Name: Flavorful Homemade Butter Chicken for Quick Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp garam masala; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Flavorful Homemade Butter Chicken for Quick Weeknight Dinners 🍛🔥✨

1. Introduction

Are you craving a comforting, creamy chicken curry that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this butter chicken recipe, perfect for busy weeknights. Also known as homemade butter chicken, this dish combines tender chicken simmered in a luscious, spiced tomato-based sauce infused with butter and cream. Its rich, aromatic flavors make it a favorite among curry lovers, and the best part? You can have this delicious creamy chicken curry on your table in under 30 minutes!

2. Ingredients for Delicious Butter Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika (for color)
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust spice level)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Butter Chicken

Preparation and Marinating

Start by marinating the chicken with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of garam masala. For more flavor, let it sit while you prepare the sauce.

Cooking the Chicken

In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Sautéing Aromatics

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of butter if needed. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.

Making the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring well. Add garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Finishing Touches

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, allowing it to simmer in the creamy sauce for an additional 5 minutes to develop the flavors fully. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

4. Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken

To ensure your creamy chicken curry turns out perfectly, use fresh spices and high-quality cream. Additionally, cooking the sauce slowly helps develop deeper flavors. For a smokier aroma, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke.

5. Storage and Reheating

Leftover homemade butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to restore its creamy consistency.

6. Serving Suggestions for Your Creamy Chicken Curry

This butter chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan bread, or even quinoa for a healthier twist. For a complete meal, serve it alongside the `creamy parmesan spinach mushroom pasta` for a variation that appeals to all tastes.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Butter Chicken

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond cream for a dairy-free version.

What cut of chicken works best for butter chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, but chicken breasts work well too if cooked carefully to prevent drying out.

How long does it take to prepare butter chicken?

The total preparation and cooking time is about 30 minutes, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners.

Can I freeze leftover butter chicken?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

8. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for reheating leftovers quickly while maintaining their texture.

T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures your cookware heats evenly for best results in cooking butter chicken.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – For grilling or warming up side dishes like naan or vegetables.

Investing in high-quality kitchen tools can significantly improve your cooking experience and help you achieve restaurant-quality butter chicken every time!

9. Conclusion

This flavorful homemade butter chicken recipe offers a delicious, creamy, and spiced curry that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a hearty meal that rivals takeout. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this dish is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Try it today, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of Indian cuisine right in your own kitchen!

Flavorful Homemade Butter Chicken for Quick Weeknight Dinners