Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken: A Delicious Fall Dinner Dish 🥘🧈🔥
1. Introduction
Looking for a quick and easy butter chicken recipe that delivers rich, creamy flavors without spending hours in the kitchen? This easy butter chicken dish is perfect for busy weeknights and cozy September dinner ideas. Combining tender chicken in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with aromatic spices, this easy butter chicken simple recipe creates a tasty meal that everyone will love. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with rice and vegetables, making it an easy dinner idea for families and friends alike.
2. Ingredients for the Best Homemade 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 ginger, grated
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free version
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Cooked rice and vegetables to serve with the butter chicken
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Easy Butter Chicken
Preparation of Chicken and Spices
Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the garam masala. Set aside. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or ghee over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Creating the Flavorful Sauce
In the same skillet, add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Stir in the remaining spices—turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and the rest of the garam masala. Cook for another minute to release their aroma.
Combining and Simmering
Add the tomato sauce to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the spices and onions. Let this simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until smooth. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until everything is heated through and creamy.
Final Touches and Serving
Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve this easy butter chicken hot over rice, paired with steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. For an added twist, check out our recipe for chicken and broccoli pasta or smothered chicken and rice as excellent sides and variations.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Butter Chicken
Leftover easy butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal later. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Make sure to label and date your leftovers for best quality. To keep the flavors fresh, reheat with a splash of cream or water, stirring until heated through.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Butter Chicken Meal
This quick butter chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, like basmati or jasmine, and a side of sautéed vegetables or naan bread. For a nutritious twist, add some steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. If you’re looking for a hassle-free kitchen gadget, try the Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker to prepare refreshing drinks to complement your meal or explore our [full kitchen range](https://recipeswonders.com/category/dinner/) for more ideas.
6. Why This Easy Butter Chicken Recipe Stands Out
This easy butter chicken simple recipe is designed for busy cooks who crave delicious meals without the hassle. Its rich, creamy, and flavorful profile makes it a go-to choice for chicken dinner lovers. Plus, it’s versatile—perfect for fall dinners or September dinner ideas—offering a comforting, Yummy meal that everyone will enjoy.
7. FAQs About Quick & Easy Butter Chicken
Can I prepare butter chicken ahead of time?
Yes, this easy butter chicken dish can be made a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or microwave. Flavor often improves as it sits, making it even tastier the next day.
What’s the best way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Simply replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative. The spices will still create a flavorful, easy butter chicken tasty meal suitable for those with dairy sensitivities.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas can enhance nutrition and flavor. For example, check out how to incorporate broccoli in our chicken and broccoli pasta.
8. Final Tips and Recommendations
For the best results, use fresh spices and quality ingredients. If you want to elevate your cooking experience, equipment like the CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set can make the process smoother. To add a smoky flavor, consider using a grill or smoker like the Ninja FlexFlame Outdoor Grill & Smoker.
9. Conclusion
This quick and easy butter chicken recipe offers a perfect blend of convenience and flavor, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or cozy fall dinners. Whether served with rice, vegetables, or naan, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for a yummy meal that feels like a special treat. Get creative, try new sides, and enjoy a delicious, easy butter chicken simple meal anytime you desire comforting, warm flavors. For more innovative dinner ideas, explore cookware tools like the Cuisinart Bread Maker or King Arthur Baking Cookbooks to inspire your culinary adventures.
Print
Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Dairy options: Dairy-Free
Description
Discover the deliciously creamy and flavorful Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken, perfect for busy weeknights and comforting fall dinners. This simple recipe combines tender chicken in a rich tomato-based sauce with aromatic spices, offering a hassle-free way to enjoy a classic Indian-inspired dish that pairs beautifully with rice and vegetables.
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 ginger, grated
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the garam masala. Set aside.
- Melt butter or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger to the same skillet. Sauté until onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in remaining spices—turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and the rest of the garam masala. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add tomato sauce, stirring well. Simmer for 10 minutes to meld flavors and thicken sauce.
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in heavy cream or coconut milk and stir to combine. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until heated through and creamy.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice with vegetables or naan.
Notes
- You can prepare the butter chicken a day ahead and reheat gently for enhanced flavor.
- Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
