Name: Effortless Homemade Butter Chicken: A Weeknight Flavor Escape
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp turmeric powder; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Effortless Homemade Butter Chicken: A Weeknight Flavor Escape 🐔🍛✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a rich, flavorful, and comforting dish that comes together quickly, this butter chicken recipe is your perfect solution. Also known as easy butter chicken or homemade butter chicken, this dish combines tender chicken cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices. It’s ideal for weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its smooth, buttery sauce and juicy chicken, this recipe promises to be a new favorite for dinner tables.

2. Ingredients Needed for This Delicious Butter Chicken Recipe

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. How to Make the Perfect Homemade Butter Chicken

Preparing the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cumin. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Sautéing Aromatics

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Cooking the Tomato Base

Add crushed tomatoes to the skillet, stirring well. Mix in garam masala, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric. Let the tomato mixture simmer for 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Adding the Chicken

Incorporate the chicken pieces into the sauce. Cover and cook on low to medium heat until the chicken is cooked through and tender, about 15 minutes.

Finishing with Cream

Stir in heavy cream or coconut cream, simmering for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce is rich and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Butter Chicken

Store cooled butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or gently warm on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months.

5. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Homemade Butter Chicken

This butter chicken recipe pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, or even a fresh side salad. For extra flavor, serve with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with other easy dinner ideas like skillet cheeseburger orzo or garlic bread boats.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Butter Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor to your homemade butter chicken. The cooking time may vary slightly.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free, creamy sauce.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

The entire process takes about 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

What are some suitable substitutions for the spices?

If you don’t have garam masala, a combination of curry powder and cumin works well. Adjust according to your taste.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer – Helps you blend and prepare spices or even make homemade naan for your butter chicken dinner.
CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures even heat distribution for perfectly cooked chicken and sauce.
Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 – Perfect for quick chicken cooking or reheating leftovers to maintain crispness.
Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – To chill your beverages as a refreshing side to your hearty butter chicken meal.

8. Incorporating Internal Links for a Complete Culinary Experience

Explore other delicious recipes on our site, like Effortless Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta for a quick weeknight dinner or try Guilt-Free Greek Yogurt Banana Bread for a sweet ending. These dishes complement your homemade butter chicken beautifully and make your overall meal planning seamless.

9. Conclusion

This butter chicken recipe offers a delightful mix of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors that turn a simple weeknight dinner into an unforgettable experience. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, you can enjoy authentic flavors without the fuss. So, gather your ingredients, use your favorite kitchen tools, and indulge in this delicious homemade butter chicken—your taste buds will thank you!

Effortless Homemade Butter Chicken: A Weeknight Flavor Escape