Did you know that over 90% of people surveyed said they find cooking homemade meals to be more satisfying than ordering takeout? If you’ve been craving the rich flavors of Indian cuisine but feel daunted by elaborate recipes, then look no further! This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe will not only save you time but will also delight your taste buds with its creamy, spiced goodness. In under 90 minutes—a remarkable 20% less time than many traditional recipes—you can serve a delightful meal that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Quantity | Substitution Options |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast, boneless | 1 lb | Paneer or tofu for a vegetarian option |
| Butter | 4 tbsp | Coconut oil for dairy-free option |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Full-fat coconut milk |
| Canned tomatoes | 1 can (15 oz) | Fresh tomatoes (2 cups chopped) |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves | Garlic powder (1 tsp) |
| Ginger, minced | 1 tbsp | Ground ginger (1 tsp) |
| Garam masala | 1 tbsp | Curries spices mix |
| Chili powder | 1 tsp | Paprika for milder taste |
| Salt | To taste | N/A |
| Cilantro, chopped | For garnish | Parsley as an alternative |
Timing
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
This is remarkable considering that the average homemade Butter Chicken recipe can take approximately 90 minutes to prepare. With this quick method, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in almost half that time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized cubes. In a large bowl, combine the chicken with a teaspoon of salt, chili powder, ginger, and garlic. Mix well to ensure the pieces are evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes. This marination infuses the meat with flavor, enhancing the final dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 7-10 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. The browning will bring out a delightful depth of flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, add another 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the canned tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Stir in the garam masala and remaining salt, letting the sauce cook for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial, as it builds the base of your butter chicken sauce.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour the heavy cream into the sauce and stir until well combined. Let everything simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The sauce should become thick and creamy, coating the chicken perfectly.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
To serve, ladle the butter chicken into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Pair it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal experience. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that this dish brings!
Nutritional Value / Health Benefits
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/4 of recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 3g |
This butter chicken recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a solid amount of protein from chicken, essential for muscle growth and repair. The use of spices like ginger and garlic promotes heart health and boosts metabolism, making this recipe both delicious and beneficial.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you are looking to reduce calories or increase nutritional content, here are some alternatives you can consider:
- Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt alternative for lower fat content.
- Use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, richer flavor while still being healthy.
- Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the sauce for extra vitamins and minerals.
Serving Suggestions
Butter chicken is versatile, and there are many ways to serve it:
- With Rice: Serve over fluffy basmati rice to soak up the rich sauce.
- With Naan: Pair with garlic naan or chapati for a complete Indian experience.
- Salad Side: A fresh cucumber and tomato salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Feel free to make the meal your own by experimenting with sides that match your tastes and dietary needs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Chicken: This can lead to dry meat. Ensure you cook just enough until it’s no longer pink.
- Skipping Marination: Don’t skip this step as it’s key for flavor integration.
- Too Much Salt: Always taste as you go—too much salt can overpower the dish.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftovers can be an amazing bonus when preparing butter chicken:
- Cool the dish completely before storing it in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- When reheating, add a splash of cream or water to ensure it remains creamy and does not dry out.
Conclusion
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe stands out for its rich flavors, quick preparation, and numerous health benefits. Savor a comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Try this recipe today, then share your feedback in the comments or subscribe for more delicious updates!
FAQs
A: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and even cook it ahead of time. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to serve.
B: Is Butter Chicken spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted according to your preference. Use less chili powder for a milder taste or omit it altogether if you prefer.
C: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it is fully thawed before marinating and cooking for better flavor and texture.
D: What can I serve with Butter Chicken besides rice and naan?
Butter chicken pairs beautifully with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or with a side of roasted vegetables for extra nutrients.
E: Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Definitely! Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and replace dairy products with coconut milk or cashew cream.
Print
Irresistible Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Savor a quick homemade butter chicken dish with easy steps delicious flavors Perfect for weeknights or special occasions 155 chars
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
A quick and easy butter chicken recipe that can be prepared in under 90 minutes, delivering rich flavors and a creamy sauce that will delight your taste buds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
Keywords: butter chicken, easy recipes, Indian cuisine, homemade meals, quick dinner
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