Name: Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely minced or grated (or use paste); 2-3 cloves garlic, finely minced or crushed; 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾-inch chunks (about 2-3 breasts); 4 tablespoons tomato paste (or 8 oz can of tomato sauce)

Introduction to Easy Butter Chicken

If you're a busy young professional, finding time to prepare a satisfying meal can often feel impossible. Enter easy butter chicken—a delicious dish that brings comfort food to your dinner table without a hefty time commitment. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, mouth-watering sauce paired with succulent chicken, making it perfect for those who juggle work, social events, and self-care.

Why is butter chicken such a fantastic choice for the fast-paced lifestyle? For starters, it uses minimal ingredients that are mostly pantry staples. You can often make it on a whim without needing to plan out a major grocery run. Plus, the blend of spices offers a delightful taste that’s sure to impress—not just yourself, but also guests who may come over.

Cooking can also be a wonderful way to wind down after a long day. Preparing this quick dish allows you to engage your senses, from the sizzling sound of onions in oil to the aromatic scents of ginger and garlic wafting through your kitchen. Whether paired with fluffy Basmati rice or warm naan, easy butter chicken is a dish that brings joy and flavor to your busy weeknight meals.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!

Essential Ingredients for Butter Chicken

Creating an easy butter chicken at home is simple with the right ingredients! Here’s what you'll need for a delicious and flavorful dish:

Oil: 1 tablespoon for sautéing.
Butter: 1 tablespoon adds a rich creaminess.
Onion: 1 medium, diced; this forms the flavorful base.
Fresh Ginger: 1 teaspoon, finely minced or in paste form adds a warm spice.
Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced or crushed for that aromatic kick.
Chicken: Approximately 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾-inch chunks for tender bites.
Tomato Paste: 4 tablespoons or an 8 oz can of tomato sauce for a rich sauce base.

For a full shopping experience, check out Walmart for affordable ingredients, including the essential tomato products you'll be using.

Optional Ingredients for Customization

Feel free to customize your easy butter chicken with a few optional ingredients to suit your taste:

Cream: Heavy cream (or coconut milk for a lighter version) makes it incredibly rich.
Spices: Add garam masala or turmeric for deeper flavors.
Vegetables: Including bell peppers or peas can enhance nutrition and color.
Fresh cilantro: For garnishing and an extra burst of freshness.

These optional ingredients can elevate your dish in seconds. Try pairing your butter chicken with some fragrant Basmati rice or warm naan for a complete meal!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Easy Butter Chicken

Making easy butter chicken at home is more achievable than you might think! With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you'll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s dive into each step, ensuring you follow along easily.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s important to have everything on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium onion, diced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely minced (or ginger paste)
2-3 cloves garlic, finely minced or crushed
About 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾-inch chunks
4 tablespoons tomato paste (or 8 oz can of tomato sauce)

Having your ingredients prepped and ready to go will make this process smoother and quicker, so take a few minutes to do this first. This is also a great time to pull out your favorite spatula and pan!

Heat the Skillet with Oil and Butter

In a large skillet or medium saucepan, heat it over medium-high heat. Add the oil and butter, allowing them to melt together. This combination not only enhances the flavor of your easy butter chicken but also ensures a lovely golden color on the onions.

Cook the Onions, Ginger, and Garlic

Once the oil and butter are hot, toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns a light golden. Now, add in the ginger and garlic, stirring for another 30 seconds. It’s crucial to keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as burnt garlic and ginger can spoil the dish's flavor!

Add Chicken and Tomato Products

Now that your aromatics are fragrant, it’s time to add your chicken chunks and the tomato paste. Stir everything together, allowing the chicken to cook fully—about 5-6 minutes. If you want your dish to be a bit spicier, you might consider adding a pinch of red chili powder or your favorite spices here.

Incorporate Heavy Cream and Simmer

The fun part! After the chicken is fully cooked, it's time to pour in the heavy cream. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes. This step allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together beautifully. You’ll start to notice the creamy texture coming together, which is essential for that luscious butter chicken experience!

Serve and Enjoy!

Your easy butter chicken is now ready to shine! Serve it over a bed of fluffy Basmati rice or alongside warm naan—both are perfect to soak up that rich sauce.

Remember, cooking should be enjoyable, so don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to your liking. This meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests on the weekend. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and happy cooking!

Variations on Easy Butter Chicken

Butter chicken is a versatile dish that can be tweaked to meet various dietary needs and flavor preferences. Here are some delightful variations to try!

Keto-Friendly Butter Chicken

For a keto-friendly twist, swap out the heavy cream with coconut cream and serve it over cauliflower rice instead of traditional basmati rice. This adaptation lowers the carb count while keeping all the rich, buttery flavors intact.

Vegetarian Adaptation

Want to go meatless? Substitute the chicken with paneer or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly for any new ingredients used.

Spicy Butter Chicken Version

If you like a little kick, add more heat by incorporating diced green chilies or a spoonful of cayenne pepper. Serve it with a side of spicy pickles for an explosion of flavor!

These variations help maintain the essence of easy butter chicken while catering to different tastes!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Butter Chicken

Ingredient Swaps for Flavor Enhancement

To elevate your easy butter chicken, consider swapping out some ingredients for enhanced flavors. For instance, try using coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a hint of sweetness and creaminess. You can also replace fresh ginger with powdered ginger in a pinch, though fresh will always have a more vibrant taste. Additionally, add a splash of lemon juice for a tangy kick or sprinkle in some garam masala for an extra layer of depth.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

If you find yourself with any delicious leftovers (which is unlikely, but still!), store your easy butter chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last up to four days—just gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave. You can even freeze it! Just make sure to cool it completely, portion it out, and enjoy it within three months for the best taste. This way, you can indulge in a quick and delightful meal even on your busiest days!

Serving Suggestions for Easy Butter Chicken

What to Serve with Butter Chicken

When enjoying your easy butter chicken, pairing is key to elevating the dish. Here are some popular options:

Basmati Rice: The classic choice, absorbs the flavorful sauce perfectly.
Naan Bread: Ideal for scooping up the chicken and sauce—handy and delicious!
Vegetable Sides: A light cucumber salad or roasted veggies balance out the richness.

Creative Serving Ideas

For an inviting presentation, think beyond the standard. Consider serving your easy butter chicken in small bowls with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top. You might also explore a fusion twist, such as creating butter chicken wraps with flatbreads or even using it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers.

These simple adjustments can transform a familiar dish into a delightful culinary experience!

Time Breakdown for Easy Butter Chicken

Preparation Time

Getting ready for this delicious easy butter chicken takes just about 10 minutes. This includes chopping the onions and garlic, measuring out your spices, and cutting the chicken.

Cooking Time

The actual cooking process? Only about 20 minutes! With everything coming together swiftly, you'll be savoring every bite in no time.

Total Time

In total, you’ll be looking at a super-efficient 30 minutes from kitchen prep to serving your dish. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting but don’t have hours to spare!

Nutritional Facts for Easy Butter Chicken

Calories Per Serving

Each serving of this easy butter chicken contains approximately 491 calories. This makes it a filling option for a busy evening, providing the energy you need without overwhelming your daily intake.

Macronutrient Breakdown

Protein: 39g
Fat: 33g (with 17g being saturated fat)
Carbohydrates: 9g

This balanced profile ensures you're getting a hearty mix of nutrients while enjoying a flavorful dish. The high protein content comes mainly from the chicken, making it an excellent option for those looking to fuel up after a workout. For more insight on macronutrients, check out Healthline.

FAQ about Easy Butter Chicken

Can I Make Easy Butter Chicken Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare easy butter chicken a day in advance. Simply cool it completely after cooking, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to enjoy it, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to adjust the consistency if needed.

What Should I Do if the Sauce is Too Thick?

If your easy butter chicken sauce turns out thicker than you'd like, don’t fret! Just stir in a little bit of water or more heavy cream, depending on your preference. This will help loosen the sauce while still keeping that creamy texture you love.

How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?

To customize the spice level in your easy butter chicken, you can simply tweak the amount of spices you use. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili powder or add a dollop of yogurt to cool it down. Conversely, if you want it spicier, feel free to add extra chili powder or some crushed red pepper flakes!

Conclusion on Easy Butter Chicken

In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a vibrant dish of easy butter chicken that promises comfort and flavor. This recipe not only saves time but also impresses anyone at your dinner table. Remember, it's all about the balance of spices! Enjoy it with rice or naan for a complete meal.