Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Butter chicken is a beloved dish that combines tender chicken in a creamy and flavorful sauce. It’s popular for a good reason: it’s comforting, rich, and perfect for sharing. This quick and easy version allows you to enjoy this Indian classic in the comfort of your home without spending all day in the kitchen. Serve it with naan bread or steamed rice, and you have a scrumptious meal that will impress family and friends.

How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Ingredients:

• 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
• 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
• ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Naan bread
• Steamed rice

Directions:

1. In a bowl, mix the chicken with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
2. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
3. Add tomato sauce, sugar, salt, black pepper, heavy cream, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and curry powder. Simmer for a few minutes.
4. In another pan, cook the marinated chicken until browned and cooked through.
5. Add the cooked chicken to the sauce. Stir in the remaining butter. Simmer for a few more minutes.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.

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How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Serve butter chicken hot, paired with fluffy naan bread or a steaming bowl of rice. You can also offer a side of vegetables or a salad for a well-rounded meal. Don’t forget to drizzle some extra sauce over your rice or naan!

How to Store Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

If you have leftovers, you can store the butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. You can also heat it in the microwave, but watch it closely to avoid overcooking.

Tips to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

• For more flavor, marinate the chicken longer, even overnight if you have time.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more cayenne pepper or omitting it altogether.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or half-and-half.
• Fresh herbs like cilantro can also be used for garnish instead of parsley.

Variation

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or peas to the sauce for added nutrition and texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of coconut milk for a different creamy flavor!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works well, though they may be slightly less tender. Cook them until they are fully done and no longer pink in the center.

2. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, this butter chicken has mild spices and a creamy sauce, making it appealing to kids. You can adjust the cayenne pepper for less heat if needed.

3. Can I freeze butter chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the butter chicken. Let it cool completely, then transfer into a freezer-safe container. It should last up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when you are ready to enjoy it again!