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Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Name: Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Cooked rice or naan for serving

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Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is a truly delightful dish that brings the flavors of Indian cuisine right into your home kitchen. With its creamy texture, aromatic spices, and tender chicken, butter chicken has become a favorite for many. This easy version simplifies the cooking process while maintaining the classic taste, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Whether you pair it with fluffy naan or steamed rice, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 450
Protein: 26g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg

Why Make This Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

There are countless reasons to try this Easy Homemade Butter Chicken. First, it’s a one-pan dish that not only simplifies cleanup but also allows flavors to meld beautifully. The combination of fresh ingredients like garlic, ginger, and warm spices creates a fragrant and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. Moreover, it’s a versatile dish; you can easily adjust the spice levels to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for a large family or having a quiet dinner at home, this recipe ensures a delicious meal that’s full of warmth and comfort.

How to Make Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

## Ingredients:

500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons garam masala
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Cooked rice or naan for serving

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. This will be the base for your delicious sauce.

Step 2: Mixing

Add the chopped onions to the skillet and cook until they become translucent, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes. This step enriches the flavor and provides a sweet base for the dish.

Step 3: Cooking

Stir in the minced garlic and ginger. Cook until fragrant, about another minute. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Next, mix in the crushed tomatoes, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the spices to infuse into the chicken.

Step 4: Finishing

Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is fully cooked. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Serve your Easy Homemade Butter Chicken piping hot, alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan. For added flavor, consider squeezing a little fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving. This dish also pairs well with a fresh cucumber salad or raita to balance the spices.

How to Store Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to keep it creamy. You can also freeze the butter chicken for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat thoroughly.

Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Spice Adjustments: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of garam masala and paprika. Conversely, if you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Chicken Alternatives: Feel free to use thigh meat for an even juicier outcome, or substitute with paneer for a vegetarian option.
Creamy Consistency: Adjust the cream to your preference for richness. You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter dairy-free version.
Garnishing: For additional flavor, try adding toasted cashews or almonds on top just before serving.

Delicious Variations

Butter Chicken Wrap: Use the butter chicken filling with flatbreads or tortillas for a quick and delicious wrap.
Butter Chickpeas: For a plant-based alternative, replace chicken with chickpeas, making for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Curry Casserole: Layer your butter chicken in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake for a comforting casserole style dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Butter Chicken without cream? Yes, you can use yogurt or coconut milk as a substitute for cream. Just ensure you add it at the lowest heat setting to prevent curdling.
What can I serve with Butter Chicken? Butter chicken typically pairs well with rice or naan. You can also serve it with various Indian sides like samosas or a salad.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, but thaw the chicken completely before cooking. Frozen chicken might release water, affecting the sauce’s consistency, so thawing helps achieve the desired rich taste.
How do I know when chicken is cooked? The chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
Is Butter Chicken spicy? It can be mildly spicy depending on how much garam masala and paprika you choose to use. Adjust these spices to your liking.

Conclusion

This Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is not just a recipe, but a warm embrace on a plate. By following these straightforward steps, you will create a dish that bursts with flavor while being effortless to prepare. So gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and enjoy a meal that speaks of comfort and coziness. Happy cooking!