Name: Homemade Butter Chicken Easy Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks; 2 tbsp butter; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Cilantro for garnish

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🍛 Homemade Butter Chicken Easy Recipe: Creamy & Flavorful Indian Classic

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a dish that melds aromatic spices, tender chicken, and a luscious, buttery sauce, then this butter chicken recipe is your new go-to. Known for its rich, velvety gravy that balances tangy tomatoes with fragrant garam masala, homemade butter chicken offers a comforting, yet sophisticated taste experience. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this easy butter chicken recipe transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in 30 minutes: Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinners.
One-pot cooking: Minimal cleanup after enjoying this flavorful dish.
Versatile: Can be served with rice, naan, or your favorite grains.
Customizable spice level: Adjust the heat to suit your palate.

3. Ingredient Notes

To achieve that authentic taste, selecting the right ingredients is essential. Use **high-quality boneless, skinless chicken thighs** for juiciness and flavor, or opt for chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. Fresh garlic and ginger form the aromatic backbone of the sauce, so freshly grated options are best. For the spices, authentic garam masala and smoked paprika add depth and warmth. Tomatoes should be ripe or canned crushed tomatoes for a bold, tangy base, balanced with a generous knob of butter for that signature smoothness.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To cook this butter chicken effortlessly, ensure you have the right tools. A good Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer can help you prepare chicken with even crispness or rotisserie flavor if desired. The T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set provides excellent heat distribution and easy cleanup for simmering your sauce perfectly. Investing in quality cookware simplifies the cooking process and elevates your results.

5. How to Make Homemade Butter Chicken

Marinate and Prepare the Chicken

Start by tossing the chicken pieces with yogurt, spices, and a pinch of salt. Allow this to marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the sauce base. The yogurt tenderizes the chicken and adds richness. Look for visual cues: the chicken should be coated uniformly and look slightly glossy.

Sauté Aromatics and Spices

In a large skillet or wok, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden. The aroma of toasted garlic and ginger should fill your kitchen. Stir in spices—garam masala, paprika, turmeric—allowing them to toast gently, releasing their essential oils and intensifying their flavors.

Simmer the Sauce

Add crushed tomatoes and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and darkened slightly. You’ll notice the oil begins to separate at the edges, a sign the sauce is rich and flavorful. Incorporate heavy cream or coconut milk to achieve that creamy consistency, then stir in a generous chunk of butter until melted. The sauce should be velvety, aromatic, and inviting.

Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the sauce, ensuring each piece is submerged. Reduce heat to low and cover, cooking for another 10-12 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Spoon the sauce over the chicken periodically to keep it moist and flavorful. The final dish should be glistening with butter and packed with aromatic spices.

6. Expert Tips for Success

Use full-fat dairy: For creaminess and depth of flavor, opt for heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk.
Adjust spice levels: Add chili powder or cayenne if you like extra heat, but start with a small amount and taste as you go.
Finish with fresh herbs: Garnish with chopped cilantro right before serving for a fresh, herbal touch.
Cook the sauce upfront: Allowing the tomato mixture to simmer until thick ensures a rich, concentrated flavor.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’re gluten-free, serve this butter chicken with cauliflower rice or gluten-free naan. For a richer, dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream. Want extra protein? Add chickpeas or paneer for more texture and flavor. Adjust spice intensities to make it kid-friendly or extra fiery for spice lovers.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s luscious consistency. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain freshness and taste.

9. FAQ

Can I make this butter chicken vegetarian?

Yes, replace chicken with cauliflower florets or paneer cubes. Follow the same cooking process for a satisfying vegetarian version.

How spicy is this butter chicken?

This recipe is mildly spicy; for more heat, add extra chili powder or cayenne pepper during cooking. For milder flavor, reduce or omit spices accordingly.

Can I freeze leftover butter chicken?

Absolutely. Store in a sealed container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to avoid breaking the sauce.

10. Conclusion

This easy butter chicken recipe offers a delightful journey into Indian cuisine with minimal fuss. From tender chicken simmered in a creamy, aromatic sauce to the satisfaction of creating this popular dish at home, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal made fresh in your kitchen!

Homemade Butter Chicken Easy Recipe