Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a delicious dinner after a long day. That’s why I love this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. With tender chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced sauce, this dish is sure to impress your loved ones without taking hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s simple enough to make on a weeknight, giving you more time to relax and enjoy family moments. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a lifesaver for busy evenings. It’s not only quick to prepare, but it also bursts with flavor that will make your taste buds dance. The creamy sauce envelops the chicken, creating a comforting dish that feels indulgent yet is simple to make. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce your family to the rich flavors of Indian cuisine without the fuss!
Ingredients for Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breast: Diced into bite-sized pieces, it’s the star of the show, providing protein and heartiness.
- Yogurt: This acts as a tenderizer for the chicken, adding a tangy flavor that balances the spices.
- Butter: A couple of tablespoons add richness and depth to the sauce, making it oh-so-creamy.
- Onion: Finely chopped, it brings sweetness and a savory base to the dish.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor that elevates the overall taste.
- Ginger: Grated ginger gives a warm, zesty kick that complements the spices beautifully.
- Tomato puree: This forms the sauce’s foundation, providing a rich, tangy backdrop.
- Garam masala: A fragrant spice blend that’s essential for that authentic Indian flavor.
- Cumin: Adds an earthy note that enhances the overall taste profile.
- Paprika: For a hint of smokiness and a touch of color.
- Salt: To taste, it’s the magic ingredient that brings all the flavors together.
- Fresh cilantro: For garnish, it adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Feel free to adjust the spices according to your family’s taste preferences. If you’re looking for a little heat, consider adding some chili powder or cayenne pepper. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a breeze to make, and I promise you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar in no time. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table that your family will love.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the diced chicken breast in yogurt. This step is crucial as it tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating it longer will only enhance the taste. I often do this in the morning, so it’s ready when I come home!
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté these aromatics until the onions turn translucent. This step fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma that will make everyone curious about dinner!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Next, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The chicken should be cooked through, but don’t worry; it will finish cooking in the sauce!
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Stir in the tomato puree, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly. The sauce will start to bubble, and you’ll see the vibrant colors come to life. It’s like a warm hug in a pan!
Step 5: Simmer and Serve
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Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Once the chicken is cooked through, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with fresh cilantro for that extra pop of flavor. Enjoy your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken with rice or naan for a complete meal!
Tips for Success
- Marinate the chicken overnight for even more flavor and tenderness.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Adjust the spice levels to suit your family’s taste; add more garam masala for extra warmth.
- Serve with warm naan or fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Don’t skip the cilantro; it brightens the dish beautifully!
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders, but any large pan will do.
- Cutting board: Essential for chopping your ingredients safely.
- Knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes prep quick and easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spatula: Perfect for stirring and serving your delicious creation.
Variations of Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian dish.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Coconut Cream: Replace some of the butter with coconut cream for a tropical flavor and creaminess.
- Low-Fat Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt and reduce the butter for a lighter meal.
- Slow Cooker Adaptation: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach.
Serving Suggestions for Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
- Serve with fluffy basmati rice to soak up the rich sauce.
- Pair with warm naan or roti for a delightful experience.
- A side of cucumber raita adds a refreshing contrast.
- Enjoy with a glass of mango lassi for a sweet touch.
- Garnish with extra cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
FAQs about Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love heat, add diced green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you stir in the spices. Adjust according to your taste for the perfect kick!
Can I make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving.
What can I serve with butter chicken?
Butter chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan, or even a fresh salad. Don’t forget a side of cucumber raita for a refreshing touch!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is perfect for meal prep. Just portion it out in containers, and you’ll have delicious lunches ready to go!
The Joy of Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
There’s something truly magical about serving a dish that warms both the heart and the belly. This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken brings families together, creating moments filled with laughter and love. The rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken make every bite a delightful experience. I cherish the smiles on my family’s faces as they savor this meal, knowing I’ve created something special without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a reminder that cooking can be both simple and rewarding, turning an ordinary evening into a cherished memory. So, let’s embrace the joy of cooking together!
Print
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken for Dinner Tonight!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious recipe for homemade butter chicken that can be prepared quickly for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup yogurt
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken in yogurt for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until onions are translucent.
- Add marinated chicken and cook until browned.
- Stir in tomato puree, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and salt.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Serve with rice or naan for a complete meal.
- Adjust spices according to your taste preference.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg