A vibrant plate of butter chicken featuring tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a rich, creamy orange sauce topped with fresh herbs. The dish is beautifully presented on a white ceramic plate, garnished with chopped cilantro and served alongside steaming basmati rice and warm naan bread. The scene is brightly lit, highlighting the glossy sauce and flavorful textures, creating an inviting and cozy atmosphere.

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

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Delicious and Quick Butter Chicken for Busy Nights 🍗🔥✨

1. Introduction

Are you craving a flavorful, homemade butter chicken but short on time? Look no further! This easy and quick butter chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a comforting, delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Known for its rich, buttery sauce and tender chicken, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into how you can make this savory homemade butter chicken step-by-step, ensuring a flavorful meal every time.

2. Ingredients for a Homemade Butter Chicken

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-step Instructions for Quick Butter Chicken

Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until aromatic.

Make the Tomato Sauce

Add crushed tomatoes to the skillet along with ground cumin, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Finish the Butter Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it evenly with the sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until everything is combined. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is tender. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Butter Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to loosen the sauce. This butter chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop further.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Quick Butter Chicken

Serve this flavorful butter chicken over steamed basmati rice or with warm naan bread for a complete meal. For a healthier twist, pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. Looking for more delicious dinner ideas? Check out this stir-fry or this low-carb chicken casserole for inspiration.

6. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

7. FAQs About Delicious and Quick Butter Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs provide a juicier, more flavorful alternative. Adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond cream for a dairy-free version without sacrificing creaminess.

How long does it take to prepare and cook butter chicken?

This easy homemade butter chicken can be prepared and cooked in approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe is mildly spicy, but you can adjust the chili powder to suit your taste preferences.

8. Conclusion

This quick and easy homemade butter chicken recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights when you crave a comforting, flavorful meal without complex steps. Combining rich, buttery sauce with tender chicken, this dish truly embodies the essence of a satisfying homemade dinner. Try it today and impress your family or guests with this delicious and quick butter chicken recipe! For more tasty dinner ideas, be sure to explore other recipes like this crockpot teriyaki chicken or this low-carb chicken casserole.

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A vibrant plate of butter chicken featuring tender, juicy chicken pieces coated in a rich, creamy orange sauce topped with fresh herbs. The dish is beautifully presented on a white ceramic plate, garnished with chopped cilantro and served alongside steaming basmati rice and warm naan bread. The scene is brightly lit, highlighting the glossy sauce and flavorful textures, creating an inviting and cozy atmosphere.

Delicious and Quick Butter Chicken for Busy Nights

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A creamy, rich butter chicken made with tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into chunks
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté onions and garlic in the same skillet until translucent.
  3. Stir in tomato sauce, spices, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to let flavors meld.
  4. Return chicken to the skillet and cook for another 10 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.
  5. Stir in heavy cream and cook for 2-3 minutes until silky and heated through.
  6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Notes

  • Adjust spice levels according to taste.
  • Use full-fat cream for a richer sauce.
  • Can be prepared in advance and reheated.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian-inspired
  • Diet: Gluten-Free, Healthy

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg

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