Easy Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Drizzle

If you’re craving a home-cooked meal that bursts with flavor and creamy indulgence, look no further than this Easy Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Drizzle. This recipe combines tender chicken simmered in a luscious buttery tomato sauce, topped with a divine garlic-infused drizzle that elevates every bite. Perfectly balanced and quick to prepare, this dish promises a comforting experience that will soon become a dinner favorite for you and your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: Requires basic cooking steps perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Rich flavors: Combines creamy butter sauce with aromatic garlic for an unforgettable taste.
• Versatility: Works beautifully with rice, naan, or even roasted vegetables for a customizable meal.
• Family-friendly: Mild yet flavorful, perfect for picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike.
• Quick cook time: Ready in under 30 minutes without sacrificing any deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Easy Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Drizzle plays a key role, adding texture, richness, and depth. Using simple pantry staples and fresh elements ensures you’ll get that perfect balance of creamy luxury and vibrant garlic flavor in every bite.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Use boneless, skinless pieces for tenderness and quick cooking.
• Butter: The base of the sauce that creates its iconic richness and smooth texture.
• Fresh garlic: Essential for that irresistible drizzle that adds bold aroma and taste.
• Tomato puree: Adds a natural tang and richness, forming the heart of the sauce.
• Heavy cream: Delivers the luscious creaminess that makes this dish truly indulgent.
• Garam masala and spices: Bring warmth and complexity with hints of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
• Fresh cilantro: Optional, for a burst of color and freshness when serving.
• Lemon juice: A splash brightens flavors and balances the creamy sauce.

Variations for Easy Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Drizzle

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary needs or flavor preference, these variation ideas offer simple swaps and additions to tailor every meal.

• Vegetarian substitute: Swap chicken for paneer or tofu to enjoy the creamy sauce without meat.
• Spicy kick: Add red chili powder or fresh chopped chilies for those who love heat.
• Low-fat version: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream to lighten the dish without losing creaminess.
• Herb twist: Incorporate fresh basil or mint for a refreshing herbal note.
• Garlic intensity: Adjust the garlic drizzle amount for a subtle hint or bold punch of garlic flavor.

How to Make Easy Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Drizzle

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season them lightly with salt and optional spices like garam masala and turmeric to enhance flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add the chicken pieces. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, then remove and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make the buttery tomato sauce

Using the same pan, add chopped garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Pour in tomato puree and spices, letting it simmer gently to deepen the flavor and thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add cream and combine

Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, coating each piece in the velvety sauce. Let everything blend over a few minutes until rich and creamy.

Step 5: Prepare the garlic drizzle

In a small saucepan, melt extra butter and add minced garlic, cooking lightly until golden. Drizzle this fragrant garlic butter over the plated butter chicken just before serving for that special finishing touch.

Pro Tips for Making Easy Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Drizzle

• Fresh garlic matters: Use fresh garlic cloves instead of powder for a more vibrant and authentic taste.
• Butter quality: Opt for unsalted butter to control salt levels and get a purer buttery flavor.
• Simmer gently: Keep the sauce on low heat once cream is added to avoid curdling and preserve smoothness.
• Marinate chicken: If time permits, marinate chicken briefly with spices and lemon juice for deeper flavor infusion.
• Use a non-stick pan: This helps prevent the butter and sauce from burning or sticking, ensuring smooth cooking.

How to Serve Easy Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Drizzle

Garnishes

Finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro and a few whole garlic slices from the drizzle for inviting aroma and beautiful presentation.

Side Dishes

This creamy butter chicken shines when paired with steamed basmati rice, warm garlic naan, or even lightly roasted vegetables to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in a rustic skillet or decorative bowl, drizzling extra garlic butter on top tableside for that wow factor that guests love. Adding lemon wedges alongside encourages a quick squeeze for a fresh zing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any extra butter chicken quickly and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy second-day flavors deepened even more.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cooked dish in portioned containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove to retain flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat over low heat with a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency without overcooking the chicken. Avoid microwaving for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I make Easy Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Drizzle gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe naturally contains no gluten if you ensure any spices or tomato purées used are certified gluten-free, making it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for quick lunch or dinner meals throughout the week.

Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Definitely. Thighs offer more moisture and rich flavor, adding extra tenderness that works wonderfully in this creamy dish.

How do I adjust the garlic drizzle to be less strong?

Simply reduce the amount of garlic used in the butter or shorten the cooking time to mellow the flavor without losing that special drizzle touch.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to evaporate excess liquid, or stir in a small spoonful of cornstarch mixed in water for a quick thickening boost.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Creamy Butter Chicken with Garlic Drizzle is a delicious, comforting meal that’s effortless to prepare and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe delivers buttery richness, creamy smoothness, and that magical touch of garlic that makes every bite unforgettable. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

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