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Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Irresistibly Easy Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken recipe transforms your dinner into a cozy feast with rich flavors and minimal fuss.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marination Time 15 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lbs Chicken Thighs Juicy choice; chicken breasts can be used for a healthier option.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust based on taste preferences.
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt Coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative.
For the Sauce
  • 4 tbsp Butter Ghee can be substituted for a traditional flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Powder Use fresh garlic if desired.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots can work as a substitute.
  • 1 cup Tomato Sauce Crushed tomatoes provide added texture.
  • 1 tsp Sugar Can be swapped for honey or omitted.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adjust according to your spice preference.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
For the Spices
  • 2 cloves Garlic Cloves Can be substituted with garlic powder.
  • 1 tbsp Sweet Paprika Smoked paprika offers a different taste.
  • 1 tbsp Curry Powder Adjust for your heat preference.
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper Optional for a spicy kick; reduce or omit for mild.
  • 1 tsp Garam Masala Can be homemade.
For the Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Cilantro can be an excellent substitute.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • measuring spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Combine chicken thighs with salt, garlic powder, sweet paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt in a bowl. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Lower the heat and add butter to the same skillet. Sauté minced garlic and diced onion until the onions turn translucent and fragrant.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce and sugar; let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and mix thoroughly.
  5. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, season with cayenne pepper, garam masala, curry powder, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes rich.
  6. Stir in the remaining butter until melted to achieve a silky finish. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, adding a pop of color.
  7. Enjoy hot, paired with warm naan and fluffy rice, for a complete meal experience.

Notes

For extra flavor, serve with a sprinkle of additional garam masala!