Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve come to the right place! This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. The creamy sauce and tender chicken create a delightful harmony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something special but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. It’s also a fantastic choice for family gatherings or when you want to impress your friends without breaking a sweat.

What makes this recipe so special? Well, it’s not just about the mouthwatering taste; it’s about how approachable and easy it is to whip up at home. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can serve up this restaurant-quality dish right from your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can dive straight into cooking!
• Family Favorite: The creamy sauce and tender chicken are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the sauce ahead of time, and all you need to do is cook the chicken when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavor-Packed: Rich spices and creamy goodness make every bite an explosion of flavor.
• Serve with Versatility: Pair it with naan, rice, or veggies for a meal that suits any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this mouthwatering Butter Chicken. Don’t worry; these are all easily found at your local grocery store!

For the Chicken Marinade

• 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

For Serving

• ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Naan bread
• Steamed rice

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breasts instead of thighs, or go for tofu for a vegetarian twist!
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
• Change up the spice levels: Adjust the cayenne pepper based on how much heat you like.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use vegan butter for a plant-based version.

How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken pieces with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. This step is crucial as it infuses flavor into the chicken while keeping it juicy during cooking. Let it sit while you prepare other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, add vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until they become translucent. This process enhances their natural sweetness and forms a flavorful base for your sauce.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Stir in tomato sauce along with sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, and additional curry powder. Mix everything well and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This allows all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add your marinated chicken pieces into the sauce. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked through—about 10-15 minutes. Cooking them in the sauce ensures they absorb all those rich flavors while becoming tender.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once done, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over your Butter Chicken before serving. Pair it with warm naan or fluffy rice for a delightful meal that everyone will love!

Now that you have this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe under your belt, I hope you’ll enjoy making it as much as I do! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Getting the perfect butter chicken at home is easier than you think! With a few helpful tips, you’ll elevate your dish to restaurant-quality.

• Marinate the chicken: Letting the chicken sit with the salt, garlic powder, and yogurt for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion bring vibrant flavors that can really make your sauce pop. Fresh herbs like parsley can also add a lovely finish.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder dish, start with less cayenne pepper and adjust to your taste. This way, you can cater to everyone’s palate!
• Simmer slowly: Allowing the sauce to simmer longer helps develop deeper flavors. The creaminess will blend beautifully with the spices as it cooks.
• Serve immediately: Butter chicken tastes best fresh off the stove when it’s hot and creamy. If you need to reheat later, do so gently to maintain its texture.

How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Serving butter chicken is all about creating a cozy and inviting experience. Here are some ideas to make your meal memorable!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro or parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the dish.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a delightful zing.
• Sliced green chilies: For those who enjoy a bit more heat, adding sliced green chilies can provide an extra kick and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Naan bread: Soft, pillowy naan is perfect for scooping up butter chicken and soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
• Steamed basmati rice: Fluffy basmati rice serves as a great base for your butter chicken, allowing you to enjoy the creamy sauce in every bite.
• Roasted vegetables: Simple roasted veggies like bell peppers or zucchini add color and nutrition while complementing the rich flavors of the dish.
• Cucumber raita: This cooling yogurt dip made with cucumber and spices provides a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of butter chicken.

Now that you’re armed with tips on preparation and presentation, you’re all set to create a delightful meal that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy the rich flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled butter chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to separate the chicken from any accompaniments like naan or rice for best results.

Freezing

• Allow the butter chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Just label the container with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave it in a bowl, covered loosely, for about 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, keep in mind that thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

How spicy is this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe?

The spice level can vary based on your preference. The cayenne pepper is optional, so feel free to adjust or omit it for a milder dish!

What can I serve with butter chicken?

Butter chicken pairs wonderfully with warm naan bread and fluffy steamed rice. You could also serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and follow the same cooking instructions for a delightful vegetarian version.

How long does this butter chicken last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your butter chicken will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe as much as I do! Its creamy texture and aromatic spices come together beautifully, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect any day of the week. Don’t hesitate to try variations or share it with loved ones—food is always better when enjoyed together! Happy cooking!