Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 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; Steamed rice

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Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Butter chicken is one of those irresistibly delicious dishes that brings a touch of comfort to your dinner table. This quick and easy homemade butter chicken recipe promises to deliver that creamy, spiced flavor in no time. You can easily whip up a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!

Why Make This Recipe

If you’ve ever craved delicious Indian cuisine but didn’t have the time to visit a restaurant, this butter chicken recipe is for you. It’s not just about saving time; this recipe gives you the freedom to control the ingredients and levels of spice, making it perfect for your tastes and dietary needs. Plus, making butter chicken at home allows you to experience the joy of cooking with fresh ingredients while indulging in a beloved classic.

Now, let’s dive into how you can make this delectable dish and impress your family and friends!

How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Ingredients

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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

Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken chunks with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to develop rich flavors.
Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in batches, cooking until they are golden brown on the outside and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Build the Sauce
Stir in the tomato sauce, sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Season and Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and curry powder. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
Finish with Butter
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with any juices that have accumulated. Stir to coat the chicken in the creamy sauce. Continue to simmer for about 3-4 minutes until everything is heated through. Finish by adding the remaining tablespoon of butter for an extra touch of richness.
Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the butter chicken to a serving dish, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot with naan bread or steamed rice.

Pro Tips for Success with Butter Chicken

Use Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tender than breasts, making them ideal for this dish. You can opt for boneless chicken breasts if you prefer, but consider marinating a little longer for added flavor.
Adjust the Spice Level: The cayenne pepper adds heat, but you can skip it or reduce the amount based on your taste preferences. For a milder version, just omit it altogether.
Make It Ahead: You can prepare this butter chicken a day in advance, as the flavors deepen overnight. Just reheat on the stove while stirring occasionally.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always try to use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor. Pre-packaged versions tend to lose some of their potency over time.
Garnish and Serve: Don’t skip the parsley – it adds a fresh touch that balances out the richness of the sauce. You can also sprinkle some roasted cashews for an extra crunch!

Flavor Variations for Butter Chicken

Vegetable Butter Chicken: For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with paneer or a mix of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, cauliflower, and peas.
Spicy Butter Chicken: If you love heat, add more cayenne or include diced green chilies in the sauce for a fiery kick.
Coconut Milk Version: Swap out heavy cream for coconut milk for a tropical twist that adds creaminess and a slight sweetness to the dish.
Herbed Butter Chicken: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like cilantro or mint during the cooking process for a refreshing flavor.
Different Sauces: Try different sauce bases by adding crushed tomatoes or using a store-bought butter chicken sauce as a shortcut.

Serving Suggestions for Butter Chicken

Butter chicken pairs beautifully with several sides. Consider serving it with:

Naan Bread: Fresh, warm naan is perfect for scooping up the rich sauce. You can also make garlic naan for added flavor.
Steamed Basmati Rice: The fluffy texture of basmati rice complements the creamy sauce perfectly while absorbing all the delicious flavors.
Cilantro Rice: If you want to add an aromatic twist, cook basmati rice with fresh cilantro and lime.
Mixed Veggies: A simple side of sautéed or steamed vegetables can add color and nutrients to your meal.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Butter Chicken

Refrigeration: Store any leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezing: To freeze butter chicken, let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|————-|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 850mg |

FAQ About Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Can I make butter chicken without cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter version. Just be cautious with the heat as yogurt can curdle if cooked too high.

How can I make butter chicken less rich?

To make the dish lighter, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or reduce the amount of butter. You can also add more vegetables to balance the richness.

What can I serve with butter chicken besides rice?

Besides naan or steamed rice, you can serve butter chicken with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even stuffed bell peppers for a low-carb twist.

Is butter chicken authentic Indian cuisine?

While butter chicken is a popular Indian dish, it’s considered more of a North Indian or Punjabi creation. It’s hailed for its rich and aromatic flavors, making it a favorite in Indian restaurants around the world.

Can I use canned chicken for butter chicken?

While fresh or frozen chicken yields the best flavor and texture, you could use canned chicken in a pinch. Just make sure to add it towards the end of the cooking process to warm it through without overcooking.

How spicy is butter chicken?

Butter chicken typically has a mild to medium spice level. The heat largely depends on your recipe adjustments, especially the use of cayenne pepper. You can easily customize it to fit your spice tolerance.

Final Thoughts

This quick and easy homemade butter chicken recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen! It’s flavorful, comforting, and surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re catering to a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish guarantees delight with every bite. So roll up your sleeves and get cooking—you’re just a few steps away from tasting creamy, spiced perfection!

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken