Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor, you’ve come to the right place! My Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is a delightful blend of creamy goodness and aromatic spices. It’s a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. The rich sauce paired with tender chicken and served alongside warm naan and fluffy rice will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Indian restaurant!

This recipe has been a staple in my home for years, and I love how it brings everyone together around the table. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, you’ll find this dish easy to whip up and absolutely delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have this meal on the table in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will savor the creamy sauce and tender chicken.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Flavorful experience: The combination of spices creates an incredible depth of flavor that will impress anyone.
• Versatile delight: Serve it with your favorite side dishes for an unforgettable meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’re going to love how simple these ingredients are! They are wholesome, easy to find, and come together beautifully to create that rich, creamy sauce we all crave.

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

One of the best parts of this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to tweak it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try substituting chicken with boneless turkey or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers during cooking for an extra dose of nutrition.
• Spice it up: Increase the cayenne pepper if you enjoy more heat in your dishes.
• Creamy alternatives: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken pieces. In a bowl, combine the chicken with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. This step is key as it infuses the meat with flavor and keeps it juicy during cooking. Let it sit while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, add vegetable oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté until the onions are translucent—this brings out their sweetness and builds a wonderful base for your sauce.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Next, stir in the tomato sauce along with sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, and additional curry powder. Bring everything to a gentle simmer; this melding of flavors is what makes this butter chicken truly special!

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Carefully add your marinated chicken pieces into the simmering sauce. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked through—about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally so everything cooks evenly. The butter chicken should be thickened beautifully by now!

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once done, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot over steamed rice or alongside warm naan bread. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh parsley on top for an added pop of color!

And there you have it—your very own Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll elevate your butter chicken to a whole new level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions enhance the flavor profile significantly. They provide a vibrant taste that dried versions simply can’t match.

• Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) can infuse it with deeper flavors and tenderize the meat, making every bite delightful.

• Adjust the spice levels: Don’t hesitate to tweak the amount of cayenne pepper or curry powder based on your heat preference. This way, you can cater to both mild and adventurous palates.

• Simmer gently: After adding the cream, let your sauce simmer on low heat. This helps meld all the flavors together beautifully without overcooking the chicken.

• Add a splash of lemon juice: Just before serving, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the dish, giving it an extra layer of freshness that balances out the richness.

How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

When it comes to serving this delicious butter chicken, presentation is key! Here are some delightful ways to make your meal look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
• Sliced green chilies: For those who enjoy a spicy kick, thinly sliced green chilies offer both heat and visual appeal.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a zesty touch according to their taste preference.

Side Dishes

• Naan bread: Soft, warm naan is perfect for scooping up butter chicken and soaking up that luscious sauce. You can even make or buy garlic naan for added flavor!
• Steamed basmati rice: Fluffy basmati rice complements the rich sauce beautifully and is great for balancing flavors. Its nutty aroma enhances each bite.
• Cucumber raita: This cool yogurt-based side dish made with cucumber and spices provides a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of butter chicken.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini add color and nutrition to your meal while keeping things light and healthy.

With these tips and serving suggestions in hand, you’re ready to create a memorable dining experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch to enjoy throughout the week, making your mealtime not only delicious but also stress-free.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days.
• Allow it to cool before sealing the container to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, transfer cooled butter chicken into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags.
• Be sure to leave some space at the top of containers, as liquids expand when frozen.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of cream if needed to maintain creaminess.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

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

Yes! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just be aware that breasts may cook quicker, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

How can I make this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add diced green chilies while cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?

Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or coconut milk as a lighter alternative, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

What should I serve with my butter chicken?

Butter chicken pairs beautifully with naan bread and steamed rice. You could also serve it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe will surely impress. Don’t hesitate to experiment with it—every tweak makes it uniquely yours! Happy cooking!