why make this recipe

Butter chicken is a popular dish that brings together tender chicken and a creamy, flavorful sauce. This quick and easy recipe allows you to enjoy the comforting taste of butter chicken at home without spending all day in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave something delicious and satisfying. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginner cooks to tackle successfully. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that feels special!

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: Start by marinating the chicken pieces. In a bowl, mix the chicken with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon curry powder, and 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to soak up the flavors.
Cook the Chicken: Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it is browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, around 3-4 minutes.
Build the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, add 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
Season and Simmer: Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream, and stir to mix everything together. Season with ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (if you want some heat), garam masala, and ½ teaspoon curry powder. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes on low heat.
Finish with Butter: Just before serving, stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to add richness to the sauce.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your butter chicken hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Pair it with warm naan bread or steamed rice for a complete meal!

how to serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

To serve butter chicken, ladle the creamy sauce and chicken over a bed of steaming rice or alongside fresh naan bread. You can also sprinkle some chopped parsley or cilantro on top for color and added flavor. This dish is great for sharing with family and friends!

how to store Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

If you have leftovers, let the butter chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat again, simply heat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

tips to make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Adjust the spices to your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne pepper.
Use cream for a richer sauce, or substitute with coconut milk for a lighter option.

variation

You can add vegetables like peas or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrition and color. Another variation is to use cauliflower or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may not be as juicy. Ensure not to overcook them to keep them tender.

2. Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe has some spice from the cayenne pepper, but you can adjust the amount or leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor.

3. Can I freeze butter chicken?
Yes, butter chicken freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.