Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Indian cuisine into your kitchen without the restaurant wait time. This creamy, aromatic curry made with tender chicken pieces and rich spices is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just looking to spice up a weeknight meal, this amazing recipe has your back.
In the realm of comfort food, butter chicken stands out with its iconic taste and delectable sauce. The simplicity of this dish makes it a favorite among many households. With its sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors, you’ll find yourself wanting more after just one bite. Perfectly paired with naan or basmati rice, this instant classic will turn any meal into a feast.
If you’ve been hesitant to try your hand at Indian cooking, fear not! This recipe is tailored for ease, allowing even novice cooks to whip up a comforting, flavorful butter chicken in no time. Let’s explore why this recipe is a must-try and guide you on your culinary adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken has several aspects that make it a beloved choice:
1. Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are likely staples already in your pantry.
2. Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes under an hour from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
3. Flavor Explosion: Each ingredient blends perfectly, creating a rich and complex flavor profile.
4. Versatile Options: Easily adjust spice levels and substitute proteins or vegetables if desired.
5. Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will fall in love with its creamy texture and addictive taste.
6. Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers are just as delicious; you can make larger batches for future meals.
With these points, it’s not hard to see why Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken has become a household favorite.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken will take around 30-40 minutes. Here’s a quick overview of the time required:
– Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
These estimates might vary depending on your kitchen experience, but overall, this dish is quick and straightforward.

Ingredients

– 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 can (15 ounces) tomato puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons garam masala
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken can be a breeze with these easy steps:
1. Melt Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until they are browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Add Spices: Sprinkle in the garam masala, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Stir to coat chicken thoroughly with the spices and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Incorporate Tomato Puree: Pour in the tomato puree and stir well. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
6. Add Cream: Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream until well combined. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thickened.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and serve hot.

How to Serve

To make the most of your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken, consider the following serving suggestions:
1. Accompaniments: Serve with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
2. Vegetable Pairing: Roasted vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad can add a refreshing touch to the meal.
3. Portion Control: Use shallow bowls for a visually appealing presentation, allowing ample sauce for the chicken.
4. Beverage Pairing: Pair with a light white wine or a refreshing lassi for an authentic dining experience.
With these tips in mind, you can transform your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken into a memorable meal!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Spices: For the most vibrant flavors, consider using freshly ground spices rather than pre-ground. This can elevate the overall taste of your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken.
– Let it Rest: After cooking, let the butter chicken sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
– Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a creamy, yet lighter version.

Recipe Variation

Explore new flavor profiles with these variations:
1. Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with a mix of paneer and vegetables like bell peppers, peas, and carrots for a delightful vegetarian take.

2. Spicy Kick: Increase the chili powder or add fresh green chilies to amp up the spice level according to your preference.
3. Coconut Butter Chicken: Incorporate 1 cup of coconut milk for a tropical twist that adds a lovely sweetness to the dish.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
– Freezing: Butter chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers. Be sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Special Equipment

While you can use standard tools, having these items on hand can enhance your cooking experience:
– Large skillet for cooking the butter chicken.
– Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring.
– Sharp knife and cutting board for chopping the chicken and vegetables.
– Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out faster. Cook them just until they are no longer pink to keep them tender.
What if I don’t have garam masala?
You can make a homemade blend using spices such as cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cloves if you don’t have garam masala on hand.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe does not contain flour or any gluten-heavy ingredients, making it gluten-free in its classic form.
Can I make this butter chicken in advance?
Absolutely! Making it a day ahead allows the flavors to deepen. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Conclusion

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this recipe becomes a comforting staple in any household. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned cook, this dish will become a go-to for family dinners and gatherings. So grab your ingredients and start cooking this delightful curry that’s sure to impress!

Print