Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken: A Weeknight Wonder!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 3 tbsp butter; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated; 1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option; 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 & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken: A Weeknight Wonder! 🍗✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a flavorful and comforting dish that can be prepared quickly, this homemade butter chicken recipe is your answer. Known for its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, this easy butter chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when time is limited but flavor is non-negotiable. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality butter chicken from the comfort of your home without any hassle.

While many associate butter chicken with traditional Indian cuisine, this quick butter chicken recipe simplifies the process, making it accessible even for beginner cooks. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a home cook looking for a straightforward dinner idea, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

2. Ingredients for Homemade Butter Chicken

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
3 tbsp butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Get all the ingredients ready to enjoy a flavorful and creamy butter chicken that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Homemade Butter Chicken

Preparation of Chicken

Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of turmeric. You can also marinate the chicken with a little yogurt and spices for extra tenderness, but this step is optional if you’re short on time.

Cooking the Chicken

In a large skillet or pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Preparing the Sauce

In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the chopped onions until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Stir in the spices: garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.

Add the tomato puree and simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce. Pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through and creamy.

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Homemade Butter Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot. For longer storage, freeze the butter chicken in portions — it will keep well for up to 3 months.

5. Serving Suggestions for Homemade Butter Chicken

For a complete meal, serve this homemade butter chicken over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan bread. Pair it with some of the flavorful side dishes like crispy garlic smashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a satisfying dinner.

Enhance your dinner with a refreshing beverage or a side of pumpkin muffins for a touch of seasonal flavor.

6. FAQ – Your Questions About Homemade Butter Chicken Answered

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well but tend to be leaner. Be careful not to overcook to keep the chicken tender and juicy.

Is homemade butter chicken healthy?

This dish can be made healthier by using light cream or coconut milk and adjusting the amount of butter. Pairing it with whole grains and vegetables enhances its nutritional value.

How long does it take to prepare?

The entire process takes approximately 30 minutes, making it a perfect quick butter chicken recipe for busy nights.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely! Prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. Reheat and add cooked chicken when ready to serve for maximum freshness.

7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

To make your homemade butter chicken cooking experience as smooth as possible, consider these essential tools:

Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – Perfect for slow-cooking seasoned chicken or making ahead for meal prep, this slow cooker simplifies the process and saves time.
KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer – Use this versatile mixer to prep ingredients or make bread accompaniments effortlessly.
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Ideal for making refreshing drinks to pair with your meal or chilling your ingredients quickly.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 – For healthier crispy sides or reheating leftovers with that just-cooked crunch.

8. Final Tips to Perfect Your Homemade Butter Chicken

Using fresh, quality spices truly elevates this dish. Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste, whether you prefer it milder or spicier. Don’t forget to simmer the sauce long enough for flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and creamy texture. And most importantly, have fun experimenting with garnishes and side dishes!

9. Conclusion

With this quick & easy homemade butter chicken, you can enjoy a delightful home-cooked meal packed with flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for weeknights, it brings the warmth and richness of traditional Indian cuisine right to your dinner table. Try this recipe today and transform your mealtime into a flavorful adventure you’ll want to repeat often!

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken: A Weeknight Wonder!