Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: PT-486889H5M8S
Cuisine: Indian
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

If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s simple to make, look no further than this quick and easy homemade butter chicken recipe. This dish has become a favorite in my kitchen for its rich and creamy sauce and tender chicken, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Great flavors: The combination of spices in the marinade and sauce creates a deliciously complex and aromatic dish.
Quick prep time: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have this butter chicken ready in no time.
Perfect for meal prep: This recipe is great for batch cooking and can be easily reheated for future meals.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Chicken & Marinade:

Skinless boneless chicken thighs: Adds tenderness and flavor to the dish.
Greek yogurt: Helps tenderize the chicken and adds a tangy flavor.
For the Butter Chicken Sauce:
Tomato sauce: Provides a rich and savory base for the sauce.
Heavy cream: Adds creaminess and balances out the spices.
To Serve:
Naan bread and steamed rice: Perfect accompaniments to soak up the delicious sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a bowl, combine the chicken with the marinade ingredients and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil and butter, then sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant.
Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned, then stir in the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper.
Pour in the heavy cream and spices, then simmer until the sauce thickens.
Serve the butter chicken hot with naan bread and steamed rice.

Helpful Tips:

For a healthier version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
To add more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the sauce.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Toasting the spices before adding them to the sauce can enhance their aroma.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this butter chicken with fragrant basmati rice, cucumber raita, and a refreshing mango lassi for a complete Indian-inspired meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs are recommended for their juiciness.
Can I freeze the butter chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the sauce separately for up to 3 months.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion:

Try this homemade butter chicken recipe for a delicious and comforting meal that will surely impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices and ingredients to make it your own. Enjoy!