Name: Flavorful Homemade Butter Chicken for Easy Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks; 2 tbsp butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp grated ginger; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

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Flavorful Homemade Butter Chicken for Easy Weeknight Dinners 🍛🔥✨

1. Introduction

Are you craving a comforting, rich, and aromatic dish that comes together quickly for busy weeknights? Look no further than this butter chicken recipe — a classic Indian butter chicken that is both creamy and flavorful. Also known as chicken curry or homemade butter chicken, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. With its tender chicken simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce infused with spices and finished with butter and cream, it will become your go-to dinner option. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

2. Ingredient List for Perfect Butter Chicken

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil or ghee
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
3 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

To add a bit of variety, you can also include some yogurt or lemon juice to enhance acidity and tenderness. For a vegan variation, substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like cauliflower or tofu.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Mouthwatering Homemade Butter Chicken

Preparing the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of turmeric for color. In a large skillet or pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil or ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. This step ensures the chicken remains tender and flavorful.

Sautéing the Aromatics

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil or ghee. Add the chopped onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. These aromatics form the base of the rich butter chicken sauce.

Cooking the Tomato Base

Add the crushed tomatoes to the pan along with ground cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and flavors meld. This creates the flavorful sauce that defines this dish.

Adding the Cream and Butter

Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream for a vegan option) along with the butter. Mix until the butter melts and the sauce becomes silky and luscious. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing to coat all pieces in the sauce. Let everything simmer for another 10 minutes to absorb all the flavors and ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Finishing Touches

Taste your homemade butter chicken and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and color. Serve hot over steamed basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Butter Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to restore the sauce’s creaminess. This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

5. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Indian Butter Chicken Experience

Serve over fluffy steamed basmati rice or fragrant jasmine rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Pair with warm naan bread to scoop up the delicious butter chicken.
Add a side of cucumber raita or a simple green salad to balance the richness.

For an extra protein boost, add cooked chickpeas or vegetables like bell peppers and spinach.

For a quick side dish, check out this creamy spinach and mushroom pasta skillet for inspiration.

6. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Preparing delicious butter chicken becomes even easier with the right tools. Consider investing in these essentials:

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics: Perfect for quickly cooking or reheating your chicken with even heat distribution, ensuring tender results every time.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ideal for sautéing the aromatics and simmering the sauce without sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: For versatile cooking options, including grilling chicken for added flavor and texture.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Homemade Butter Chicken

Can I make butter chicken ahead of time?

Yes, this dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.

Can I substitute yogurt or coconut milk for cream?

Absolutely! Yogurt or coconut milk can be used as dairy-free or lighter alternatives to heavy cream. Just add them at the end of cooking to prevent curdling and enjoy a luscious sauce.

How long does it take to prepare homemade butter chicken?

The entire process from start to finish takes approximately 40-50 minutes, making it an excellent weeknight dinner option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Is butter chicken spicy?

This recipe can be adjusted to your spice preference. Use more chili powder or omit it altogether for a milder dish. The amount of chili powder can be tailored to suit your taste buds.

8. Conclusion

In summary, this butter chicken recipe offers a delightful combination of rich, aromatic, and creamy flavors that come together effortlessly for an easy weeknight dinner. By following step-by-step instructions, you can achieve restaurant-quality results at home—no need for takeout! The versatility of this dish allows you to customize spice levels and accompaniments, making it perfect for any occasion. Dive into the world of Indian cuisine and enjoy the comfort of homemade butter chicken tonight!

Flavorful Homemade Butter Chicken for Easy Weeknight Dinners