Name: Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken for Quick Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into pieces; 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

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Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken for Quick Dinners 🍛🧈🌶️

1. Introduction

Looking for a comforting and flavorful butter chicken recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights? This homemade butter chicken combines tender chicken in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce with aromatic spices, making it a delicious choice for anything from a quick dinner to a weekend feast. Inspired by Indian butter chicken, this dish is easier to make at home than you think, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of creating a perfectly creamy and spicy chicken curry that rivals restaurant quality, all from the comfort of your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get started!

2. Ingredients for Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons butter or ghee
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for dairy-free option
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken

Preparing the Chicken

In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of paprika. Set aside. Heat a little oil in a large skillet or pot, then add the chicken. Sear until golden brown on all sides, then remove and set aside.

Sautéing Aromatics

In the same pan, melt the butter or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Making the Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and spices (garam masala, cumin, turmeric, paprika, chili powder). Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Add the seared chicken back to the pan. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is rich and creamy.

Finishing Touches

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor and freshness. Serve hot over steamed rice or naan bread.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Butter Chicken

Store any leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. For longer storage, freeze the dish in portions, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. Best Serving Suggestions for Creamy Butter Chicken

This flavorful chicken curry pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan bread, or even roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For added convenience, check out our cranberry turkey stuffing balls or other delicious side options to complement your dinner.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Butter Chicken

Can I make butter chicken dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or coconut cream for a dairy-free version that still produces a rich, creamy texture.

How spicy is this butter chicken recipe?

The recipe includes chili powder, but you can adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the chili amount according to your taste. For milder flavors, use smoked paprika or omit the chili powder altogether.

How long does it take to prepare?

From start to finish, this creamy homemade butter chicken takes about 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for quick dinners and weeknight meals.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics: This versatile appliance helps you cook the chicken quickly and evenly with less oil, perfect for health-conscious preparations.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: A high-quality set that ensures even heat distribution and prevents sticking during simmering and sautéing.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Great for quick searing and grilling chicken, saving time and space in your kitchen.

8. Final thoughts on making the best creamy homemade butter chicken

This easy butter chicken recipe not only brings authentic flavors to your dinner table but also ensures a quick and manageable cooking process. The combination of creamy sauce, aromatic spices, and tender chicken makes it a family favorite. Plus, it’s adaptable to your dietary preferences, so feel free to tweak seasonings or substitute ingredients to suit your needs.

Enjoy mastering this Indian butter chicken at home and impress your family and friends with your cooking skills!

9. Conclusion

Whip up this homemade butter chicken for a cozy, flavorful dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re craving a bowl of comforting chicken curry or an authentic taste of Indian cuisine, this recipe has you covered. With simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips, you will be savoring this creamy, spicy dish in no time. Don’t forget to serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the delicious results!

Creamy Homemade Butter Chicken for Quick Dinners