Rich & Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken: Your New Go-To Dinner!

Rich & Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken: Your New Go-To Dinner! 🍛✨🔥

1. Introduction

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this homemade butter chicken recipe that offers rich, creamy, and flavorful goodness in every bite. Perfectly juicy chicken simmered in a luscious spiced tomato sauce makes it a favorite for weeknights and special occasions alike. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this easy butter chicken recipe guarantees satisfying results with minimal effort. Dive into this quick butter chicken tutorial and elevate your dinner game today!

2. Ingredients for Homemade Butter Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup plain yogurt or Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp butter or ghee
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Homemade Butter Chicken

Preparation of the Chicken Marinade

Start by combining the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Searing the Chicken

Heat a tablespoon of butter or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Preparing the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant. Pour in tomato puree, cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add additional spices if desired for enhanced flavor.

Making the Creamy Sauce

Mix in heavy cream or coconut milk, stirring well. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it evenly with the sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Finishing Touches

Stir in a tablespoon of butter or ghee for extra richness. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve hot over steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal.

4. Storage and Reheating Tips for Homemade Butter Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

5. Serving Suggestions for Homemade Butter Chicken

This flavorful easy butter chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy jasmine or basmati rice, or with soft naan bread to scoop up every delicious bite. For a complete Indian-inspired meal, consider serving it with a side of Thai cucumber salad or creamy lemon feta pasta.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Homemade Butter Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but thighs tend to stay juicy and tender during cooking. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook to prevent dryness.

Is there a dairy-free version of homemade butter chicken?

Absolutely! Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Use plant-based butter or ghee for the authentic flavor.

How long does it take to make homemade butter chicken from start to finish?

This recipe takes approximately 45 minutes, including marinating and cooking time, making it perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – makes chopping vegetables and garlic effortless, speeding up prep time.
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – ensures even cooking and easy cleanup when simmering your sauce.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – ideal if you prefer slow-cooked flavor infusion, especially for batch cooking or meal prep.

8. Tips to Enhance Your Homemade Butter Chicken Experience

• Use fresh spices for Maximum flavor depth.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight, for more intense flavor.
• Finish with a drizzle of fresh cream or a dollop of butter for that ultimate creamy richness.
• Adjust spices to your taste – add more chili for heat or more garam masala for aroma.

9. Conclusion

This homemade butter chicken recipe is a wholesome, flavorful dish that is both easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious. Perfect as a weeknight dinner or for impressing guests, it brings authentic Indian flavors to your kitchen with minimal fuss. Try making this delicious dish and enjoy a comforting meal that you’ll want to make again and again! For more inspiring recipes, visit Delicious Daily Recipes.

Print