Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

© Original Recipe By Megan May ©

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken 🍛🧈🔥

1. Introduction

Welcome to your ultimate guide for making homemade butter chicken—a dish that combines rich flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re seeking an easy chicken curry or a quick butter chicken recipe for weeknight dinners, this recipe offers a perfect blend of speed and authentic taste. The magic of this quick butter chicken lies in its creamy tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices, all made effortlessly at home.

2. Ingredients for Homemade Butter Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust for heat preference)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Preparing the Chicken Marinade

In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat thoroughly. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes—this enhances the flavor and tenderness.

Sautéing Aromatics and Chicken

In a large skillet or pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and add it to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 7-10 minutes.

Preparing the Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt or chili powder if needed.

Finishing the Butter Chicken

Reduce heat to low. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted, which adds richness to the dish. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a fresh, herbal note. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread for the perfect meal.

4. Tips for Making the Best Butter Chicken

• Marinating the chicken tenderizes the meat and intensifies flavor.
• Adjust chili powder based on your spice preference for a milder or spicier dish.
• Use full-fat heavy cream for a rich and creamy texture.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook it for an extra 5-10 minutes or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

5. Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover homemade butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts until heated through. To maintain creaminess, consider adding a splash of fresh cream during reheating.

6. Delicious Serving Suggestions

• Serve over fluffy steamed basmati rice or fragrant jasmine rice.
• Pair with warm naan bread or parathas to scoop up the flavorful sauce.
• Add a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh cucumber raita for a balanced meal.

For more quick dinner ideas, check out our easy garlic parmesan chicken skewers.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Homemade Butter Chicken

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce to suit your spice level.

Can I substitute coconut milk for heavy cream?

Yes, substituting coconut milk gives a dairy-free and subtly sweet flavor. It also pairs beautifully with the spices.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Its flavors deepen over time, and it stores well in the fridge for a few days. Just reheat gently for best results.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Essential for quick, efficient cooking that preserves flavor quality. Perfect if you want to experiment with alternative cooking methods for the chicken.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Durable and versatile cookware for sautéing and simmering. Enables you to create this butter chicken effortlessly.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – Great for grilling chicken pieces with that smoky flavor, adding a different twist to your dish.

9. Conclusion

Making homemade butter chicken has never been easier or faster, thanks to this streamlined recipe. From marinating tender chicken to simmering a rich, spiced tomato sauce, every step is designed to bring authentic flavors into your kitchen without hassle. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this quick butter chicken recipe is your new go-to for delicious, satisfying meals. Give it a try today, and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness of butter chicken at home!

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