Name: Quick and Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cut into chunks; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tbsp garam masala; 1 tbsp paprika; 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp cumin; 2 tbsp butter; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup tomato puree; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Quick and Easy Homemade Butter Chicken 🍛🧈🔥

1. Introduction

Are you craving a rich, flavorful dish but short on time? Look no further than this quick butter chicken recipe, perfect for weeknights when you want something comforting yet effortless. Known for its creamy tomato sauce and tender chicken pieces, homemade butter chicken offers a fantastic blend of spices and buttery goodness that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a beginner, this easy butter chicken recipe will become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

2. Ingredients for the Best Butter Chicken Recipe

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce or pureed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Butter Chicken

Prepare the Chicken

Heat oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the spices: garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds.

Combine Tomato and Cream

Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well, scraping any bits from the bottom of the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld. Stir in heavy cream and butter, cooking until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

Add the Chicken and Finish

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the chicken absorbs the flavors. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

4. Storage Tips for Homemade Butter Chicken

Store any leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Best Butter Chicken

This delicious homemade butter chicken pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice, warm naan bread, or even over roasted vegetables for a low-carb option. For a complete meal, you might want to explore our creamy parmesan spinach mushroom pasta skillet for a varied dinner table.

6. Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Butter Chicken

Can I make this butter chicken recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use vegan butter or olive oil instead of traditional butter for a dairy-free version.

What are some substitutions for the chicken?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with paneer, tofu, or vegetables like cauliflower and peppers for a hearty meal. You can also use pre-cooked shredded chicken for even quicker prep.

How long does it take to prepare this homemade butter chicken?

From start to finish, it takes approximately 25-30 minutes, making it an ideal quick butter chicken recipe for busy weeknights.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Enhance your cooking experience with these useful tools. The Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics can help you make crispy sides to compliment your butter chicken, while the T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures your cookware lasts and cooks evenly. For those who love working with versatile kitchen appliances, the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo is perfect for making quick meals, snacks, and more. Investing in a stand mixer like the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange can help you prepare spice blends and marinades with ease for future recipes.

8. Conclusion

This easy butter chicken recipe offers a perfect balance of rich spices and creamy sauce, all prepared in under half an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to impress with its authentic flavor and quick preparation time. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a homemade Indian-inspired meal any night of the week.

Quick and Easy Homemade Butter Chicken