Easy 30-Minute Homemade Butter Chicken

Easy 30-Minute Homemade Butter Chicken: A Creamy, Flavorful Delight 🍗🧈🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a rich and savory easy butter chicken recipe that can be prepared in just half an hour, you’ve come to the right place. This homemade butter chicken recipe combines aromatic spices with tender chicken in a luscious, buttery sauce, making it an ideal 30-minute chicken curry for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a seasoned Indian cuisine lover or trying it for the first time, this quick Indian chicken dish offers authentic flavors with minimal effort. For more quick chicken dishes, check out this 30-minute cowboy butter chicken pasta.

2. Ingredients Needed for a Quick and Delicious Butter Chicken

• 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Preparing the Ingredients for a Quick Indian Chicken Dish

Chopping and Marinating the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. If time permits, marinate the chicken with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of ginger garlic paste for 10 minutes to enhance flavor, but this step is optional for a quicker recipe. For efficient prep, use a high-quality Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master.

Preparing the Spice Paste

Mix the ground spices—garam masala, cumin, turmeric, smoked paprika, chili powder—together. This spice blend forms the backbone of your flavorful homemade butter chicken.

4. Step-by-Step Guide to Making a 30-minute Chicken Curry

Cooking the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Preparing the Sauce

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter. Stir in the ginger garlic paste and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the tomato puree and the spice blend, stirring well. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk, stirring to create a creamy, luscious quick Indian chicken dish. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until heated through and thickened. For a more efficient prep, consider using an Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 for quick cooking.

5. Tips for Perfectly Creamy and Flavorful Butter Chicken

• Adjust the spice levels according to your heat preference.
• Use fresh cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
• Sauté the spices longer for a more intense flavor, but remember this may slightly extend the cooking time.
• Serve immediately for optimal creaminess and taste.

6. Storage Tips for Leftover Homemade Butter Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat gently on the stove over low-medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream if necessary to restore its creamy consistency. This makes for a quick and satisfying meal even the day after preparing it. To keep leftovers fresh, consider using the JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set.

7. Serving Suggestions for Your Easy Butter Chicken

This delectable quick Indian chicken pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, or even quinoa for a healthy twist. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon to add brightness. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some toasted fenugreek seeds or a dash of chili flakes. For a fun dessert, try our easy no-bake mini key lime pies.

8. FAQs About the Best Easy Butter Chicken Recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs add more tenderness and flavor. Cook slightly longer to ensure they’re fully cooked.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the sauce and chicken separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve. The flavors deepen overnight.

Is this a spicy butter chicken recipe?

It can be made mild or spicy—simply adjust the chili powder and add more or less according to your preference.

What can I serve with this quick chicken curry?

Serve with steamed basmati rice, warm naan bread, or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete Indian-inspired meal.

9. Conclusion

This easy butter chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you desire a hearty, flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Its creamy, spiced sauce combined with tender chicken makes it a favorite for family dinners or entertaining guests. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can master this homemade butter chicken and enjoy authentic Indian flavors in just 30 minutes. For kitchen tools to help you prepare it faster, consider the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set. Give it a try today and indulge in this quick, comforting, and delicious chicken curry!

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