Homemade Butter Chicken

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about walking into a kitchen filled with rich, savory aromas that draw you in like a warm hug on a chilly day. This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe will transform your kitchen into a fragrant Indian eatery where spices dance and warmth envelops you. With hints of ginger, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices mingling in the air, you will feel the bustle of a family gathering and the joy that comes with sharing a meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe isn’t just about creating a delicious dish; it’s about creating experiences that linger long after the plates are empty. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll adore making this homemade butter chicken:

• Ready in 30 minutes — Perfect for busy weeknights yet indulgent enough for gatherings.
• Brings everyone together — The rich flavors spark joy and conversation around the dinner table.
• Feels festive and special — Ideal for festivities or to spice up a regular dinner.
• Comforting and indulgent — Each bite wraps you in warmth, making even the toughest day feel lighter.
• Flexible and customizable — You can easily adapt it to meet dietary needs or personal preferences.

Ingredients with Notes

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful butter chicken, along with helpful notes:

• Chicken thighs or breasts (500g): Thighs offer juicy tenderness, but breasts work well if you prefer lean meat.
• Salt (1 tsp): Essential for enhancing flavors.
• Ground turmeric (1 tsp): Gives that beautiful golden hue and a mild, earthy flavor.
• Ground cumin (1 tsp): Adds warmth and depth.
• Ground coriander (1 tsp): Provides a fresh, citrusy note.
• Ginger (1-inch piece, grated): Freshness elevates the dish; you can substitute with powder if necessary.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses incredible depth; use pre-minced if short on time.
• Tomato puree (1 cup): For a thick and rich sauce; you can substitute with crushed tomatoes if desired.
• Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Makes the sauce creamy and indulgent; Greek yogurt is a lighter substitute.
• Butter (2 tbsp): The secret to the “butter” taste, but olive oil works too.
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish): Adds a splash of color and freshness at the end.
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp): Brightens up the flavors; optional but recommended.

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

This quick family meal allows you to enjoy scrumptious homemade food without spending hours in the kitchen.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Start by marinating the chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with salt, turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, and garlic. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prep the rest.

2. Sauté the spices: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. You’ll notice the spices releasing their heavenly fragrances.

3. Add the tomato puree: Pour in the tomato puree, stirring well to coat the chicken. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

4. Stir in the cream: Gently mix in the heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes. The sauce will start to thicken and become glossy, promising an indulgent treat.

5. Finish with lemon juice: Sprinkle the lemon juice for a refreshing lift, and taste for seasoning. Adjust with more salt if needed.

6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for that perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Variations

• Healthy swaps: Use skinless chicken for a leaner option, or substitute light coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Seasonal twists: Add in some spinach or peas for a pop of color and additional nutrients during the spring.
• Flavor upgrades: Toss in a pinch of garam masala or smoked paprika for a smoky depth.

Serving Ideas

This cozy favorite pairs excellently with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan, or a fresh, crisp salad for a balanced meal. A glass of chilled mango lassi or a refreshing cucumber salad can also elevate the experience. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, presenting your butter chicken in a vibrant bowl garnished with cilantro will surely impress.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers? No problem! Store your butter chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce from drying out. You can also freeze it for up to two months; just thaw and reheat when you’re ready for another comforting meal.

Chef’s Pro Tips

1. Rest the chicken: Allow the chicken pieces to rest after cooking; this keeps them juicy.
2. Use fresh herbs: Add cilantro right before serving for a burst of flavor.
3. Balance the flavors: Always taste as you go; adding a touch more butter or cream can make all the difference.
4. Get your prep ready: Have all the ingredients prepped and measured in advance to streamline your cooking process.

FAQs

1. Can I substitute chicken for paneer?
   Yes, paneer makes a fantastic vegetarian alternative! Just sauté until golden before adding to the sauce.

2. Can I use low-fat yogurt instead of cream?
   Absolutely! Greek yogurt will add creaminess but must be tempered with a little warm sauce before mixing to prevent curdling.

3. What should I serve alongside butter chicken?
   Basmati rice and naan are traditional, but you can also serve with quinoa or a vibrant veggie side.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Adding chopped green chilies or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper will give your butter chicken a nice kick.

5. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, this recipe scales up beautifully! Just ensure your pan is large enough to accommodate everything.

Conclusion

As you finish cooking this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe, take a moment to inhale the rich, tantalizing scents that fill your kitchen. Each bite promises to transport you to a cozy space filled with laughter and joy. I encourage you to make this dish your own and share it with loved ones, creating memories around the dining table. So, roll up your sleeves and get cooking — happiness is just a simmer away!

Contents

• 1 Homemade Butter Chicken
  • 1.1 Ingredients  
  • 1.2 Method 
  • 1.3 Notes

Homemade Butter Chicken

A fragrant and comforting butter chicken recipe that combines tender chicken pieces with rich spices and creamy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Indian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Chicken and Spices

• 500 g Chicken thighs or breasts Thighs offer juicy tenderness, but breasts work well if you prefer lean meat.
• 1 tsp Salt Essential for enhancing flavors.
• 1 tsp Ground turmeric Gives that beautiful golden hue and a mild, earthy flavor.
• 1 tsp Ground cumin Adds warmth and depth.
• 1 tsp Ground coriander Provides a fresh, citrusy note.
• 1 inch Ginger (grated) Freshness elevates the dish; you can substitute with powder if necessary.
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Fresh garlic infuses incredible depth; use pre-minced if short on time.

Sauce Ingredients

• 1 cup Tomato puree For a thick and rich sauce; you can substitute with crushed tomatoes if desired.
• 1/2 cup Heavy cream Makes the sauce creamy and indulgent; Greek yogurt is a lighter substitute.
• 2 tbsp Butter The secret to the "butter" taste; olive oil works too.
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice Brightens up the flavors; optional but recommended.

Garnish

• Fresh cilantro Adds a splash of color and freshness at the end.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Start by marinating the chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with salt, turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, and garlic. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prep the rest.

Cooking

1. Sauté the spices: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides.
2. Add the tomato puree: Pour in the tomato puree, stirring well to coat the chicken. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cream: Gently mix in the heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Finish with lemon juice: Sprinkle the lemon juice for a refreshing lift, and taste for seasoning. Adjust with more salt if needed.
5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for that perfect finishing touch.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce from drying out. This recipe is also freezable for up to two months.