Name: Healthy Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken You’ll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 500g boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons butter or ghee; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk; 2 teaspoons garam masala; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Healthy Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken You’ll Love 🍛✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting yet healthy meal, this butter chicken recipe is the perfect choice. Known for its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, this authentic Indian butter chicken version balances flavor and nutrition, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend treat. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a flavorful dish that rivals restaurant-quality without much effort.

2. Ingredients for Healthy Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

500g boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons butter or ghee
1 onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Healthy Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Preparation of Chicken

Begin by marinating. Combine the chicken pieces with Greek yogurt, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness. For a faster option, you can skip marinating, but the flavor will be more pronounced if you give it some time.

Sauté Aromatics and Cook Chicken

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, stirring well. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors. Then, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk to make the sauce rich and smooth. Let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.

Final Touches and Garnishing

Taste and adjust salt and spices if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. For an extra special touch, serve with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. Discover [more delicious dinner ideas](https://dinnerrecipesidea.com/recipes/dinner/) for your next meal.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Butter Chicken

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. To keep the sauce creamy, add a splash of water or cream during reheating. Want to elevate your meal? Try pairing it with some [creamy protein pasta bowl](https://dinnerrecipesidea.com/creamy-protein-pasta-bowl-in-15-minutes-bitetide/) or a fresh salad.

5. Serving Suggestions for Healthy Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken

Serve this butter chicken with fragrant basmati rice, fluffy naan, or even a side of roasted vegetables for a complete, nutritious meal. For a light twist, pair it with a simple green salad or roasted cauliflower. For dessert, explore easy lemon recipes like lemon brownie bars recipe to add a zesty finish to your meal.

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

This butter chicken recipe combines health-conscious ingredients with the rich flavors of traditional Indian cuisine. Using Greek yogurt instead of cream or butter in the marinade reduces calories, while still delivering tender, flavorful chicken. Time-saving and straightforward, it’s a clever way to enjoy an indulgent dish without guilt. Know more about our food philosophy and discover other quick meals.

7. Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Chicken

Is butter chicken healthy?

Yes, the recipe offers a healthier twist by using Greek yogurt and light ingredients while maintaining authentic flavors. To make it even healthier, consider substituting coconut milk or light cream.

Can I make butter chicken vegan?

Absolutely! Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas and use coconut yogurt instead of dairy-based yogurt. The spices and sauce remain wonderfully flavorful.

What can I serve with butter chicken?

Ideal accompaniments include basmati rice, naan bread, or roasted vegetables. For a quick side, visit our lunch recipes section for more ideas.

8. Conclusion

Enjoying butter chicken at home doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. This healthy quick and easy homemade butter chicken recipe combines convenience, nutrition, and authentic flavor for a dish you’ll love. Experiment with extra spices or serve with your favorite sides for a personalized touch. Dive into more quick dinner ideas and elevate your cooking game with our curated recipes and tips. Happy cooking!

Healthy Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken You’ll Love