Hawaiian Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner Recipe

Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, the Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe brings Indian restaurant magic right into your own kitchen—without any fuss! This dish combines tender chicken, bold spices, and a silky tomato-cream sauce, all with minimal prep and maximum comfort. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned fan, this vibrant crowd-pleaser is guaranteed to land in your family’s weeknight dinner rotation.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every bite of this butter chicken is the perfect testament to how simple pantry staples transform into something spectacular. These carefully chosen ingredients each play a crucial role, highlighting vibrant spices and lush textures for the ultimate cozy meal.

• Chicken thighs: Preferred for their juiciness and tender texture, they soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Plain Greek yogurt: Acts as the marinade base, keeping the chicken extra moist while adding subtle tang.
• Lemon juice: Brightens up the marinade, helping the flavors penetrate more deeply into the chicken.
• Garam masala: This essential Indian spice blend brings layers of warmth and richness to both the marinade and sauce.
• Ground cumin: Delivers earthy undertones and a signature aroma.
• Ground coriander: Adds subtle citrusy notes that lift the whole dish.
• Turmeric: Provides gorgeous golden color and a gentle, grounding flavor.
• Chili powder: Offers a gentle kick of heat—adjust to taste for your spice preferences!
• Salt and pepper: Because seasoning every step makes all the difference.
• Butter: A generous amount builds a luxurious, silky sauce, true to the dish’s name.
• Yellow onion: Caramelizes for a natural sweetness and foundation for the sauce.
• Garlic and ginger: Freshly grated for depth, zing, and an aromatic kitchen.
• Tomato puree: Creates the backbone of the sauce, delivering acidity and color.
• Heavy cream: Swirled in at the end for silky, indulgent texture and a mellow finish.
• Fresh cilantro: The vibrant green garnish you never want to skip.

How to Make Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by combining the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss in the chicken thigh pieces, ensuring everything is coated in that spectacularly fragrant marinade. Even just 30 minutes is enough for flavor, but if you have more time, a few hours (or overnight in the fridge) makes the chicken even more irresistible.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Drizzle a large skillet or Dutch oven with a touch of oil, then heat over medium-high. Add the marinated chicken, letting it brown for a few minutes on each side. You don’t need to cook it through just yet—just enough to lock in the juices and pick up flavorful caramelization that infuses the sauce later on.

Step 3: Build That Flavorful Sauce

Remove the chicken and set aside for a moment. Melt the butter in the same pan, scraping up those golden bits! Toss in finely chopped onion, cooking until it turns soft and deeply golden. Stir in the garlic and ginger, filling the kitchen with their amazing aroma. Add garam masala, cumin, and coriander for a quick toast, coaxing out even more warmth and depth.

Step 4: Simmer with Tomato Puree

Pour in the tomato puree, then bring everything to a gentle simmer. This is where the sauce thickens and flavors unite into that signature Butter Chicken magic. Let it bubble until slightly reduced and glossy—around 10 minutes is perfect.

Step 5: Bring It All Together with Cream

Return the seared chicken (with all its juices) to the pan, nestling each piece into the luscious sauce. Simmer together until the chicken is completely cooked through and tender, about 10 more minutes. To finish, swirl in the heavy cream—watch as the sauce turns instantly rich, creamy, and restaurant-worthy! Taste and adjust salt, then shower with fresh cilantro right before serving.

How to Serve Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of simple garnishes! A generous sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro provides a burst of color and freshness. For a pop of creamy contrast, a swirl of extra heavy cream or a pat of butter right before serving is always welcome. Toasted sliced almonds or a wedge of lemon make lovely finishing touches as well.

Side Dishes

This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe begs for something to soak up every drop of luscious sauce. Pillow-soft naan or warm basmati rice are classics. Cucumber raita offers a cool, tangy side, and lightly sautéed green beans or peas add color and crunch without stealing the show.

Creative Ways to Present

Sometimes it’s fun to think outside the bowl! Tuck spoonfuls of butter chicken into soft wraps or pita for on-the-go lunches. Make mini “naan pizzas” topped with leftover chicken and sauce, bubbling under the broiler. Or try serving as a party dip with naan chips for a crowd-pleasing appetizer twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover butter chicken stays beautifully flavorful in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Transfer to an airtight container so it remains fresh and saucy, and give it a gentle stir before reheating.

Freezing

Butter chicken freezes like a dream. Let the dish cool completely, then stash in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before warming—it’s a bonus that the flavors only get better with time!

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally so everything heats evenly and stays creamy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works well if you prefer a leaner protein—just be careful not to overcook, as it can dry out more quickly than thighs.

Is the Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe very spicy?

Not at all; this version is delightfully balanced. You’re always welcome to amp up or dial back the chili powder to suit your personal spice tolerance.

Can I make this dish dairy free?

Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, and use dairy-free yogurt in the marinade. You’ll still get that creamy texture with a subtle coconut twist.

What’s the best way to marinate the chicken for maximum flavor?

For optimal results, marinate the chicken pieces for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge. A longer soak lets the yogurt and spices really work their magic!

What’s the difference between butter chicken and chicken tikka masala?

Butter chicken is creamier and milder, with a butter-rich tomato sauce, while chicken tikka masala usually has a smokier flavor and more pronounced spices. Both are delicious; this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe is the ultimate comfort version!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving big, cozy flavors with minimal effort, don’t hesitate—gather your pantry staples and turn dinnertime into an event with this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe. I promise, one spoonful of that luscious sauce and tender chicken will win everyone over. Let me know how your batch turns out, and welcome to your new go-to comfort food!

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