Flavorful Homemade Butter Chicken for Quick Weeknight Dinners

© Original Recipe By Whisk & Wander ©

Flavorful Homemade Butter Chicken for Quick Weeknight Dinners 🍗✨🔥

1. Introduction

Butter chicken, also known as *murgh makhani*, is a traditional Indian dish renowned for its rich, creamy tomato-based sauce and tender, flavorful chicken. Perfect for weeknights, this *quick butter chicken* recipe delivers authentic taste in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy families or anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this *flavorful butter chicken* recipe is guaranteed to impress and fulfill your craving for comfort food.

2. Ingredients for Homemade Butter Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Auto-Ready Butter Chicken

Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a large skillet or wok, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Make the Sauce

Add crushed tomatoes to the pan, stirring to combine. Mix in garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

Finish with Cream

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring well to coat all pieces in the flavorful sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve hot over steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread. Enjoy your *homemade butter chicken* that is both flavorful and quick to prepare!

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Butter Chicken

Leftover *butter chicken* can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat or use the microwave. For best results, add a splash of water or cream to retain its creamy texture.

5. Serving Suggestions

This *quick butter chicken* pairs beautifully with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan, or even alongside roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal. Consider serving with a side of creamy spinach and mushroom pasta for a versatile dinner combo. For an extra protein boost or vegetarian variation, try adding roasted chickpeas or paneer.

6. Benefits of Making Homemade Butter Chicken

Creating your own *homemade butter chicken* at home allows you to control ingredients, eliminate preservatives, and customize the spice level to suit your taste. It also offers a fun cooking experience and a chance to explore Indian flavors in your own kitchen.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I substitute chicken with tofu or vegetables?

Yes, for a vegetarian version, swap chicken with tofu, paneer, or hearty vegetables like cauliflower or bell peppers. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.

How long does it take to make butter chicken from scratch?

This quick butter chicken recipe takes approximately 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner solution.

Can I freeze leftover butter chicken?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version or use Greek yogurt to add tanginess while maintaining creaminess.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Enhance your cooking experience with essential tools that make preparing *flavorful butter chicken* effortless. Check out these recommended items:

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for quickly cooking tender chicken and vegetables with ease, saving time and energy.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Provides durable, non-stick pots and pans that make sautéing and simmering mess-free.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Works well for grilling chicken with those perfect sear marks or air frying vegetables for added flavor.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange — Ideal for preparing sauces, marinades, or even kneading naan dough from scratch.

9. Conclusion

With this *flavorful homemade butter chicken* recipe, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality Indian dish right at home in under 30 minutes. The rich, creamy sauce paired with tender chicken makes it a perfect choice for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions. So why not gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and indulge in the aromatic, comforting flavors of authentic butter chicken? Don’t forget to explore accompanying side dishes like creamy pasta or crispy naan to complete your meal. Happy cooking!

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