Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Indulge in the rich and flavorful taste of homemade butter chicken with this quick and easy recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with loved ones, this dish is sure to impress with its creamy sauce and tender chicken. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

1. Bursting with delicious flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
2. Requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Ideal for meal prepping and enjoying leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Chicken & Marinade:

• Skinless boneless chicken thighs: provide a juicy and tender texture to the dish.
• Greek yogurt: helps tenderize the chicken and adds a creamy richness to the marinade.

For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

• Tomato sauce: forms the base of the sauce and adds a rich, tangy flavor.
• Heavy cream: creates a luscious and velvety sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.

To Serve:

• Naan bread: perfect for scooping up the delicious sauce.
• Steamed rice: serves as a comforting and satisfying side dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken with salt, garlic powder, paprika, curry powder, and Greek yogurt.
2. Sear the chicken in a hot pan until golden brown.
3. In the same pan, sauté garlic and onions until fragrant.
4. Add tomato sauce, sugar, salt, pepper, heavy cream, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and curry powder.
5. Simmer the sauce until thickened, then add the cooked chicken.
6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with naan bread and steamed rice.

Helpful Tips:

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
• Substitute chicken breasts for thighs if desired.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
2. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum tenderness.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this butter chicken with fragrant basmati rice, cucumber raita, and a refreshing mango lassi for a complete Indian-inspired meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To reheat, place the dish in a microwave-safe container and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Stir well before serving to ensure even heat distribution.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use coconut milk instead of heavy cream?

• Yes, coconut milk can be substituted for a dairy-free version of this dish.

1. How spicy is this dish?

• The level of spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or less cayenne pepper to suit your taste.

1. Can I freeze butter chicken?

• Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

1. What is garam masala?

• Garam masala is a blend of ground spices commonly used in Indian cuisine, adding warmth and depth of flavor to dishes.

Conclusion:

Treat yourself to the luxurious flavors of homemade butter chicken with this simple and delicious recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is sure to become a favorite for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy the creamy goodness of this classic Indian dish!

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