Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you up in a warm hug, then you’ve just found it! My Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is everything you need on a busy weeknight or for those special family gatherings. This creamy delight is so simple to whip up, and believe me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds (or thirds!). Serve it with warm naan and fluffy rice, and you have a meal that feels like a celebration.

Butter chicken has always held a special place in my heart. It’s one of those recipes that brings everyone together. Whether it’s a casual dinner at home or an occasion to impress your friends, this dish is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Crowd-pleaser: The rich flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile meal: Enjoy it on its own, or pair it with naan and rice for an unforgettable feast.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance, making dinner even easier!
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level to suit your tastes—heat lovers can add more cayenne!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the ingredients! These are simple, wholesome options that you might already have in your kitchen. Gather these delightful components to create an unforgettable butter chicken experience.

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 about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: If you prefer, use boneless chicken breasts or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers during cooking for extra nutrition.
• Change the spice: Experiment with different spices like cumin or coriander to give it your unique touch.
• Creamy alternative: Swap out heavy cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free version while keeping it rich!

How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken. In a bowl, combine the chicken chunks with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. This step is essential as it infuses the meat with flavor and ensures tenderness.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pan over medium heat, add vegetable oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté until the onions are translucent; this brings out their natural sweetness and builds the foundation of flavor in our sauce.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Stir in the tomato sauce along with sugar, salt, black pepper, and heavy cream. Let this simmer gently so all those delicious flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Add Chicken

Once your sauce is bubbling away nicely, add in your marinated chicken. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked through—about 15 minutes should do it. This will ensure every bite of chicken is succulent and coated with that amazing buttery goodness.

Step 5: Final Touches

Stir in garam masala and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous! Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Finally, stir in that last tablespoon of butter—it makes everything extra luxurious.

Enjoy serving your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe garnished with fresh parsley alongside warm naan and steamed rice. Your friends and family will be raving about this dish for days!

Pro Tips for Making Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Creating the perfect butter chicken at home is simpler than you might think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken thighs to marinate in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness. This step infuses the meat with richness, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices pack more flavor compared to pre-ground versions. If possible, buy whole spices and grind them just before use. This will elevate your butter chicken with a robust aroma that’s hard to resist.

• Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of cream based on your preference. If you like a lighter sauce, reduce the cream or substitute it with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative that still offers lusciousness.

• Balance the Heat: If you’re unsure about how spicy you want your dish, start with a smaller amount of cayenne pepper. You can always add more as it cooks, ensuring everyone enjoys the meal without overwhelming heat.

• Simmer Gently: Cooking on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully without scorching the sauce. A gentle simmer creates that creamy texture and allows all components to shine through in harmony.

How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Serving butter chicken is all about creating a warm, inviting experience that brings everyone together! Pair this comforting dish with delightful sides and garnishes for a complete meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top just before serving for a pop of color and a fresh taste that brightens each bite.
• Lemon Wedges: Offering lemon wedges alongside adds a zesty kick that balances the rich flavors of the butter chicken beautifully.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy an extra punch, provide chili flakes at the table so guests can customize their spice level.

Side Dishes

• Naan Bread: Soft and fluffy naan is perfect for scooping up the creamy butter chicken sauce. You can serve it plain or try garlic naan for added flavor!
• Steamed Rice: Fluffy basmati rice pairs wonderfully with butter chicken, soaking up all that delectable sauce while adding a lightness to the meal.
• Cucumber Raita: This cool cucumber yogurt dip complements spicy dishes perfectly, providing a refreshing contrast that’s delightful.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate, balancing out the richness of butter chicken while offering extra texture.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your quick & easy homemade butter chicken will undoubtedly become a household favorite! Enjoy every moment spent savoring this delicious dish with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without the stress.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Butter Chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the Butter Chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, avoid freezing with naan or rice; keep them separate.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I make this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe without cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter option. It will still be creamy and delicious, but with a hint of coconut flavor.

What can I serve with Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with warm naan bread and steamed rice. You could also serve it with a simple salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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

The recipe includes cayenne pepper as an optional ingredient. Feel free to adjust the amount according to your spice preference, or omit it entirely for a milder dish.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs provide more moisture and flavor, boneless skinless chicken breasts work just fine—just be careful not to overcook them!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe brings warmth and joy to your table! It’s a delightful blend of spices and creaminess that makes it truly special. Enjoy making this dish as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!