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: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
- Rich flavors: The blend of spices and creamy sauce creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile serving options: Pair it with naan, rice, or even vegetables for a complete meal.
- Family-friendly: It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it ideal for family dinners.
- Leftover friendly: Enjoy the leftovers the next day or freeze them for a quick meal later.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Serving dishes
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: This is crucial for evenly cooking your chicken and simmering the sauce.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring cups: Accurately measure your ingredients for the best flavor balance.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 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 Sauce
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 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: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, combine chicken chunks with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt.
- Mix well until all pieces are coated. Let it marinate while you prepare other ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet in an even layer. Cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and diced onion; sauté until onions are translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, and additional curry powder.
Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes until heated through and flavors meld together.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove from heat; stir in remaining butter until melted.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.
Enjoy your deliciously creamy Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken!
How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Serving your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken can elevate the dish from delicious to extraordinary. Here are some great ideas to enjoy this creamy delight.
With Naan Bread
- Naan is the perfect accompaniment to soak up the rich sauce of butter chicken. Warm it slightly before serving for the best experience.
Over Steamed Rice
- Fluffy steamed rice serves as a wonderful base for butter chicken, allowing every bite to be full of flavor and comfort.
Paired with Roasted Vegetables
- Roasting seasonal vegetables adds a crunchy texture and nutritional boost, balancing well with the creamy sauce.
As a Wrap
- Use naan or flatbread to create a butter chicken wrap. Add fresh greens and a drizzle of yogurt for a refreshing twist.
On a Bed of Quinoa
- Quinoa is a healthy alternative that absorbs the flavors beautifully, making it a nutritious option for serving butter chicken.
How to Perfect Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
To achieve the most flavorful butter chicken, here are some tips to keep in mind.
- Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices offer more potent flavors than pre-ground ones, boosting the overall taste of your dish.
- Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter version, substitute part of the heavy cream with coconut milk or use plain yogurt instead.
- Balance the Heat: If you prefer less heat, skip the cayenne pepper or reduce its amount based on your spice tolerance.
Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken can enhance your meal’s overall enjoyment. Here are some excellent options:
-
Cucumber Raita
A cooling yogurt-based side that complements spicy dishes perfectly. -
Basmati Rice Pilaf
Flavored rice with spices and herbs, adding an aromatic element to your meal. -
Chickpea Salad
A fresh salad with chickpeas, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides protein and crunch. -
Vegetable Samosas
Crispy pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas make for great finger food alongside butter chicken. -
Mango Chutney
This sweet and tangy condiment adds a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of butter chicken. -
Garlic Spinach
Sautéed spinach with garlic offers a nutritious side that balances out the richness of the main dish. -
Lentil Dal
A hearty lentil dish that adds depth and nutrition while complementing your butter chicken beautifully. -
Roasted Cauliflower
Lightly seasoned roasted cauliflower provides a flavorful and healthy option that pairs well with rich sauces.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a delicious butter chicken can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls that can spoil your dish. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Wrong chicken cut: Using bone-in chicken instead of skinless boneless thighs can make your dish tough. Always opt for tender cuts for the best results.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Aim for just cooked through to keep it juicy and tender.
- Skipping the marination: Not marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices can lead to bland flavors. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance taste.
- Inaccurate spice measurements: Adding too much or too little spice can affect the balance. Always measure your spices carefully for perfect flavor.
- Neglecting freshness: Using old spices can dull the dish’s flavor. Ensure your spices are fresh for that vibrant taste and aroma.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Let it cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space in the container as the sauce may expand.
Reheating Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warmth.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish, stirring every minute until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries regarding the Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe.
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or paneer for a vegetarian option.
How spicy is this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe?
The recipe includes cayenne pepper which is optional. Adjust it according to your heat preference!
Can I make this butter chicken dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skip butter or use a dairy-free alternative.
What should I serve with this dish?
This butter chicken pairs perfectly with naan bread or steamed rice for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can adjust spices and add vegetables according to your taste preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy a delightful home-cooked meal that’s sure to impress!
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe. This creamy, spiced dish features tender chunks of chicken enveloped in a rich tomato and cream sauce, making it a delightful meal for family gatherings or cozy dinner nights. Perfectly paired with warm naan or fluffy rice, this recipe is not only simple to make but also a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. In just a few steps, you can create an irresistible butter chicken that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
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
- ½ teaspoon curry powder
- ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Naan bread
- Steamed rice
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook marinated chicken in a skillet until browned; set aside.
- Sauté garlic and onion in the same skillet until translucent.
- Add tomato sauce, cream, and spices; simmer.
- Return chicken to the sauce and heat through before serving with naan and rice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 960mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
