Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a delightful fusion of creamy, spiced sauce and tender chicken, bringing the rich flavors of Indian cuisine to your kitchen in under an hour. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, impressing guests, or meal prepping for the week ahead. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish without the hassle.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1½ 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

• 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 and steamed rice, for serving

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken
   In a medium bowl, combine chicken, salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.

2. Cook the Chicken
   Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, leaving the oil in the pan.

3. Prepare the Sauce Base
   Reduce the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Deglaze the pan by scraping any browned bits, adding a splash of water if needed. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, along with a pinch of salt. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

4. Build the Sauce
   Stir in the tomato sauce and sugar. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes before adding the chicken back into the skillet. Mix well, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir until the sauce turns a beautiful orange hue.

5. Season and Simmer
   Add cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning to taste.

6. Finish with Butter
   Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of cold butter and let it melt into the sauce for a silky finish. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.

7. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice. Enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Marinate Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.

• Spicy Version: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add chopped green chilies to the sauce for extra heat.

• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and plant-based butter alternatives.

• Smoky Flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade for a smoky undertone.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used; however, thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe includes cayenne pepper for heat, but it’s optional. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

What can I serve with butter chicken?

Butter chicken pairs well with naan bread, steamed rice, or a side of sautéed vegetables.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

While the recipe is designed for stovetop cooking, you can adapt it for a slow cooker by adding the ingredients and cooking on low for 4-6 hours.

Is there a vegetarian version of butter chicken?

Yes, substitute chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian alternative.

Can I freeze butter chicken?

Yes, butter chicken freezes well. Ensure it’s stored in an airtight container and consumed within 2 months.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken.

Can I use canned tomato sauce?

Yes, canned tomato sauce is used in this recipe. Ensure it’s plain without added seasonings.

How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?

Simply multiply the ingredients by the desired number of servings. Ensure your cooking vessel is large enough to accommodate the increased quantity.

Conclusion

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Indian cuisine to your home. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this recipe offers a delicious and satisfying option that’s both simple and impressive.