Name: Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 3 tbsp butter; 1 cup tomato puree; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ginger, grated; 1 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe 😋🍗✨

1. Introduction

Looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknights? This easy homemade butter chicken recipe combines tender pieces of chicken simmered in a rich, buttery tomato sauce, creating a dish inspired by classic Indian cuisine but simplified for home cooks. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced chef, this quick butter chicken dish is sure to become a household favorite that you can whip up in no time.

2. Ingredients for the Best Butter Chicken

1.5 lbs (675g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon garam masala
Salt and pepper to taste
4 tablespoons butter or ghee
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Easy Butter Chicken

Marinate the Chicken

Combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Don’t worry if it’s not cooked through; it will finish cooking in the sauce.

Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Cover and let simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add Cream and Finish

Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Let simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce is rich and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Butter Chicken

Allow the butter chicken to cool completely before storing. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months—just reheat thoroughly before serving.

5. Serving Suggestions for Butter Chicken

Serve this easy butter chicken over steamed basmati rice or alongside warm naan bread. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh Mediterranean salad or some roasted vegetables. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.

6. FAQ About Homemade Butter Chicken

Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?

Yes! This recipe works well with shrimp, paneer, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option. For a lighter version, simply reduce the amount of cream used.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick butter chicken dish perfect for busy weeknights.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

For making this easy butter chicken, having the right tools will streamline your cooking. Check out these kitchen essentials:

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for quickly cooking or reheating your chicken and vegetables with minimal oil.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures your skillet is non-stick and easy to clean for sautéing and simmering.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer – Ideal if you want to add grilled chicken for extra flavor or prepare side dishes.
Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker – For a warming cup of coffee or espresso alongside your meal.

8. Final Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken

Marinating the chicken enhances flavor and tenderness.
Use fresh spices whenever possible for a vibrant flavor.
Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to develop fully and creates that luxurious, creamy texture.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon to brighten the dish.

9. Conclusion

This easy butter chicken recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal without hours of fuss. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious dish that rivals restaurant quality. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this homemade butter chicken will surely impress. Give it a try today and discover why it’s one of the most loved dishes in Indian cuisine!

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken