Homemade Butter Chicken

why make this recipe

Butter chicken is a beloved dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. It’s creamy, spiced, and full of rich taste. Making this quick and easy homemade butter chicken means you can enjoy restaurant-quality food right in your kitchen without spending hours cooking. Plus, it’s versatile! Pair it with naan bread or steamed rice for a complete meal.

how to make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

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

Directions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the minced garlic and diced onion until the onion is soft and translucent.
4. Build the Sauce: Add the tomato sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes.
5. Season and Simmer: Return the chicken to the pan. Add heavy cream, cayenne pepper (if using), garam masala, and curry powder. Mix everything together and let it simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Finish with Butter: Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter until melted, giving the sauce a silky texture.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve it with warm naan bread or steamed rice.

how to serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Serve your butter chicken hot, accompanied by warm naan bread or a bowl of fluffy steamed rice. The creamy sauce is perfect for dipping or soaking up with bread. You can also add a side salad for a refreshing contrast.

how to store Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

To store leftover butter chicken, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

tips to make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

• For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
• Use a mix of chicken thighs and breasts for varied texture.
• Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
• For a thicker sauce, simmer it longer to reduce it.

variation

You can add vegetables like peas or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrition. Some people like to use paneer instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be mindful that cooking time may vary slightly.

2. Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted by reducing or omitting the cayenne pepper.

3. Can I make butter chicken in advance?
Yes, butter chicken keeps well in the fridge and the flavors actually get better the next day! Just store it properly in an airtight container.

4. What can I serve with butter chicken?
Traditionally, butter chicken is served with naan bread or rice, but you can also pair it with quinoa or a simple salad.

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