Why Make This Recipe
Butter chicken is a beloved dish known for its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken. Making your own butter chicken at home is quick, easy, and rewarding. It offers the perfect balance of flavors that can impress family and friends. You control the ingredients, making it healthier than many restaurant versions. Plus, it’s fun to cook!
How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- 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
- 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)
- Naan bread
- Steamed rice
Directions:
Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken, salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, sugar, additional salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Season and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in the heavy cream, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and curry powder. Let the mixture simmer for another 10 minutes on low heat.
Finish with Butter: Stir in the remaining butter until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve your butter chicken hot with naan bread or steamed rice.
How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Serve butter chicken with warm naan bread for dipping or spoon it over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. It’s also great accompanied by a light salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to keep it creamy.
Tips to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
- Use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness; they are less likely to dry out compared to chicken breasts.
- Adjust the spices according to your taste. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more cayenne pepper.
- For a quicker dinner, you can use pre-cooked chicken; just warm it through in the sauce.
Variation
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. You can also substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
FAQs
1. Can I make butter chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can make butter chicken a day in advance. It often tastes better after the flavors have had a chance to meld.
2. Can I freeze butter chicken?
Yes, you can freeze butter chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, coconut milk, or even Greek yogurt, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.