Homemade butter chicken is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce that’s so rich it could make a Michelin chef weep. yogurt marinated chicken The aroma wafting from your kitchen will have everyone asking if they can take up residence in your living room just to be close to the heavenly smell.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I make homemade butter chicken without cream?
- What is the best way to serve homemade butter chicken?
- How can I make it spicier?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just for special occasions; it’s perfect for cozy weeknights or when you need to impress guests (or simply distract them from your questionable dance moves). The promise of flavors bursting in your mouth will have you dreaming about this meal long after the last bite. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Homemade butter chicken is incredibly easy to prepare and offers a delightful explosion of flavors
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- It pairs beautifully with naan or rice, making it versatile for any occasion
- Plus, leftovers (if there are any) taste even better the next day!
My family couldn’t stop raving about how delicious this homemade butter chicken turned out, especially my uncle who claimed he had no idea I could cook! cheesy chicken wraps. garlic parmesan chicken pasta.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for around 3-4 chicken breasts, adjusting based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Use firm, fresh cloves for that aromatic kick that will send your taste buds dancing.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zesty warmth; make sure it’s peeled and minced finely for the best flavor.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness once cooked—be sure to chop it finely so it blends seamlessly.
Canned Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes for a velvety sauce base; they’re essential for that rich flavor.
Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce luxurious; feel free to substitute with coconut milk if you’re feeling adventurous.
Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala): These spices create the signature aroma; don’t skimp on them!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.
Butter: A generous dollop of butter enriches the sauce, giving it that silky texture.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. flavorful chicken bowl Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and coriander to ensure every morsel is flavorful.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large pan over medium heat, melt some butter. Add chopped onions and sauté until they’re translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do it.
Add Ginger and Spices: Toss in minced ginger along with garam masala. Cook for another minute until the spices release their delightful aromas.
Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in canned tomatoes and stir well. Allow this mixture to simmer for 10 minutes so flavors meld together beautifully.
Add Chicken and Cream: Place your seasoned chicken pieces into the pan. After cooking them for about 15-20 minutes until tender, stir in heavy cream for that indulgent finish.
Serve and Garnish: Serve hot over fluffy rice or with warm naan. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired—because fancy touches make everything better!
Now you’ve created a dish worthy of any feast! Enjoy each bite of this homemade butter chicken as you bask in the compliments from family and friends! For more inspiration, check out this Savory Mexican Birria Tacos recipe.
You Must Know
- Homemade butter chicken is not just a meal; it’s an aromatic adventure
- The creamy sauce and tender chicken will have your taste buds singing
- Plus, it’s a fantastic dish for impressing guests or comforting yourself on a chilly night
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken overnight for maximum flavor, then cook the spices before adding the tomatoes and cream to achieve a rich sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for paneer or tofu for a vegetarian option, or add extra spices like cardamom for more depth.
Storing & Reheating
Store your homemade butter chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve its creamy goodness. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Marsala recipe.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender chicken, ensure you use boneless thigh meat
- The marination process is key to flavor enhancement
- Don’t rush the simmering; it allows flavors to develop beautifully
Sometimes I find myself daydreaming about that time my friends devoured two pots of this butter chicken at my housewarming party; they still talk about it!
FAQ
Can I make homemade butter chicken without cream?
Yes, you can use coconut milk or cashew cream as alternatives for a lighter version.
What is the best way to serve homemade butter chicken?
Serve it hot with basmati rice or naan bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.
How can I make it spicier?
Add more chili powder or fresh green chilies during cooking for extra heat!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Homemade Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Homemade Butter Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce infused with aromatic spices. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for cozy weeknights or impressing guests without breaking a sweat. Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside warm naan for a complete meal that will leave everyone raving!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, peeled and minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk)
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 2 tsp garam masala
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces; season with salt, pepper, cumin, and coriander.
- Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat; add onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in garlic and ginger; cook for another minute.
- Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Incorporate seasoned chicken; cook until tender (15-20 minutes).
- Pour in heavy cream and stir until well combined.
- Serve hot over rice or naan, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
