milder dish, you can omit it altogether.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor that brings everyone together. Don’t hesitate to try it out and share your thoughts—happy cooking!
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe. This creamy, spiced chicken dish is sure to warm your heart and delight your taste buds. With tender chicken marinated in yogurt and spices, simmered in a rich tomato and cream sauce, it’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Pair it with naan or rice for a wholesome meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this dish will impress without the stress!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs
- 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
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) 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
Instructions
- Marinate chicken with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt in a bowl. Let sit while preparing the sauce.
- In a skillet over medium heat, combine vegetable oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté garlic and onion until golden brown.
- Add tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, and curry powder. Simmer gently.
- Stir in marinated chicken; cover and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes until cooked through.
- Stir in remaining butter before serving hot over steamed rice or with naan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
