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A plate of creamy butter chicken garnished with fresh cilantro, served with steamed rice and naan bread on a rustic wooden table.

Flavorful Weeknight Butter Chicken: A Homemade Delight

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Enjoy a delicious and flavorful homemade butter chicken that’s quick to prepare, perfect for weeknights. This easy butter chicken recipe combines tender chicken pieces in a rich, creamy sauce seasoned with aromatic spices, delivering authentic Indian flavors in just 30-40 minutes. Ideal for busy families and food lovers alike, this dish pairs beautifully with rice or naan for a complete meal.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Begin by marinating the chicken with a pinch of salt, pepper, and turmeric. Set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and golden. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, stir in the tomato paste, garam masala, chili powder, and remaining turmeric. Cook for 2 minutes to develop flavors. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to create a rich, creamy sauce.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the sauce. Mix thoroughly and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Notes

  • Adjust the chili powder to your spice preference.
  • For a thicker sauce, simmer longer or add a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in water.
  • Use fresh cilantro generously for enhanced flavor.
  • Can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stove Top
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup)
  • Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 125mg