Easy Butter Chicken
The aroma of Easy Butter Chicken wafting from the kitchen fills the air, swirled with the warm and inviting notes of garlic, spices, and creamy richness that beckons everyone around. Imagine tender chunks of chicken, enveloped in a velvety sauce, each bite melting in your mouth. It’s comfort food that soothes the soul on restless evenings and brightens up cozy weekends alike.
Table of Contents
I still remember the first time I tried butter chicken—sitting in a small Indian restaurant, the colors of the decor vibrant against my plate of steaming, fragrant curry. That moment inspired my culinary adventures, and now, I’m thrilled to share this simplified version with you, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating with friends or simply treating yourself after a long day, you’re in for an indulgence.
So, roll up your sleeves and let the comforting magic of homemade Easy Butter Chicken transform your dinner table into a delightful feast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Whip this up in just 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Irresistible Flavor: A creamy, spiced sauce that packs a punch, complemented by tender chicken.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant orange sauce is sure to impress anyone at your table.
- Flexible Serving: Great for cozy nights in or smart enough for gatherings with friends.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable to suit gluten-free or dairy-free diets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: Dark meat keeps the chicken juicy and tender as it cooks, making it ideal for the rich sauce. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them.
- 1 teaspoon salt (for marinade): Enhances the chicken’s flavor deeply and balances the richness of the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory depth to the marinade, contributing to the overall taste profile.
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika: Introduces a warmth and mild sweetness, inviting a touch of color to the dish. Smoked paprika can also be used for a more robust flavor.
- 0.5 teaspoon curry powder (for marinade): Moves the flavor needle towards that authentic taste right from the start.
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt: Holds moisture and creates that creamy texture in the marinade while also helping to tenderize the chicken.
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil: Perfect for sautéing the chicken, it has a high smoke point. You can swap it for olive oil as a lighter option.
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided): Adds luxurious creaminess to the sauce, making it silky; use unsalted to control salt levels.
- 6 cloves garlic (minced): Freshly minced garlic brightens the dish, elevating it with its aromatic qualities.
- 1 medium onion (diced): Sautéing onion until translucent releases its natural sweetness—key for building flavor.
- 15 ounces tomato sauce (1 can): Forms the base of your sauce, giving it color and body; crushed tomatoes also work beautifully if you prefer a chunkier sauce.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomato sauce, enhancing its flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste): Essential to bring out all other flavors; tasting throughout is essential!
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper: A simple addition to round out the taste without overpowering.
- 2 cups heavy cream: The star of the show, giving it that lush, creamy texture.
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat): Kick it up a notch if you like some spice to complement the rich sauce.
- 1 teaspoon garam masala: Adds warmth and a layer of Indian spices that truly makes this dish special.
- 0.5 teaspoon curry powder (for sauce): Use this to deepen the complexity and flavor of the sauce.
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley (chopped, optional for garnish): A pop of color and fresh taste that lifts the dish.
- Naan bread (for serving): Perfect for scooping up that luscious sauce—an absolute must!
- Steamed rice (for serving): A classic pairing, allowing you to soak up every last bit of that marvelous sauce.
How to Make Easy Butter Chicken
Marinate Chicken: Begin by placing the bite-sized chunks of chicken thighs in a medium bowl. Add salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt. Mix it all together until every piece is nicely coated. Set it aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.
Brown the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken chunks, cooking them for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet but keep that flavorful oil; it’s going to work its magic in the next steps.
Sauté Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium and toss in 1 tablespoon of butter into the same skillet. Scrape any delicious browned bits from the bottom, adding a splash of water if necessary. Add the minced garlic and diced onion accompanied by a pinch of salt. Sauté them patiently for about 4 to 5 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant; this step lays the groundwork for an incredibly flavorful dish.
Build Sauce with Tomato: Pour in the tomato sauce and add the teaspoon of sugar, letting it simmer for about 2 to 3 minutes. Bring back the chicken to the skillet and stir well, ensuring every piece is coated with that bright, inviting sauce.
Add Cream and Seasonings: Next, pour in the heavy cream, watching as the sauce transforms into a beautiful orange hue. If you enjoy a kick, sprinkle in the cayenne pepper, then add the garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes. Taste along the way, adjusting salt for your ideal flavor.
Finish with Butter: Right before serving, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of cold butter. This final touch not only enhances the silkiness of the sauce but also adds a rich depth of flavor. If you desire, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of freshness.
Serve: Grab some warm naan bread and a serving of steamed rice, then ladle your delicious **Easy Butter Chicken** over top. Don’t hold back—enjoy every bite immediately while it’s hot and comforting!
Storing & Reheating
When it comes to storing leftovers, allow your Easy Butter Chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container, where it can chill for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For long-term storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. You may notice the texture changes slightly, but a splash of cream will help refresh its silky finish.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid crowding the pan when browning the chicken to ensure even cooking and a nice sear.
- Use room temperature Greek yogurt for a smoother marinade consistency.
- Keep an eye on cooking times; chicken should be cooked to 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper based on your spice preference; you can always start with less.
- If you find the sauce too thick, feel free to add a splash of water or broth to thin it out.
The creamy, spiced Easy Butter Chicken not only warms your body but also your spirit, awakening the flavors of home-cooked meals with every bite. Don’t hesitate to make it your way, adding in your favorite spices or swapping ingredients based on what you have at hand. The beauty lies not just in the stunning taste but also in the comfort it brings as you share it with your loved ones.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs add a tender juiciness that’s hard to beat, chicken breasts can work as well. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can easily dry out. Aim for a cooking time of 5-7 minutes less than thighs.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just be aware that this will lend a subtle coconut flavor to the dish, which can be delightful if you enjoy it!
What sides pair well with Easy Butter Chicken?
Naan bread and steamed rice are traditional pairings that help soak up the delicious sauce. You might also serve it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes, both the marinating and cooking can happen ahead of time. Just prepare the dish, let it cool, store in the fridge, and reheat it gently on the stove. The flavors will have matured overnight, making it even more tasty!
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📖 Recipe Card
Easy Butter Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
This Easy Butter Chicken features tender chicken thighs in a creamy, spiced sauce that melts in your mouth—perfect for a comfort food dinner or special gathering.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt (for marinade)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon curry powder (for marinade)
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 15 ounces tomato sauce (1 can)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 0.5 teaspoon curry powder (for sauce)
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley (chopped, optional for garnish)
- Naan bread (for serving)
- Steamed rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt for 15 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet and brown the marinated chicken for 8 to 10 minutes, then remove it from the skillet.
- Sauté minced garlic and diced onion in the same skillet for about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add tomato sauce and sugar, let it simmer, then return the chicken to the skillet.
- Pour in heavy cream, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and curry powder; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in remaining butter before serving.
Notes
Allow leftovers to cool before storing in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
For freezing, use a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheat on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 589
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 41g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
