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Gather ‘round, foodie friends! I’m Chef Emily from vibingRecipes.com, and I’m so excited to share my Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe with you! Let me take you back to when I first discovered this delightful dish – it was a chilly evening, and the air was filled with the fragrant aroma of spices wafting from my kitchen. I had just come home from a long day, tired and a bit cranky, when my lovely friend invited me over for dinner. As soon as I walked into her home, the warm scent of garam masala, garlic, and creamy tomato sauce enveloped me like a cozy blanket, instantly lifting my spirits.
That night, I savored a creamy, velvety butter chicken that not only tantalized my taste buds but also warmed my heart. Each forkful was a dance of flavors – rich, buttery, and just the right amount of spice. Since then, this recipe has become a beloved staple in my kitchen, and I think it will become a favorite for you too! It’s simple and quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for guests. Let’s create a symphony of comfort in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich & Flavorful: A delightful blend of spices and creamy goodness that will satisfy and excite your taste buds.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Great for family dinners and gatherings; everyone will be asking for seconds.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level and ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- Pairs Beautifully: Serve it alongside warm naan and steamed rice for a truly comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks – Tender and juicy, these thighs soak up all the glorious flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the wonderful tastes and brings everything together.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds depth and richness without the chopping hassle.
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika – For a gentle sweetness and beautiful color.
- ½ teaspoon curry powder – A touch of warmth to kick off those fabulous flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt – Gives the chicken a tangy marinade that keeps it moist and flavorful.
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil – A high smoke point oil perfect for sautéing.
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided) – Because butter makes everything better, adding a heavenly richness to every bite.
- 6 garlic cloves (minced) – The aromatic star of the sauce! The more garlic, the better, I always say!
- 1 medium onion (diced) – Adds a sweet base flavor and wonderful texture.
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce – The luscious foundation of our sauce, bringing vibrant color and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sugar – A pinch of sweetness balances the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) – Because flavor is all about balance.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – A gentle kick to enhance all those wonderful spices.
- 2 cups heavy cream – The dreamy, creamy finish that makes this dish comforting and indulgent.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat) – Add this if you like your butter chicken with a bit more of a kick!
- 1 teaspoon garam masala – The signature blend of spices that gives this dish its fragrant aroma.
- ½ teaspoon curry powder – Just a touch more to deepen the flavor.
- ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley (optional, for garnish) – A pop of freshness to brighten up your dish.
- Naan bread – Perfect for scooping up every last bite of that delicious sauce.
- Steamed rice – A fantastic base to soak up all the buttery goodness.
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken chunks with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well, ensuring every piece is lovingly coated. Let it sit for about 15 minutes while you sip on a cup of tea and enjoy the cozy vibes in your kitchen.
Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken to the pan. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through – about 5-7 minutes. The smell will be divine! Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside while we whip up a spectacular sauce.
Prepare the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, toss in 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, stirring frequently until they’re soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Trust me, this is where the magic happens – your kitchen will smell like a little slice of heaven!
Build the Sauce
Now, pour in that luscious tomato sauce, followed by the teaspoon of sugar, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This is when the flavors deepen and mingle – so delightful!
Season and Simmer
Next, lower the heat and slowly whisk in the heavy cream, ensuring everything is well combined. Add the cayenne pepper if you’re feeling spicy, along with the garam masala and an extra sprinkle of curry powder. Let it all simmer together for about 10 minutes; the sauce will thicken beautifully, becoming rich and creamy!
Finish with Butter
Just before serving, add the last tablespoon of butter and stir until it melts into the sauce like a warm hug. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed – perhaps a sprinkle more of salt or pepper for your perfect flavor balance.
Serve and Enjoy
Now that your butter chicken is ready, pair it with warm naan and fluffy steamed rice. Garnish with chopped parsley if you like, and serve it up with love. Dig into the creamy goodness and let your taste buds dance!
Pro Tips for Success
- Use fresh spices! They pack a punch of flavor that truly elevates your dish.
- Don’t rush the simmering process – letting the sauce develop its flavors is key to a delicious butter chicken.
- Taste as you go! Adjust the spice and seasoning to fit your palate – it’s your kitchen, after all!
- Make it a family affair! Get everyone involved in the cooking process, and share the love.
Flavor Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a delicious vegetarian twist.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in some cream cheese or shredded mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Herb Infused: Try adding fresh cilantro or basil to provide a refreshing herbal flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Butter chicken shines as the star of any meal! Serve it alongside fluffy naan and a mound of steamed rice; don’t forget a side of cooling cucumber raita or a simple salad to balance out the richness! As for drinks, try a chilled mango lassi or a refreshing cucumber mint cooler.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can easily prep the chicken and marinate it the night before. For storing, place cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Enjoy the tempting aroma as it warms up for lunch the next day!
Leftovers
Transform those butter chicken leftovers into a delightful wrap! Place it in a warm tortilla with fresh veggies for a hearty lunch, or stir it into a comforting pasta for a twist on dinner.
Freezing
Yes, indeed! Butter chicken freezes beautifully. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container after it’s cooled and store for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Reheating
For best results, reheat in the skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or water if needed to loosen the sauce. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works just fine, too – heat in short bursts, stirring in between to prevent spots from getting too hot.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and tenderness, chicken breasts will work just fine.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce a day ahead, just combine and finish cooking when you’re ready to serve.
Is butter chicken spicy?
The spice level is adjustable! Leave out the cayenne pepper for a milder version, or add more to suit your taste.
What can I serve with butter chicken?
Naan and steamed rice are the perfect pairing, but you can also serve it with a fresh salad or warm quinoa for a nutritious twist.
Final Thoughts
Sweet friends, I hope you’re as excited to try this delightful Butter Chicken Recipe as I am to share it with you! There’s something so heartwarming about gathering around a table to enjoy a cozy meal. Remember, cooking is about experimenting and having fun. Don’t stress over perfection – embrace the messy, beautiful moments in the kitchen. Happy cooking, and may your home be filled with love, laughter, and the delightful aroma of homemade butter chicken! Enjoy every bite!
Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken chunks with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix well, ensuring every piece is lovingly coated. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken to the pan. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through – about 5-7 minutes.
- In the same skillet, toss in 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, stirring frequently until they’re soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in that luscious tomato sauce, followed by the teaspoon of sugar, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and slowly whisk in the heavy cream, ensuring everything is well combined. Add the cayenne pepper, garam masala, and an extra sprinkle of curry powder. Let it all simmer together for about 10 minutes.
- Just before serving, add the last tablespoon of butter and stir until it melts into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Pair the butter chicken with warm naan and fluffy steamed rice. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.