introduction
I love this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe because it is fast and full of flavor. The sauce is creamy and mild, and the chicken stays tender. You can try other simple dinner ideas like an easy chicken pozole recipe when you want a change.
why make this recipe
This recipe is quick, uses easy pantry items, and makes a comforting meal. It is good for weeknights and for feeding a small group.
how to make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Follow the steps below to marinate, cook, and finish the sauce for a simple butter chicken.
Ingredients :
- 1 ½ 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
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 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
- Steamed rice
Directions :
- In a bowl, mix the chicken with 1 teaspoon salt, garlic powder, paprika, ½ teaspoon curry powder, and Greek yogurt, then cover and refrigerate at least 15 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Sauté minced garlic and diced onion in the skillet until fragrant and soft.
- Add tomato sauce, sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, black pepper, heavy cream, cayenne pepper if using, garam masala, and ½ teaspoon curry powder to the skillet and simmer for a few minutes.
- In another pan, cook the marinated chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
- Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir in the remaining butter until melted.
- Simmer the combined sauce and chicken for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with naan bread and steamed rice.
how to serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Serve the butter chicken hot over steamed rice or with warm naan. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. Offer extra naan on the side for dipping.
how to store Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Cool the dish to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often. For longer storage, freeze up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
– Marinate the chicken at least 15 minutes for better flavor.
– Cook the chicken until just done to keep it tender.
– Taste the sauce and adjust salt and cayenne to your preference.
– Use full-fat cream for a richer sauce.
variation (if any)
You can use chicken breast instead of thighs, but watch cooking time so the meat does not dry. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Add more garam masala for a stronger spice note.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe milder for kids?
A: Yes. Leave out the cayenne and use less garam masala to keep it mild.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: You can, but thaw it fully and pat dry before marinating so the spices stick well.
Q: How long does the sauce last on its own?
A: Keep the sauce in the fridge up to 3 days in a sealed container.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Brown the chicken first, then add sauce ingredients and cook on low 3–4 hours.
Conclusion
If you want a quick, user-friendly version of butter chicken, try the tested short recipe at Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken on Gimme Delicious.