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 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾-inch chunks; 4 tablespoons tomato paste ((or 8 oz can of tomato sauce)); 1 tablespoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon chili powder ((or paprika, adjust to taste)); 1 teaspoon Fenugreek ((optional, I use powder)); 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup heavy cream ((sub for half & half or yogurt for low fat)); to serve hot cooked rice and naan

Introduction to Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

What is Butter Chicken and Why is it Popular?

Butter chicken, or murgh makhani, is a rich and creamy dish hailing from India that has captured hearts (and taste buds) worldwide. Traditionally made with tender chunks of chicken simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce enriched with butter and cream, it's a delightful blend of spices that create a melody of flavors. It's no wonder this dish is adored by food enthusiasts and casual diners alike!

The popularity of butter chicken can be attributed to its versatility and accessibility. It pairs beautifully with fluffy naan or basmati rice, making it a favorite for those looking to whip up a comforting meal effortlessly. Plus, the creamy texture and mildly spiced sauce appeal to a wide range of palates, even those hesitant to dive into more adventurous Indian cuisine.

With the Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken recipe, you don’t need hours in the kitchen to enjoy this dish. Instead, you'll learn to create a flavorful and authentic meal in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe has you covered. Be prepared to indulge in a delightful culinary experience that’ll keep everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Essential ingredients for a delicious Butter Chicken

Creating a tasty butter chicken in just 20 minutes is all about having the right ingredients ready to go. Here’s what you’ll need:

Oil and Butter: A tablespoon of each to start your dish right!
Onion: One medium onion, diced for that foundational flavor.
Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Use one teaspoon of minced ginger and 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to elevate the aroma.
Chicken: About 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped into ¾-inch chunks.
Tomato Paste: 4 tablespoons for a rich, flavorful base.
Spices: Garam masala, chili powder, fenugreek, cumin, salt, and black pepper for a warm, aromatic kick.
Cream: 1 cup of heavy cream to achieve that signature butteriness.

Optional ingredients for customization

Want to make this easy 20 minute butter chicken even more personal? Here are a few ideas:

Vegetables: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
Substitutes: Opt for yogurt instead of cream to lighten it up.
Heat Level: Adjust the chili powder or add some fresh green chilies if you love spice.

These options let you tailor your dish to your taste while keeping it quick and simple! For more inspiration, check out this article on Indian spices that can enhance your butter chicken experience.

Preparing Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

If you’re craving comfort food but don’t have all evening to spend in the kitchen, this easy 20 minute butter chicken recipe is your solution! Perfectly spiced and utterly delicious, it is an ideal dish for busy young professionals looking to impress friends or simply treat themselves. Let’s dive into the preparation steps!

Gather Your Kitchen Essentials

To whip up this delightful dish, you'll need a few kitchen tools and ingredients:

A large skillet or medium saucepan
Dice, mince, and measuring tools
A trusty spatula or spoon for stirring

Make sure you have all your ingredients on hand, including boneless, skinless chicken breasts, spices, onions, and heavy cream. You can buy quality spices like garam masala and cumin from reputable sources such as Amazon and your local grocery store. Once you’re stocked up, let’s get cooking!

Heat and Sauté the Base

Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan. Once melted, toss in 1 diced onion. Sauté the onions until they turn lightly golden, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Don't forget to add in 2-3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger once the onions have softened. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring continuously to avoid burning. This step builds an aromatic foundation for your easy 20 minute butter chicken.

Cook the Chicken and Spices

Next, it's time to add in 1 ½ pounds of chicken, cut into ¾-inch chunks. Sprinkle in 4 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and any optional spices like fenugreek and cumin. Cook everything for 5-6 minutes, ensuring that the chicken is thoroughly cooked. The spices will infuse the chicken with rich flavors—even kids and picky eaters will love it!

Add Cream for a Rich Sauce

Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. If you prefer a lighter version, feel free to substitute half-and-half or yogurt for the cream. Stir gently to combine and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce thickening up beautifully during this time—delicious!

Simmer and Finalize the Dish

As the dish simmers, feel free to taste and adjust your seasonings according to your palate. Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, serve your easy 20 minute butter chicken over fluffy Basmati rice or alongside warm naan for a truly satisfying meal. Don’t shy away from pairing it with colorful veggies—this creates a well-rounded dining experience!

In only 20 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to hit the dinner table. Enjoy!

Variations on Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken with Extra Vegetables
Elevate your easy 20 minute butter chicken by adding a variety of colorful vegetables. Consider incorporating bell peppers, peas, or spinach during the cooking process for a nutritious boost. Not only do they add vibrant colors and textures, but they enhance the flavors beautifully. This twist encourages you to sneak in some good-for-you greens while still keeping dinner quick and satisfying.

A Dairy-Free Version of Butter Chicken
Craving the bold flavors but avoiding dairy? No problem! Swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or an unsweetened plant-based yogurt. Both alternatives maintain the creamy texture you love, while enhancing the dish with a subtle coconut flavor. It's a delicious way to enjoy butter chicken without compromising your dietary choices. Explore more about dairy alternatives in recipes on trusted sites like Healthline.

Cooking Notes and Tips for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Tips for Preventing Overcooking the Chicken

To achieve the perfect texture in your easy 20 minute butter chicken, keep a close eye on cooking times. Cut your chicken into uniform chunks, ideally around ¾-inch, so they cook evenly. Only cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink in the center (about 5-6 minutes). Using a meat thermometer can ensure it reaches 165°F, preventing any overcooked, dry pieces. If you're cooking in batches, remove cooked chicken and set aside before adding more to the pan.

How to Adjust Spice Levels

Personalizing your spice levels is simple! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder or substitute it with paprika for smokiness without the heat. For a bolder kick, add extra chili powder or increase the amount of garam masala. Remember, you can always start small and adjust as you go. Tasting as you add is key—don’t hesitate to experiment to find your ideal blend!

Serving suggestions for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Perfect pairings with rice and naan

To bring out the best flavors in your easy 20 minute butter chicken, serve it alongside some fluffy, aromatic basmati rice. The rice will absorb the rich, creamy sauce beautifully. For a heartier option, warm up some naan bread for dipping—it's perfect for scooping up every last bit of flavor!

Ideas for garnishing your dish

Elevate your dish with simple garnishes that add both flavor and visual appeal. Chopped fresh cilantro lends a vibrant touch, while a drizzle of cream adds a luxurious finish. Don’t forget the squeeze of fresh lime for a zesty kick! These little touches make your butter chicken feel like a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

For more garnishing ideas, check out resources like Serious Eats. Enjoy your meal!

Time Breakdown for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Preparation Time

Preparing for this easy 20 minute butter chicken is a breeze! You’ll need about 10 minutes to gather and chop your ingredients. This includes dicing the onion and mincing the garlic and ginger.

Cooking Time

Once you’re prepped, the cooking process takes approximately 10 minutes. You’ll sauté the onions, cook the chicken, and let it simmer with those delicious spices and cream.

Total Time

In total, from start to finish, you'll spend just 20 minutes making this tasty dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is of the essence! Enjoy flavorful butter chicken without the fuss.

For a quick reference, check out high-quality cooking equipment options here to make your cooking experience smoother!

Nutritional Information for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken contains approximately 491 calories. This makes it a satisfying, flavorful choice without compromising your daily calorie goals.

Macronutrient Breakdown

Protein: 39g
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Sugars: 3g
Fiber: 2g

This nutritional profile indicates a high-protein meal that keeps you feeling full, thanks to heart-healthy fats. If you're customizing your dish, consider substituting heavy cream with lower-fat options like half & half or yogurt to reduce calorie content even further. For more tips on balancing your macros, check out Healthline.

FAQs about Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using frozen chicken is a great option for your easy 20 minute butter chicken. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cutting it into chunks for even cooking. You might need to extend the cooking time slightly, depending on how frozen it was, so keep an eye on it until it’s cooked through.

What should I serve with Butter Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with hot cooked rice, particularly Basmati, or you can opt for warm naan to soak up that delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables on the side for extra color and nutrition.

Are there any meal prep tips for Butter Chicken?

Prep your ingredients in advance to make this process even quicker! Chop the onions, garlic, and ginger ahead of time, and store them in the fridge. You can also marinate the chicken with your spices the night before for deeper flavor. Preparing a batch in advance allows you to enjoy this tasty dish any night of the week!

For more delicious meal ideas, check out Gimme Delicious and explore their collection of quick recipes!

Conclusion on Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

In just 20 minutes, this easy butter chicken recipe brings a rich symphony of flavors to your table. Perfectly tender chicken enveloped in a creamy, spiced sauce can transform any weeknight dinner into a feast. Serve it over rice or with naan for an unforgettable meal that impresses every time!