Name: Quick & Delicious Homemade Butter Chicken: Your Weeknight Favorite!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breasts or 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; 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Quick & Delicious Homemade Butter Chicken: Your Weeknight Favorite! 🥘🍗✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a butter chicken recipe that’s both quick and packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place. This easy butter chicken recipe offers a rich, creamy sauce combined with tender chicken, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy delicious homemade butter chicken in less than 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe guarantees a flavorful experience every time.

2. Ingredients for Homemade Butter Chicken

1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breasts or 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
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Easy Butter Chicken

Preparing the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. In a large skillet or pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Cooking the Aromatics

In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining butter. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Creating the Tomato Sauce

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

Adding Cream and Chicken

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, coating it with the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors of the butter chicken to develop fully.

Final Touches

Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot. Pair this delicious dish with steamed rice or warm naan to complete your meal.

4. Storage tips for Homemade Butter Chicken

Leftover butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to regain its creamy consistency.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious Butter Chicken

For an authentic experience, serve your butter chicken recipe with basmati rice or freshly baked naan bread. A side of roasted vegetables or a light cucumber raita can also complement the rich and spicy flavors. For an extra boost of flavor, try garnishing with extra cilantro or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

6. Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well in this easy butter chicken recipe, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender during cooking.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Coconut milk is a great dairy-free alternative, adding a slight sweetness that pairs nicely with the spices. You can also use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist, but add it at the end to prevent curdling.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The entire process takes approximately 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner solution.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – This versatile cookware set makes cooking and cleaning easier, ensuring your homemade butter chicken turns out perfectly every time.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 – Ideal for quick reheating or roasting vegetables to serve alongside your dish.
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Cool down your beverages or create refreshing drinks to balance the spice of your butter chicken.

8. Conclusion

This butter chicken recipe offers an irresistible combination of simplicity, rich flavors, and creamy textures—making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner. With minimal prep and quick cooking steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality homemade butter chicken right at home. Explore your culinary skills and impress family and friends with this flavorful, comforting dish. Don’t forget to try different side dishes to make your meal truly special!

Quick & Delicious Homemade Butter Chicken: Your Weeknight Favorite!