Say hello to your new favorite comfort food—Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe! This creamy, spiced dish is a rich, velvety masterpiece that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re cozying up for a family dinner or impressing friends, it’s the perfect recipe to serve with warm naan and fluffy rice!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner on the table in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep for the week.
- Kid-Friendly: Mildly spiced and creamy, making it suitable for even the pickiest eaters.
- Easy Cleanup: One pot is all you need, which means less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delicious butter chicken, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly while creating a rich sauce.
- Measuring spoons: Ensures precise measurements of spices for consistent flavor every time.
- Sharp knife: Makes chopping ingredients quick and easy, saving you valuable prep time.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:
Main 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
Sauce Ingredients
- 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
Garnish and Sides
- ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley, optional for garnish
- Naan bread
- Steamed rice
How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken pieces in a bowl. Combine salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, and curry powder. Mix well to coat each piece evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat:
Add vegetable oil and 2 tablespoons of butter.
Once melted, add the seasoned chicken pieces.
Cook until browned on all sides (about 5–7 minutes).
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Once the chicken is cooked:
Remove it from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter.
Add minced garlic and diced onion; sauté until golden brown (about 3–4 minutes).
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Add in:
Tomato sauce,
Sugar,
Salt,
Black pepper,
Heavy cream,
Cayenne pepper (if using),
Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet:
Stir in garam masala and curry powder.
Simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes until fully cooked through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious butter chicken over steamed rice or with warm naan bread. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your comforting meal!
How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Butter Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Serving it the right way can elevate your meal and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful recipe.
With Naan Bread
- Soft and Warm: Serve warm naan alongside your butter chicken for a perfect pairing. Use it to scoop up the creamy sauce, enhancing each bite.
Over Steamed Rice
- Fluffy and Filling: A bed of fluffy rice complements the rich sauce beautifully. White or brown rice works well to balance the flavors.
With Fresh Salad
- Crisp and Refreshing: A light salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a tangy dressing adds freshness that contrasts nicely with the richness of butter chicken.
Garnished with Parsley
- Bright and Vibrant: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness that lifts the dish.
Accompanied by Yogurt Sauce
- Cool and Creamy: A side of yogurt sauce can provide a cooling effect, especially if you prefer your butter chicken spicier.
Paired with Pickles
- Tart and Tangy: Indian-style pickles bring in some tanginess that enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal.
How to Perfect Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Perfecting your butter chicken is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and spices will elevate the flavor profile significantly compared to dried alternatives.
Marinate Your Chicken: Allowing your chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes in yogurt and spices will make it tender and flavorful.
Balance Your Spices: Adjust spices according to your taste. If you prefer more heat, increase the cayenne pepper, but do so gradually.
Simmer Slowly: Allow the sauce to simmer gently; this helps in blending flavors perfectly without rushing the cooking process.
Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Complementing your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken with great side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent choices:
Garlic Naan: This soft bread infused with garlic is perfect for scooping up every bit of sauce.
Jeera Rice: Cumin-flavored rice adds aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with the dish.
Raita: This cooling yogurt-based side helps balance out any heat from the butter chicken.
Aloo Gobi: A classic vegetable dish made with potatoes and cauliflower, adding nutrition and texture.
Chickpea Salad: A protein-rich salad that brings crunch and flavor without overpowering the main dish.
Vegetable Pakoras: Crispy fried snacks made from mixed vegetables are great for munching alongside your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes that can affect the outcome of your dish:
- Skipping marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow the chicken to soak in spices and yogurt for at least 30 minutes.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap spices and sauces can ruin the dish. Invest in good quality spices and fresh ingredients for the best taste.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long makes it dry. Cook until just done, ensuring it’s tender and juicy.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting as you go can result in unbalanced flavors. Adjust salt and spice levels during cooking based on your preference.
- Rushing the cooking process: Quick cooking can lead to uneven results. Take your time to sauté onions and garlic properly for depth of flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place butter chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated thoroughly.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe? Here are some common questions answered!
What is Butter Chicken?
Butter Chicken is a creamy, spiced Indian dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s known for its comforting flavors.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a delicious dairy-free version of Butter Chicken.
How spicy is Butter Chicken?
The spice level can be adjusted based on personal preference. For less heat, omit the cayenne pepper or reduce its amount.
Can I use different proteins?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp or paneer if you’re looking for alternatives to chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is not just comforting; it also offers versatility for customization. Feel free to add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition or adjust spices according to your taste. Try this delicious recipe today, and enjoy every creamy bite!
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Discover your new favorite comfort dish with this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe. This delightful Indian classic features tender chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce that is incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this dish pairs beautifully with warm naan bread and fluffy rice, making it a satisfying meal that everyone will love. With just 5 minutes of prep time, you’ll be on your way to enjoying a rich and flavorful butter chicken that’s sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs
- 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
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, garlic powder, paprika, and curry powder.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat vegetable oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken and cook until browned (5–7 minutes).
- Remove chicken; in the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté onions and garlic until golden brown (3–4 minutes).
- Stir in tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Return the chicken to the skillet; stir in garam masala and curry powder. Simmer on low for about 15 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve over rice or with naan bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Leave a Comment