Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 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; 6 minced garlic cloves; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups heavy cream; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon curry powder; 1 tablespoon butter (for finishing)

Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, homemade butter chicken has become a beloved dish in homes around the world. If you’ve been searching for a comforting and satisfying dinner option, look no further! This quick and easy butter chicken recipe will have you savoring every bite and begging for seconds. With incredible spices and a luscious sauce, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also perfect for cozy evenings spent with loved ones.

Why Make This Recipe

You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option.
The balance of spices creates a rich, flavorful sauce that complements the tender chicken beautifully.
It’s a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with naan or rice, offering a perfect way to soak up that incredible sauce.

Now that you know a little about this mouthwatering dish, let’s dive into the process of creating this butter chicken masterpiece from scratch!

Easy Method for Butter Chicken

Creating this homemade butter chicken might be simpler than you think. Follow these detailed steps to bring a taste of India into your kitchen.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by preparing the chicken. In a medium bowl, combine 1 ½ pounds of skinless, boneless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized chunks with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon of curry powder. Stir everything together until the chicken is thoroughly coated with the spices, and then add 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt for richness. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or pan, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken, ensuring the pieces aren’t crowded in the pan to allow for proper browning. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Base

Next, we’re going to build the flavor profile for our sauce. In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons of butter and reduce the heat to medium. Once the butter is melted, add 6 minced garlic cloves and diced onion (1 medium onion). Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Now for the fun part! Pour in a can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and an additional 1 teaspoon of salt, along with ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix everything well, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes. The aroma will be incredible, sending your senses into overdrive!

Step 5: Season and Simmer

To add depth and flavor to your sauce, stir in 2 cups of heavy cream, ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (if you’re seeking some heat), and teaspoons of garam masala and curry powder. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully. This is where the dish transforms into something truly special.

Step 6: Finish with Butter

Don’t forget the finishing touch! Add another tablespoon of butter to the sauce, stirring until it’s melted and incorporated. This step adds a delightful richness that makes the dish truly decadent.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring every piece is well-coated in the creamy sauce. Allow it to heat through for a couple of minutes before serving. Pair your luscious butter chicken with warm naan bread and a side of steamed rice, and you have a dinner that will impress family and friends alike.

Storing Leftover Butter Chicken

Saving leftover butter chicken is easy and ensures you can enjoy this delicious meal again. Follow these thorough storage recommendations:

Refrigerate: Store your butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days at 40°F (4°C).
Freeze: If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze the butter chicken for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and don’t forget to label it with the date.

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Best Ways to Serve Butter Chicken

This homemade butter chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and garnishes that can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

Naan Bread: Freshly baked naan is the classic accompaniment and perfect for scooping up that delicious sauce.
Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice balances the richness of the sauce and creates a complete meal.
Raita: A refreshing cucumber raita can add a cooling effect to offset the spices.
Chopped Cilantro: Freshly chopped cilantro sprinkled atop the dish adds a burst of color and freshness.
Roasted Vegetables: Pair your butter chicken with some roasted veggies for a wholesome addition.

Tips to Make Butter Chicken

Making the best butter chicken requires some simple techniques. Here are a few helpful tips:

Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade for maximum flavor.
Sauté the onions and garlic gently; avoid burning for the best flavor.
Use full-fat cream for a creamier and richer sauce. Low-fat options won’t have the same luxurious texture.

Variations or Substitutions

Feel free to adapt this recipe to suit your preferences. If you’re looking to make some variations, consider these options:

Chicken Substitute: Replace chicken thighs with chicken breasts or tofu for a vegetarian twist. Tofu absorbs the sauce beautifully.
Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or peas during the simmering stage for added nutrition and flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes! You can prepare the butter chicken and store it in the refrigerator for a day or so before serving. It also tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicy, making them ideal for this recipe. However, using chicken breasts is perfectly acceptable.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add some chili powder. You could also serve it with sliced green chilies for that added kick!

Now that you’ve got a comprehensive guide to this quick and easy homemade butter chicken, it’s time to gather your ingredients and create this beloved dish. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, this recipe should become a staple for your dinner repertoire. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, inviting you to savor every delicious bite. Happy cooking!

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Why Make This Recipe