Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Say hello to your new favorite comfort food—Butter Chicken! 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: In just 5 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy a delicious meal.
- Rich flavors: The combination of spices and cream creates a comforting dish that bursts with flavor.
- Versatility: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
- Family-friendly: This recipe caters to different palates, making it ideal for both kids and adults.
- Customizable heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice tolerance.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes all the difference in your cooking experience. Gather these essentials before you start your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking and helps to combine flavors effectively.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife ensures precise chopping of onions and garlic, which contributes to the overall flavor.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are key in maintaining the balance of spices for this recipe.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 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 Cooking Base
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
For the Sauce
- 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
How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken pieces. In a bowl, combine:
1. Chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, and curry powder.
2. Add Greek yogurt and mix well until chicken is coated.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Heat vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Add minced garlic and diced onion; sauté until onions are translucent.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet:
1. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides.
2. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in:
1. Tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, and heavy cream into the skillet.
2. Mix well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened.
Step 5: Final Touches
Stir in:
1. Cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, and additional curry powder.
2. Adjust seasoning if necessary; let it cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice for an unforgettable meal!
How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Serving Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a delightful experience that can elevate your dining occasion. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making it versatile for any meal.
With Naan Bread
- Enjoy warm naan bread to scoop up the creamy butter chicken. Its soft texture complements the rich sauce perfectly.
Over Steamed Rice
- Serve the butter chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice absorbs the flavors, giving you a satisfying bite every time.
With Fresh Salad
- A light salad with cucumber and tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch. It balances the richness of the butter chicken well.
Garnished with Fresh Parsley
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness. It enhances both presentation and flavor.
Paired with Raita
- Serve with raita, a yogurt-based side, for a cooling effect. This is especially nice if you like a little heat in your butter chicken.
Accompanied by Pickles
- Indian pickles add an exciting tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy dish. Try mango or lime pickles for a zesty touch.
How to Perfect Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
To make your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, boneless chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor.
- Marinate for Flavor: Marinating the chicken in Greek yogurt and spices enhances tenderness and taste.
- Control Spice Levels: Adjust cayenne pepper according to your heat preference; omit it entirely for a milder dish.
- Add Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and onions will elevate the overall flavor profile significantly.
- Simmer Gently: Allowing the dish to simmer gently helps meld all flavors, creating a richer sauce.
- Experiment with Cream: For a lighter version, substitute some heavy cream with coconut milk or half-and-half.
Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Pairing sides with your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce.
- Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad provides crunch and freshness, balancing out the creaminess.
- Samosas: Crispy samosas filled with spiced potatoes make for an exciting appetizer or side.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Lentil Dal: A hearty lentil dal complements butter chicken wonderfully while adding protein.
- Mango Chutney: Sweet mango chutney brings a delightful contrast of flavors that brighten each bite.
- Garlic Naan: Flavored garlic naan offers additional taste while serving as an excellent utensil for scooping.
- Aloo Gobi: This spiced potato and cauliflower dish works as a comforting vegetarian option on the side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making homemade Butter Chicken can be simple and delicious, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Not marinating the chicken: Skipping this step can lead to less flavorful meat. Marinate your chicken with yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes for better taste.
- Overcooking the sauce: Cooking the sauce too long can cause it to lose its creaminess. Keep an eye on it and simmer gently to maintain the rich texture.
- Using low-quality spices: Fresh spices elevate your dish significantly. Always use high-quality spices and check their freshness for the best flavor.
- Neglecting the garnishes: Skipping garnishes may make your dish look plain. Add freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
- Ignoring dietary needs: Not considering guests’ dietary restrictions could be a mistake. Offer alternatives like coconut cream or tofu for those who prefer non-dairy options.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Butter Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
- Allow it to cool completely before freezing to maintain texture.
Reheating Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring regularly until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have about the Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs provide more flavor and tenderness.
What can I serve with Butter Chicken?
This dish pairs well with naan bread, steamed rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
How spicy is this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe?
The recipe includes cayenne pepper as optional. You can adjust the spice level based on your preference by adding less or omitting it entirely.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas and replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a creamy vegan version.
Final Thoughts
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adjusting spices or adding vegetables like peas or bell peppers. It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests. Try making it today; you won’t be disappointed!
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the creamy delight of this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe, your go-to comfort food. This rich and velvety dish is packed with aromatic spices and luscious cream, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a mouthwatering meal that pairs perfectly with warm naan bread or fluffy rice. The customizable spice level ensures everyone at the table can enjoy a satisfying bite.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 6 garlic cloves
- 1 medium onion
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- ½ teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
Instructions
- Season chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well.
- Heat oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic and diced onion until translucent.
- Add seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides (5-7 minutes).
- Stir in tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, and heavy cream. Simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened.
- Add cayenne pepper (if desired), garam masala, and additional curry powder. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot with naan or rice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 970mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
