Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken: An Incredible 7-Ingredient Recipe

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a delightful way to bring the delicious flavors of Indian cuisine to your table without spending hours in the kitchen. This incredible dish features tender pieces of chicken simmered in a creamy tomato sauce infused with aromatic spices. It’s an amazing meal that guarantees to impress everyone from your family to your dinner guests. With this guide, you’ll discover just how simple it can be to create a beautiful, restaurant-quality meal at home.
If you love the rich and flavorful essence of butter chicken, you’re in for a treat. This version simplifies the process while maintaining all the traditional tastes and aromas that make this dish so special. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe ensures that you can whip up this savory delight in no time. The warm, comforting flavors are perfect for any occasion, and it pairs wonderfully with rice or naan. So, let’s dive into the details that make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken a must-try recipe!
In this article, you’ll explore why this recipe stands out, the preparation and cooking times, a comprehensive list of ingredients, easy step-by-step instructions, and tips on how to serve this delicious dish. You’ll see how accessible it is to make an incredible chicken dinner that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The love for Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken lies in its perfect balance of flavors and ease of preparation. Here are some reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:
1. Minimal Ingredients: With only seven main ingredients, you likely have most of them already in your pantry.
2. Time-Saving: This recipe takes under 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal weekday meal.
3. Deliciously Creamy: The buttery sauce is rich and flavorful, elevating simple chicken to extraordinary heights.
4. Versatile: Whether served with basmati rice or warm naan, this dish fits any dining occasion.
5. Kid-Friendly: The mild yet flavorful sauce makes it appealing to young palates.
6. Easy Clean-Up: Cooked in just one pan, making the clean-up a breeze.
With these compelling reasons, you can understand why this butter chicken recipe has become a staple in many households. Each bite offers a heavenly experience that will leave you craving more.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Your culinary journey to Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken will be efficient! Here’s a breakdown of the time required:
– Preparation Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes
This succinct time frame is what makes this dish perfect for those busy nights when you crave comfort food without the hassle.

Ingredients

– 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon butter or ghee
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 can (15 ounces) tomato puree
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is straightforward. Follow these easy steps:
1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
2. Add Garlic and Ginger: Mix in the minced garlic and ginger. Continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Sauté until they are no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Incorporate Tomato Puree: Pour in the tomato puree and mix well. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
5. Stir in Heavy Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Mix until everything is well combined and the sauce is creamy.
6. Add Spices: Sprinkle in the garam masala and salt. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
7. Taste Adjustments: Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed. You can add more garam masala for a deeper flavor.
8. Garnish: Before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
With these simple steps, your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is ready in no time!

How to Serve

To create a memorable dining experience, consider the following serving suggestions:
1. Accompaniment: Serve with steaming basmati rice or soft naan to soak in the creamy sauce.
2. Presentation: Use a vibrant plate to showcase the rich color of the butter chicken. A sprinkle of cilantro adds a fresh touch.
3. Side Dishes: Pair it with a side of cucumber salad or a light raita to balance the richness of the dish.
4. Beverage Fitting: A refreshing mango lassi or chilled white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
With these tips in mind, you’ll ensure that your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken not only tastes great but looks appealing too! Enjoy your cooking journey and the delightful results that come from it.

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic can boost the flavor significantly. Avoid using dried versions for the best results.
– Spice Adjustment: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for extra spice.
– Garnish: Besides cilantro, a drizzle of cream on top just before serving can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise.
– Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure your chicken pieces are cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
– Experiment with Herbs: A touch of fenugreek leaves can add a unique flavor that’s traditional to butter chicken recipes.

Recipe Variation

You can customize your Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken in several delightful ways:
1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with bite-sized pieces of paneer or tofu for a vegetarian delight.
2. Coconut Cream: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free and slightly tropical twist.
3. Extra Vegetables: Add in spinach or bell peppers to incorporate more nutrients and vibrant colors into your dish.
4. Marination: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in yogurt and garam masala for a few hours before cooking.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store your butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
– Freezing: You can freeze leftover butter chicken for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

You may need a few basic kitchen tools to facilitate your cooking:
– Large skillet or frying pan: Essential for sautéing and simmering.
– Sharp knife: For chopping chicken and vegetables.
– Cutting board: To ensure safety while preparing ingredients.
– Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring your spices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking and flavor absorption.
What can I serve butter chicken with?
It pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan, or even quinoa for a healthier alternative.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can increase the amount of garam masala or add fresh green chilies to the recipe for an added kick.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, using pre-cooked chicken can save time. Just add it to the sauce towards the end to warm it through.
Is this dish good for meal prep?
Absolutely! It’s ideal for meal prep as it only gets better with time once the flavors meld together.

Conclusion

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings authentic Indian tastes to your home without the fuss. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can prepare a rich, creamy meal that delights your family and friends alike. Whether for a casual weekday dinner or a special occasion, this dish delivers fantastic results every time. Don’t hesitate to try the variations and tips to suit your palate. This butter chicken recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household!

Print