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Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe You’ll Love

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe transforms weeknight meals into cozy culinary experiences.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound Chicken Thighs cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika Smoked paprika can add a different flavor profile
  • 1 teaspoon Curry Powder Curry blends vary, so taste for potency
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Use full-fat yogurt or buttermilk for similar results
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Can use butter or ghee for more flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Use cold butter added at the end for a silky finish
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh, minced for aromatic flavor
  • 1 medium Onion Diced for sweetness and texture
  • 15 ounces Tomato Sauce Canned crushed tomatoes can be used
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Optional; adjust based on tomato sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Could substitute with freshly ground black pepper for more flavor
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Coconut cream for a dairy-free option
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Omit for milder flavor or adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Garam Masala Use fresh for best results
For Serving
  • 2 tablespoons Parsley Or cilantro for a different herb profile
  • 4 pieces Naan Bread Can use store-bought or homemade
  • 2 cups Steamed Rice Can replace with quinoa for an alternative grain

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step‑By‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Ensure the chicken is well-coated with the marinade. Set aside for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Heat a splash of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sauté for 3-4 minutes until onion is translucent and fragrant.
  4. Pour in the tomato sauce and add a pinch of sugar. Stir and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
  5. Stir in heavy cream, along with cayenne pepper, garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper. Simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until fully cooked and the sauce is rich and creamy.
  6. Stir in the remaining cold butter until melted for a silky finish. Sprinkle parsley or cilantro on top if desired.
  7. Serve hot alongside warm naan bread and steamed rice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Leftovers can be stored for later enjoyment, making this recipe an excellent choice for meal prepping or batching ahead.

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