Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place. This Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is a family favorite in my home, and I’m excited to share it with you! It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Trust me; once you taste this dish, it will become a staple in your kitchen.

What I love most about this recipe is how straightforward it is. With just a few simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you can create an authentic butter chicken that rivals your favorite restaurant’s version. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce some warmth and spice to your dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can whip this up in under two hours, perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy sauce and tender chicken.
• Make-Ahead Option: Marinate the chicken a day before to save time on busy nights.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: Each bite is bursting with savory spices, making it truly irresistible.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with naan bread or over a bed of fluffy basmati rice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious butter chicken. They are simple and wholesome, ensuring you can easily find them at your local grocery store.

For the Marinade

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin (for marinade)
• 1 tsp ground coriander (for marinade)
• ½ tsp turmeric powder (for marinade)
• ½ tsp garam masala (for marinade)
• 1 tsp salt (for marinade)

For the Sauce

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp curry powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin (for sauce)
• 1 tsp ground coriander (for sauce)
• ¼ tsp turmeric powder (for sauce)
• 1 tsp garam masala (for sauce)
• (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• ¼ cup raw cashews
• ½ to 1 cup water or chicken broth
• 1 tsp sugar
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 tsp fenugreek leaves (Kasuri Methi), crushed
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for serving, optional)
• Naan bread or basmati rice (for serving, optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: Use boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a lighter option.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute chickpeas or paneer for chicken to create a delicious vegetarian version.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers during cooking for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice levels: Adjust the amount of spices according to your heat preference; add more chili powder if you like it hot!

How to Make Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine cubed chicken with Greek yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, garlic powder, sweet paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. This step is crucial as marinating infuses the chicken with flavor and tenderness. Mix well to coat everything evenly. For best results, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for 2-4 hours.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Bloom Spices

In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and add vegetable oil. Sauté diced onion until soft and translucent (about 5-7 minutes). Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Lowering the heat before adding spices—like curry powder—allows their flavors to bloom without burning.

Step 3: Simmer Sauce Base

Stir in tomato sauce and raw cashews along with half a cup of water or broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer before covering it up. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes until tomatoes break down and cashews soften. This simmering process helps meld all those wonderful flavors together!

Step 4: Blend the Sauce

Remove from heat once cooked. Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring batches to a regular blender), blend until smooth and velvety. This step ensures your sauce has that luxurious texture we all crave in butter chicken!

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

In a separate skillet over medium-high heat, cook marinated chicken pieces in batches until lightly browned and fully cooked through—around 3-4 minutes per side should do it! Setting them aside allows us to retain their juicy goodness while we finish our sauce.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Now comes the best part! Add cooked chicken back into your smooth sauce over medium-low heat. Let everything simmer together for about 5-10 minutes. Stir in heavy cream along with remaining cubed butter until melted—this gives our dish that signature creaminess! Don’t forget to crush fenugreek leaves between your palms before adding them in; they bring such delightful aroma!

Step 7: Serve

Allow your butter chicken to rest for about five minutes before garnishing with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread for an unforgettable meal that everyone will love!

Pro Tips for Making Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Creating a perfect Butter Chicken at home can be a rewarding experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your dish to another level!

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for 2-4 hours (or even overnight) enhances the flavor and tenderness, making each bite melt in your mouth.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and high-quality spices can make a noticeable difference in the flavor profile of your dish. They add depth and authenticity that dried or older ingredients simply can’t match.

• Blend Thoroughly: For that velvety texture, ensure you blend the sauce until completely smooth. A smooth sauce not only looks appealing but also allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Don’t hesitate to tweak the spices according to your taste preference. If you enjoy a bit more heat, add some chili powder or fresh chilies to the sautéed onions for an extra kick!

• Finish with Cream: When adding cream at the end of cooking, make sure it’s at room temperature. This helps prevent curdling and ensures a rich, creamy consistency throughout the sauce.

How to Serve Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Presenting your Butter Chicken beautifully can turn a simple meal into a delightful dining experience. Here are some fun ways to serve this dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness and color that complements the rich flavors.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side; a squeeze of lemon adds brightness and balances out the creaminess.
• Chili Flakes: For those who like it spicy, offer chili flakes as an optional garnish to give guests control over their heat levels.

Side Dishes

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is a classic pairing with Butter Chicken. Its mild flavor absorbs the sauce beautifully, creating a wonderful balance.

• Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy naan is perfect for scooping up every last drop of sauce. You can also try garlic naan for an extra layer of flavor.

• Vegetable Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side made with diced cucumbers and spices offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of Butter Chicken.

• Sauteed Spinach or Greens: Lightly sautéed spinach or mixed greens seasoned simply with salt and pepper make for a nutritious side that complements this hearty dish without overpowering it.

Now you’re all set to create an unforgettable meal with this Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe! Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings to your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dish throughout the week. With just a little planning, you can whip up this rich and creamy butter chicken ahead of time.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the butter chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to keep it sealed well to maintain flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• Let the butter chicken cool down before placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal taste.
• Consider portioning out individual servings for easy thawing and reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Add a splash of water or broth if needed to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I make this Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe with chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can absolutely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly; ensure they are fully cooked and tender.

How spicy is this Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe?

This recipe is mildly spiced, but you can adjust the heat level by adding more curry powder or incorporating red chili flakes according to your preference. Taste during cooking for the best results!

Can I substitute heavy cream in this recipe?

Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use coconut milk or half-and-half. The flavor will be different but still delicious!

What can I serve with Butter Chicken?

Butter chicken pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, or even roti. For an added touch, serve it with a side of cucumber raita or salad!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe! It’s not only simple but also brings a comforting warmth to your dining table. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for your busy week ahead, this dish is bound to delight. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!