Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Creamy Butter Chicken for Quick Weeknight Dinners 🍗🧈✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a comforting yet quick dinner, look no further than this creamy butter chicken. This homemade butter chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a flavorful, rich dish without hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken simmered in a velvety sauce, this easy butter chicken recipe can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it a favorite for family dinners or last-minute meal planning.

2. Ingredients Needed for This Delicious Butter Chicken

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cubed
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp garam masala
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free version
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfectly Creamy Butter Chicken

Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of garam masala. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté the onion until translucent, then add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant. This creates a flavorful base for your sauce.

Build the Sauce

Add the spices—garam masala, paprika, cumin, and turmeric—to the aromatics, cooking for about 30 seconds to release their aroma. Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well, allowing it to simmer for 5 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Add the Cream and Chicken

Stir in the heavy cream, balancing the richness with the acidity of the tomatoes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it thoroughly in the sauce. Simmer everything together for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Final Touches

Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired. Serve your creamy butter chicken hot over rice or with warm naan bread for a complete meal.

4. Tips for Storing and Reheating

This homemade butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to restore the creamy texture.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Easy Butter Chicken

Pair your creamy butter chicken with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread for the ultimate comfort meal. For a colorful side, consider a simple cucumber raita or roasted vegetables. Looking for quick sides? Check out this savory sausage and cabbage stir-fry for a complementary dish.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Creamy Butter Chicken

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well in this recipe, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful when cooked quickly.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute coconut cream or cashew cream for heavy cream. The flavor remains rich and delicious.

How long does it take to prepare?

This quick butter chicken recipe can be prepared and cooked in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, store leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures even heating and easy cleanup for cooking your butter chicken.
• KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer: Useful for preparing sauces or crushing garlic and ginger efficiently.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker: Perfect for making refreshing drinks to enjoy alongside your meal.

8. Additional recipes to try

If you enjoyed this homemade butter chicken, explore other quick and flavorful dishes like the creamy low-carb chicken bake or easy crockpot teriyaki chicken.

9. Conclusion

This creamy butter chicken recipe is a game-changer for busy families and anyone craving a cozy, flavorful dinner. Its rich, spiced tomato and cream sauce clings to tender chicken, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet is quick enough to make on a weeknight. Try it today and elevate your dinner routine with this easy butter chicken that’s sure to become a household favorite!

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