Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Butter Chicken is the ultimate comfort food. With its smooth, creamy sauce and perfectly spiced chicken, it’s both indulgent and satisfying. This recipe delivers all the rich, complex flavors of traditional butter chicken without the hassle of spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of garlic, ginger, garam masala, and cayenne creates the perfect balance of heat and depth. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish is sure to become a favorite!

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 Butter Chicken 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

• ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

To Serve:

• Naan bread

• Steamed rice

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Marinate the Chicken:

1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.

2. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.

Cook the Chicken:

1. Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.

3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the oil in the pan.

Prepare the Sauce Base:

1. Reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Scrape up any browned bits in the pan with a splash of water to deglaze it.

2. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, along with a pinch of salt. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Build the Sauce:

1. Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes before adding the chicken back into the skillet. Mix well.

2. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce turns a rich orange hue.

Season and Simmer:

1. Add cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

2. Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and spices if needed.

Finish with Butter:

1. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of cold butter and let it melt into the sauce for a silky, smooth finish.

2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve your butter chicken hot with naan bread and steamed rice. Enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Marinate Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: If you like extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add some chopped fresh chilies to the sauce.

• Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for paneer or tofu to make a vegetarian version of this dish.

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk in place of heavy cream and dairy-free butter to make this dish dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of water or more cream to adjust the consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but chicken thighs are more tender and juicy, which makes them ideal for this dish.

2. Can I make butter chicken in advance?

Yes! You can make the butter chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently when ready to serve.

3. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken. You can also add a little more cream to achieve a richer consistency.

4. Can I freeze leftover butter chicken?

Yes, butter chicken freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

5. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?

Yes, you can use canned diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes instead of tomato sauce. Just blend them to get a smooth consistency.

6. How spicy is this butter chicken?

This butter chicken is mildly spicy, but you can adjust the heat by adding more cayenne pepper or other spices like garam masala.

7. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers to the dish for added flavor and texture.

8. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook the marinated chicken in the slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours, then finish the sauce on the stove as directed.

9. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

To prevent curdling, make sure the cream is at room temperature before adding it to the sauce, and stir constantly while adding.

10. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with lamb, turkey, or even shrimp for a different version of butter chicken.

Conclusion

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is the perfect recipe for anyone craving the creamy, spiced goodness of this classic Indian dish. The rich, velvety sauce, combined with tender chicken and warm spices, makes it an irresistible meal that pairs wonderfully with naan and rice. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds!

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