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A plate of homemade butter chicken served with steaming basmati rice and fresh herbs, showcasing creamy, golden sauce and tender chicken pieces.

Effortless Homemade Butter Chicken: A Flavorful Weeknight Delight

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Effortless Homemade Butter Chicken is a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that transforms the classic Indian dish into a creamy, tender, and delicious feast. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe combines fragrant spices, succulent chicken, and a rich tomato-based sauce, all prepared in under 30 minutes for a satisfying meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili powder. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, cook for another minute.
  3. Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir. Add garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  4. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Pour in heavy cream, stir gently, and cook for 5 more minutes until heated through and creamy.
  5. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot over steamed basmati rice or naan bread for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Adjust spice levels by varying chili powder quantity.
  • For dairy-free options, replace heavy cream with coconut milk or plant-based cream.
  • Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Flexible (dairy or dairy-free options available)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 420 Kcal
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg