Name: Quick and Easy Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cut into chunks; 2 tbsp butter; 1 onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp garam masala; 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp paprika; 1 cup tomato sauce; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Quick and Easy Butter Chicken Recipe 🍛🔥✨

1. Introduction

Discover the secrets to making a homemade butter chicken that is rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner or want a delicious dish to impress your guests, this easy butter chicken recipe hits the mark. Known for its creamy tomato sauce and tender chicken pieces, this quick butter chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence but flavor can’t be compromised.

2. Ingredients Required for This Butter Chicken Recipe

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Best Butter Chicken

Preparation of the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of turmeric. In a large skillet or pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sautéing Aromatics

In the same pan, add the remaining butter and sauté the chopped onion until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until aromatic.

Making the Sauce

Add the tomato sauce to the aromatics, stirring well. Season with garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring to coat it evenly with the sauce. Pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk, stirring gently. Simmer everything together for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce is creamy and flavorful.

Serving the Butter Chicken

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot. Pair this dish with rice, naan bread, or your favorite side for a complete meal. For more ideas on complementary side dishes, visit our One Pan Creamy Parmesan Spinach & Mushroom Pasta or explore garlic parmesan chicken skewers.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Butter Chicken

Store any leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess and flavor.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Homemade Butter Chicken

This easy butter chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice, fluffy naan bread, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Enhance the meal with a side of fresh cucumber raita or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish.

6. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Elevate your cooking with this versatile appliance, perfect for quick reheats and even frying.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: These durable pans make cooking and cleaning effortless, especially when making creamy sauces like in this butter chicken recipe.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Perfect for grilling the chicken if you prefer a smoky flavor or for reheating leftovers.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Butter Chicken

Can I make this butter chicken recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or your favorite plant-based cream to keep it dairy-free while still maintaining that rich, creamy texture.

How long does it take to prepare homemade butter chicken?

The entire process takes approximately 30-40 minutes, making it an ideal quick butter chicken meal for busy evenings.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful in this dish.

What are some variations I can try with this butter chicken recipe?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients or spice it up with more chili for heat. For a healthier variation, swap out the heavy cream for Greek yogurt.

8. Conclusion

Mastering a quick butter chicken recipe at home is easier than you think. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a flavorful, creamy dish that rivals restaurant-quality meals. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this homemade butter chicken will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal in minutes!

Quick and Easy Butter Chicken Recipe