Name: Fast & Flavorful Homemade Butter Chicken
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, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ginger, minced; 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Fast & Flavorful Homemade Butter Chicken 🍗🌟✨

1. Introduction

Discover how to make homemade butter chicken that is both quick and bursting with flavor. This easy butter chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave authentic Indian flavors with minimal effort. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this quick butter chicken will become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. The creamy tomato-based sauce paired with tender chicken pieces makes this an irresistible dish. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to your own delicious homemade butter chicken!

2. Ingredients for This Butter Chicken Recipe

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 tbsp butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option

2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp turmeric powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Easy Butter Chicken

Prepping the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Cook the chicken until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside.

Making the Sauce

In the same pan, add the remaining butter and sauté the chopped onions until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the sauce, stirring well to coat all pieces. Pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk and simmer for an additional 10 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Final Touches

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve this homemade butter chicken over steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread for an authentic experience.

4. Storage Tips for Your Butter Chicken

Leftover butter chicken recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or microwave until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to a month. To reheat frozen butter chicken, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in a saucepan or microwave.

5. Serving Suggestions for This Flavorful Butter Chicken

This quick butter chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice, naan bread, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Add a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad to complete your meal. For a more festive touch, consider serving with cheesy bread or a light side salad. The creamy, savory flavors make it an ideal centerpiece for family dinners or special occasions.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Butter Chicken

**Can I make this easy butter chicken dairy-free?**

Yes, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. The flavor remains rich and satisfying.

**How long does it take to prepare and cook this homemade butter chicken?**

The total time is approximately 30-40 minutes, making it an ideal quick butter chicken recipe for busy weeknights.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

While chicken thighs stay more tender and flavorful, you can substitute with chicken breasts. Just be cautious not to overcook to prevent drying out.

What are some good side dishes to serve with butter chicken?

Popular options include basmati rice, naan bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh cucumber raita.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for quick reheating or even making crispy veggies to serve alongside your butter chicken.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensure even cooking and easy cleanup while making this flavorful dish.

Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Versatile for preparing side dishes or grilled vegetables to enhance your meal.

8. Related Recipes to Explore

Chocolate Croissant Breakfast Bake — Perfect for brunch or breakfast alongside your butter chicken.
Valentine Ganache Cookies — A sweet treat to follow your savory main course.

Festive Christmas Bread — Ideal for holiday gatherings with your homemade butter chicken.

9. Conclusion

Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of this homemade butter chicken that is both quick and incredibly tasty. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create an easy butter chicken dish that rivals restaurant-quality meals. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite. Remember, good butter chicken starts with fresh ingredients and a bit of love in the kitchen. Happy cooking!

Fast & Flavorful Homemade Butter Chicken