Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken: The Ultimate Comfort Food 🍗🧈🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a flavorful easy homemade butter chicken that can be prepared in under an hour, you’re in the right place. This quick butter chicken recipe combines tender, aromatic chicken in a luscious, spiced tomato-based sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this easy homemade butter chicken recipe is ideal for anyone seeking a delicious Indian-inspired dish without the fuss. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned cook, you’ll love how quick and satisfying this simple Indian chicken dish is to make at home.

2. Ingredients for Making the Best Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

• 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-By-Step Guide to Preparing Your Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of garam masala. For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken with a tablespoon of yogurt and lemon juice for 15-20 minutes. This helps tenderize the chicken and adds depth to the flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook until they turn golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in cumin, garam masala, paprika, and turmeric. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the spices to meld and the flavors to develop.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Cream

Return the cooked chicken to the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream, simmering for another 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want to explore more Indian cuisine, check out our mushroom and spinach lasagna recipe which offers another delicious comfort food option.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Butter Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to preserve the sauce’s consistency. You can also freeze the butter chicken in portions for up to 3 months; just defrost and reheat thoroughly before serving.

5. Serving Suggestions to Complement Your Quick Butter Chicken

Serve your easy homemade butter chicken over steamed basmati rice, flavored with a squeeze of lime or fresh herbs. Accompany it with warm naan bread or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and vibrant color. For added variety, try pairing with our spicy tomato pasta for a different savory experience.

6. Why Choose This Quick Butter Chicken Recipe?

This simple Indian chicken dish stands out because it is both quick to prepare and rich in authentic flavors. Using common pantry ingredients, this low-competition butter chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It delivers tender chicken simmered in a spiced, creamy sauce, making it a household favorite. If you enjoy experimenting with different cooking gadgets, consider trying your hand with the Ninja SLUSHi with RapidChill Technology for chilling drinks or desserts alongside your meal.

7. Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Q1: Can I make this easy homemade butter chicken dairy-free?

Yes, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free yogurt for a dairy-free version that still tastes delicious.

Q2: Is this a healthy butter chicken recipe?

While it’s indulgent, you can lighten it by using less butter, lean chicken, and coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Pairing it with brown rice and vegetables can further enhance its healthiness.

Q3: How spicy is this quick butter chicken recipe?

You can adjust the level of heat by adding more or less chili powder or cayenne pepper according to your preference.

8. Conclusion

In conclusion, this easy homemade butter chicken recipe provides a perfect balance of flavor, simplicity, and quick preparation. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, you’ll find that making authentic-tasting Indian chicken at home can be easy and rewarding. For more flavorful quick meal ideas, explore our restaurant-style pepper steak with onions. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal that comes together in no time!

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