Quick and Easy Homemade Butter Chicken 🍗🧈 The Perfect Creamy Curry for Weeknight Dinners

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a flavorful, comforting butter chicken recipe that comes together quickly, you’re in the right place. This Indian chicken dish, known for its velvety creamy curry, is perfect for weeknight dinners and busy evenings. Rich in spices, tender chicken, and a luscious tomato-based sauce, this homemade butter chicken delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is designed for simplicity and deliciousness. Plus, you can customize it to suit your dietary preferences, making it a versatile addition to your dinner lineup.

2. Ingredients for This Butter Chicken Recipe

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt, pepper, and half of the garam masala. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

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

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 7-10 minutes. This helps develop flavor and ensures evenly cooked chicken.

Step 4: Add Spices and Tomatoes

Sprinkle the remaining garam masala, paprika, turmeric, and cumin over the chicken. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Let simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and simmer for another 5 minutes. The sauce should be smooth, creamy, and rich. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Butter Chicken

If you have leftovers, store the butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to restore the sauce’s luscious texture.

5. Serving Suggestions for This Creamy Curry

This butter chicken recipe pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan bread, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For a side of veggies, consider a fresh cucumber raita or a simple green salad. Feel free to sprinkle additional cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.

6. Popular Variations and Substitutions

• Use Greek yogurt instead of cream for a tangy twist.
• Make it spicy by adding chopped green chilies or cayenne pepper.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with paneer or hearty vegetables.

7. FAQs About Butter Chicken and How to Perfect This Dish

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more tender and flavorful, making them an excellent choice for butter chicken.

What if I don’t have garam masala?

You can create a simple spice blend with cumin, cinnamon, and coriander as a substitute. However, for authentic flavor, garam masala is recommended.

How long does it take to prepare this butter chicken recipe?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond cream for a dairy-free, yet equally creamy, curry.

8. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: Perfect for slow-cooking your chicken for an even more tender, flavorful dish.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Great for preparing ingredients swiftly and uniformly.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker: Chill your beverages or ingredients swiftly, especially if you want to serve cold drinks alongside your meal.

9. Conclusion

This butter chicken recipe is a flavorful, creamy, and quick solution for weeknight dinners. Its rich spices and tender chicken create a dish that everyone will love, and the simplicity of the preparation makes it achievable even on busy evenings. Experiment with optional ingredients or spice levels to customize your perfect Indian chicken experience. Serve with rice or naan, and enjoy a homemade creamy curry that rivals restaurant quality. For more delicious recipes, check out our other favorites like the Creamy Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup or the Spicy Chile Relleno Soup.

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