Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
The rich aroma of spices filling your kitchen, the sight of vibrant colors mingling in the pan, and the comforting warmth of a hearty meal bubbling on the stove—this, my dear friends, is the experience that awaits you with my Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe. Imagine diving into a bowl of creamy, luscious sauce enveloping tender chicken pieces, each bite transporting you to a cozy corner of an Indian kitchen. This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about love, warmth, and the joy of sharing a delightful meal with those you cherish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe truly stands out for several wonderful reasons:
- Ready in 30 Minutes: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish won’t steal your precious evening hours.
- Brings Families Together: The joy of gathering around a flavorful dish can elevate any dinner from mundane to memorable.
- Comforting and Festive: With its rich, velvety sauce, this dish feels both indulgent and inviting, making it suitable for casual meals and special occasions alike.
- Kid-Approved: The mild spices and creamy texture mean it’s a hit with younger palates.
- Versatile and Customizable: Whether served with rice or naan, this dish easily adapts to your preferences.
Ingredients with Notes
Gather up these ingredients to create your own homemade delight:
- Chicken (boneless, skinless thighs or breasts): Tender meat absorbs the flavors beautifully.
- Butter: The star of the sauce, giving that indulgent richness.
- Heavy cream: For a luxurious finish; you can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Tomato puree: Provides a rich base and vibrant color.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth; finely chop for smoother sauce.
- Garlic (fresh): A must for depth; don’t skimp here!
- Ginger (fresh): Adds warmth; use a peeler to prep it beautifully.
- Garam masala: The key spice blend, providing that warm, aromatic taste.
- Cayenne pepper: For a bit of heat; adjust to your liking.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning; taste as you go!
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
This quick turnaround from kitchen to table makes it an ideal recipe for those busy family nights or spontaneous get-togethers.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, stirring until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Your kitchen will start smelling divine!
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Brown the Chicken: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the chicken pieces to the pan, cooking until they’re browned on all sides. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
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Add the Tomato Puree: Stir in the tomato puree and cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
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Season and Simmer: Sprinkle in the garam masala and cayenne pepper, stirring well. Reduce the heat to low, then pour in the heavy cream, allowing the sauce to gently bubble for about 10 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening joyfully at this point!
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Finish with Butter: For indulgent richness, stir in an additional tablespoon of butter right before serving.
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Garnish and Serve: Finish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot with naan or steamed rice.
Tips and Variations
- Healthier Swaps: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter option. It still retains a lovely texture.
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute chicken with paneer or cauliflower for a vegetarian version.
- Seasonal Flavors: Taste the essence of the seasons by adding fresh peas or spinach right before serving.
Serving Ideas
Picture this: a large platter of warm naan bread, a bowl of fluffy basmati rice, and your hot butter chicken centerpiece, steam swirling in the air as you gather around the table. Bring in a side of cucumber raita for freshness and a light salad to balance the richness. This dish truly brings people together and adds festive cheer to weeknights or special gatherings with family and friends. Pair it with a glass of mango lassi or a chilled glass of white wine, and you have a meal that’s both cozy and celebratory.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers? Lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the butter chicken for up to a month. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over low heat to prevent the cream from curdling. Adding a splash of water can help reclaim some creaminess.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken pieces rest for 5 minutes after cooking; this keeps them juicy.
- Taste as You Go: Always adjust seasoning at the end; a pinch more salt or spice can truly elevate the dish.
- Fresh Herbs for Brightness: Adding cilantro just before serving infuses a burst of freshness.
FAQs
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Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure your spices and any accompaniments are gluten-free. -
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, though make sure to thaw it properly to ensure even cooking. -
Is butter chicken spicy?
This recipe is designed to be mild, but adjust cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. -
What can I serve with butter chicken?
Naan and basmati rice are traditional, but feel free to experiment with quinoa or other sides! -
Can I add veggies?
Absolutely! Peas, bell peppers, or spinach can be added for more nutrition.
Conclusion
I invite you to gather your loved ones and let the warmth of this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe fill your hearts and your home. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors that comforts and connects. So roll up your sleeves and dive into this culinary adventure. Share your experience, and relish the happiness it brings. After all, cooking is about creating memories one delicious bite at a time!
Contents
Homemade Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Chicken, boneless, skinless thighs or breasts Tender meat absorbs flavors beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons Butter The star of the sauce, providing richness.
- 1 cup Heavy cream For a luxurious finish; can substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- 1 cup Tomato puree Provides a rich base and vibrant color.
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped Adds sweetness and depth; chop finely for smoother sauce.
- 3 cloves Garlic, fresh A must for depth; do not skimp!
- 1 inch Ginger, fresh Adds warmth; use a peeler for prep.
- 2 tablespoons Garam masala Key spice blend providing warm flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne pepper Adjust according to your heat preference.
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential for seasoning; taste as you go.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, stirring until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Brown the Chicken: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the chicken pieces to the pan, cooking until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Tomato Puree: Stir in the tomato puree and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Season and Simmer: Sprinkle in the garam masala and cayenne pepper, stir well. Reduce heat to low, pour in the heavy cream, and let the sauce gently bubble for about 10 minutes.
- Finish with Butter: Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter right before serving.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or steamed rice.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.