Name: Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons butter or ghee; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon cumin powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Cooked rice and vegetables for serving

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Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken: A Flavorful and Cozy Dinner Recipe 🍗🍛✨

1. Introduction

Are you craving a **delicious**, **easy butter chicken dish** that can be prepared quickly without sacrificing flavor? Look no further! This **quick and easy butter chicken** recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting, tasty meal. Combining rich spices, tender chicken, and a creamy tomato sauce, this **easy butter chicken simple** dish is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it pairs well with rice and vegetables, making it an ideal option for **easy dinner ideas**. Let’s dive into how to create this **yummy meal** that you can whip up in under 30 minutes!

2. Ingredients for Quick & Easy Butter Chicken

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons butter or ghee
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Cooked rice and vegetables for serving

3. Step-by-step Instructions for Making the Best Easy Butter Chicken

3.1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Heat a large skillet or a non-stick pan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of butter, and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3.2. Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan, add the remaining butter and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the aromatic base for your **easy butter chicken dish**.

3.3. Add Spices & Tomatoes

Stir in garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and paprika. Cook the spices for about 30 seconds to release their flavors. Pour in the tomato sauce, stirring well to combine everything. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to thicken slightly.

3.4. Incorporate the Cream & Chicken

Add the cooked chicken back into the pan, then pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Stir thoroughly and simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the sauce is creamy and heated through. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

3.5. Garnish & Serve

Garnish your **easy butter chicken** with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve hot with fluffy rice and steamed vegetables for a complete **butter chicken with rice and vegetables** experience. For a more wholesome meal, consider [adding some healthy sides](https://dinnerrecipesidea.com/healthy-vegan-lemon-lentil-soup-with-turmeric-youll-love/).

4. Storage Tips & Leftover Ideas

This **easy butter chicken** keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce thickens. Leftovers make for a perfect **September dinner idea** for busy nights or to prepare ahead for cozy **fall recipes dinner**.

5. Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Enhance your **butter chicken with rice and vegetables** by serving with basmati rice, naan bread, or sautéed greens. For an added flavor boost, sprinkle extra cilantro or a squeeze of fresh lemon. If you want to elevate your meal, try pairing it with a [refreshing mocktail](https://dinnerrecipesidea.com/healthy-sweet-chili-chicken-chinese-cooking-recipes-chicken-dishes-recipes-healthy-recip-youll-love/) or a cold beverage.

6. Why Choose This Quick & Easy Butter Chicken Recipe?

This **recipe for quick and easy butter chicken** is perfect because it combines minimal prep time with maximum flavor. It’s an ideal choice for **easy dinner ideas** if you’re short on time but crave a **delicious**, comforting meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this **easy butter chicken dish** is sure to impress.

7. FAQs About Quick & Easy Butter Chicken

Can I make this butter chicken recipe dairy-free? Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or dairy-free cream options for a delicious dairy-free version.
How can I make this dish spicier? Add more chili powder or fresh chopped chilies to taste to increase the heat level.
What’s the best way to reheat butter chicken? Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream for a creamy reheat.
Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

8. Additional Tips for the Perfect Easy Butter Chicken

For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken in spices and yogurt (or lemon juice) for 30 minutes before cooking. To save time, consider using pre-cut chicken or store-bought spice blends. Don’t forget to check out high-quality cookware like [CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set](https://amzn.to/4kL0N5h) for easy cooking and cleanup.

9. Conclusion

This **quick & easy homemade butter chicken** recipe exemplifies how simple ingredients and minimal effort can produce an incredibly **tasty** and satisfying meal. Whether you’re searching for **easy fall recipes dinner** or **September dinner ideas**, this dish checks all the boxes for comfort and flavor. Enjoy your flavorful creation with rice and vegetables, and don’t forget – great meals are just a few steps away with this **easy butter chicken** guide. Happy cooking!

Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken