Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Introduction
Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is a popular Indian dish known for its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken pieces. This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy authentic flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a delicious meal that is sure to impress family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe?
This butter chicken recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful. It’s a comforting dish that combines aromatic spices with a luscious tomato and cream sauce. You can customize the dish to your taste, whether you prefer it mild or spicy. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe can be served in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for quick dinners.
How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Follow these simple steps to create your own butter chicken at home!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute.
- Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
- Mix in garam masala, cumin, and paprika, cooking for a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Butter chicken pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan, or roti. For an added touch, consider serving it with a side of cucumber salad or roasted vegetables. You can also drizzle a little lemon juice over the top for a zesty flavor.
How to Store Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
If you have leftovers, store your butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
- For a richer flavor, use ghee instead of butter.
- Adjust the spice levels by altering the amount of garam masala and paprika.
- If you want to add vegetables, peas and bell peppers work well and complement the dish.
- Serve with a dollop of yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: You can replace chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Spicy Butter Chicken: Add chopped green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the spiciness.
- Coconut Butter Chicken: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe and will add extra flavor and tenderness.
2. Is butter chicken healthy?
Butter chicken can be part of a balanced diet, but it’s best enjoyed in moderation as it is rich in cream and butter.
3. Can I freeze butter chicken?
Absolutely! Make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep well for up to 3 months.
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting vibes that this dish brings to your dining table!
Homemade Butter Chicken
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute.
- Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
- Mix in garam masala, cumin, and paprika, cooking for a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
