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A vibrant plate of butter chicken with a rich, orange-red curry sauce topped with fresh cilantro, served alongside steamed rice on a white dish, garnished with a sprig of cilantro and a side of naan bread. The dish is inviting and vividly colorful with a glossy sauce contrasting with the fluffy rice.

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

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Learn how to make creamy, flavorful homemade butter chicken in just 30 minutes! This quick and easy Indian dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and comfort-food cravings. Enjoy tender chicken pieces in a rich, aromatic sauce that rivals restaurant-quality meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes or tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
  • Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving

Instructions

  1. Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, and cumin. Cook for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
  4. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Simmer for 5 more minutes to let flavors blend and chicken absorb the sauce.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices for a more authentic flavor.
  • Adjust spice levels according to your heat preference.
  • For a creamier texture, simmer the sauce gently and uncovered.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Dairy-Based

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 450 Kcal
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg