Flavorful Homemade Butter Chicken for Quick Weeknight Dinners

© Original recipe by Flavor & Folklore ©

Flavorful Homemade Butter Chicken for Quick Weeknight Dinners 🍗🧈✨

1. Introduction

Are you craving a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish that can be whipped up in no time? Look no further than this butter chicken recipe, perfect for quick butter chicken dinners on busy weeknights. This dish combines tender pieces of chicken simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices, making it a favorite for the whole family. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this homemade butter chicken recipe will become your go-to meal prep favorite. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for dietary preferences and bonuses with easy ingredient swaps.

2. Ingredients Needed for Delicious Butter Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or heavy cream (for a richer flavor)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cup tomato passata or canned crushed tomatoes
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: lemon juice for a tangy finish

3. How to Make Quick Butter Chicken — Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken pieces with half of the Greek yogurt, salt, pepper, and a pinch of turmeric. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Sautéing Aromatics and Spices

In a large skillet or pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, stir in the garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for another minute to release their aromatic oils.

Cooking the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet, searing until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Then, pour in the tomato passata and remaining Greek yogurt or cream, stirring well to combine.

Simmering the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Finishing Touches

Finish by stirring in a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired, and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

4. Storage Tips for Meal Prep Butter Chicken

This meal prep butter chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Butter Chicken Meal

Pair this flavorful homemade butter chicken with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan bread, or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, add a side of cucumber raita or a fresh green salad. Want to elevate your cooking game? Check out these helpful baking & cooking tools that make preparing meals easier and more enjoyable.

6. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for making crispy sides or reheating leftovers with ease, quickly transforming your meal.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensure your pots and pans are non-stick and durable for smooth cooking experiences.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Ideal for grilling or air-frying side dishes that perfectly complement your butter chicken.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange — Streamline your prep work for ingredients like spice blends or rice.

7. Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Chicken

Can I make this butter chicken with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Using chicken thighs adds extra flavor and tenderness. Adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt or heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute with coconut milk or cashew cream to make the dish dairy-free. Each will lend a slightly different flavor and texture.

How long does it take to prepare homemade butter chicken?

Preparation and cooking time is approximately 30-40 minutes, making it an ideal quick butter chicken recipe for busy weeknights.

Is butter chicken suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! It stores well and can be reheated easily, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep butter chicken.

8. Tips for Perfecting Your Butter Chicken

• Use fresh spices for maximum flavor.
• Simmer the sauce gently to develop richness and depth.
• Add a splash of lemon juice or fresh cilantro for brightness.
• Pair with aromatic basmati rice or warm naan for the ultimate experience.

9. Conclusion

This flavorful homemade butter chicken recipe is your ticket to a delicious, authentic-tasting meal that can be whipped up in just about 30 minutes. Perfect for quick butter chicken weeknight dinners, it combines simple ingredients with bold spices to create a comforting dish everyone will love. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for meal prep and leftovers, making it a practical addition to your weekly dinner routine. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors!

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