Name: Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 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); 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 (I use powder, but seeds can be used too, optional); 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup heavy cream (sub for half & half or yogurt for low fat); Hot cooked rice and naan (for serving)

Introduction to Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

If you're looking for a dish that combines flavor, comfort, and quick preparation, look no further than butter chicken. This easy 20 minute butter chicken recipe stands out as a favorite among home cooks for many reasons. Not only is it packed with flavor from fragrant spices and creamy goodness, but it's also uncomplicated enough for even those new to cooking.

Butter chicken, known for its rich sauce and tender chicken, is a household staple in many Indian homes. It's no surprise that this dish has made a triumphant entry into the hearts (and stomachs) of food lovers worldwide. The balance of spices offers a delightful experience that can transform a simple weeknight dinner into something special.

Another reason home cooks adore this recipe is its versatility. Pair it with hot, fluffy naan or fragrant basmati rice, and you have a satisfying meal that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. To make things even easier, this dish can be made all in one pan, cutting down on cleanup time and allowing you to focus on what matters: enjoying your meal.

If you’re curious about the background of butter chicken, this article offers fantastic insights into its origins and variations. Let’s dive into making your own delicious version that you can whip up in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

When you're craving a comforting dish that you can whip up in just 20 minutes, easy 20 minute butter chicken has your back. The ingredients are straightforward, yet they come together to create a surprisingly rich and satisfying meal.

Essential Components

Oil & Butter: Start with 1 tablespoon each of oil and butter to give your base a luxurious flavor.
Onion & Aromatics: You'll need 1 medium diced onion, a teaspoon of fresh ginger (grated or minced), and 2-3 cloves of finely minced garlic to build that aromatic foundation.
Chicken: Use about 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾-inch chunks for quick cooking.
Sauce Ingredients: For the sauce, have 4 tablespoons of tomato paste (or an 8 oz can of tomato sauce ready), along with spices like 1 tablespoon of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and optional fenugreek.

Creaminess and Seasoning

Cream: A cup of heavy cream adds the needed richness, but you can swap it with half & half or yogurt for a lighter option.
Seasonings: Don’t forget 1 teaspoon of cumin, a teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of black pepper for seasoning.

Pair this delightful dish with hot cooked rice or naan for the ultimate experience! For more tips on getting your spices just right, check out this spice guide.

Step-by-step Preparation of Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Cooking a delicious meal doesn’t always mean spending hours in the kitchen, and this easy 20 minute butter chicken recipe is a testament to that! Follow these simple steps to whip up a flavor-packed dinner that will impress your friends and family.

Gather and Prepare the Ingredients

Before diving into cooking, gathering all your ingredients makes the process smooth and hassle-free. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium diced onion
1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced or grated, or use ginger paste)
2-3 cloves garlic (minced or crushed)
1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into ¾-inch chunks)
4 tablespoons tomato paste or an 8 oz can of tomato sauce
A mix of spices: 1 tablespoon garam masala, 1 teaspoon chili powder or paprika, 1 teaspoon fenugreek (optional), 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup heavy cream (sub with half & half or yogurt for a lower-fat option)
Hot cooked rice and/or naan for serving

Put on your apron, and let's cook!

Sauté Onions and Aromatics

Start by heating your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the oil and butter, letting them melt together beautifully. Toss in your diced onions and sauté until they turn lightly golden— this should take about 3 to 4 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen! Once the onions are ready, add the minced ginger and garlic, stirring continuously to avoid burning. Let those warm minutes together infuse their flavors—about 30 seconds should do.

Cook the Chicken with Spices

Next, it’s time to introduce the star of the dish: the chicken! Add your chunks of chicken along with the tomato paste and all those aromatic spices we gathered. Stir to combine everything and cook for 5 to 6 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through. And just like that, you’re well on your way to easy 20 minute butter chicken deliciousness!

Add Cream and Simmer

Now for the rich and creamy part—add in the heavy cream, creating that luscious sauce we all love. Lower the heat, allowing it to simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the magic happens—let those flavors meld together for a delectable experience!

Serve with Rice or Naan

Finally, it’s time to plate up. Serve your easy 20 minute butter chicken over a bed of fluffy Basmati rice or alongside warm naan for dipping. I recommend garnishing with fresh cilantro for an added pop of color and flavor!

Whether you’re having a casual dinner or entertaining guests, this quick recipe will surely become a favorite. Enjoy the rich flavors of this Indian classic, and don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes to pair with your meal!

Variations on Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Vegetarian Butter Chicken

Craving a meatless option? Try swapping chicken for chickpeas or paneer! Simply follow the same recipe and replace the chicken with about 1 can of drained chickpeas or 1 pound of cubed paneer. This twist not only retains the creamy delight of the easy 20 minute butter chicken, but it's also packed with protein and fiber. Additionally, you can sauté some spinach or bell peppers to add vibrant colors and even more flavor!

Spicy Butter Chicken

If you love a kick in your meal, jazz up your easy 20 minute butter chicken with spices! Increase the chili powder to 1 ½ to 2 teaspoons, or try adding finely chopped green chilies for extra heat. Consider infusing heat with a teaspoon of cayenne pepper, or if you prefer, a dash of Sriracha just before serving. These adjustments will elevate your dish, making it a hot favorite at your dinner table! For a deeper flavor profile, try adding a splash of coconut milk to balance the heat.

Penning these variations can transform a quick weeknight meal into an exciting culinary adventure, keeping you coming back for more!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

When whipping up this easy 20 minute butter chicken, a few pointers can elevate your dish. Start by ensuring your ingredients, especially the chicken, are prepped and measured beforehand. This “mise en place” approach saves precious time!

Use a large skillet to maximize the surface area for even cooking. If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to adjust the chili powder to your taste. For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt, which brings a tangy twist.

Serve with warm naan or fluffy Basmati rice to soak up every drop of the rich sauce. Enjoy your culinary adventure! For more insights, check out this guide on garam masala and its flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

When serving your easy 20 minute butter chicken, consider pairing it with flavorful sides that complement its rich and creamy texture. Here are some splendid options to elevate your meal:

Fluffy Basmati Rice: The classic pairing! Its subtle flavor absorbs the spices beautifully, making each bite delightful.
Warm Naan Bread: Perfect for scooping up that luscious sauce, naan adds a comforting element to the dish.
Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt dip helps balance the spices in the butter chicken. Simply mix diced cucumbers with yogurt, mint, and a pinch of cumin for a refreshing side.
Steamed Vegetables: A light side of colorful veggies, like broccoli or carrots, adds both nutrition and vibrant contrast.

Experiment with these options and discover your perfect butter chicken feast! Want to explore more? Check out this guide on Indian dishes for inspiration.

Time Breakdown for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Cooking doesn’t have to consume your evening! This easy 20 minute butter chicken is designed to fit seamlessly into your busy schedule. Here’s how it breaks down:

Preparation Time

The preparation for this dish takes just 5 minutes. Chop the onions, garlic, and ginger while you gather the ingredients. Quick and painless!

Cooking Time

Once everything is prepped, the cooking process is a breeze, taking only 15 minutes. That’s right—just sauté, simmer, and you’re ready to eat!

Total Time

All in all, from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious meal on your table in just 20 minutes. Pair it with rice or naan for a complete experience!

For more tips on speeding up your cooking, check out resources like Serious Eats, which shares great cooking hacks to optimize your time in the kitchen.

Nutritional Facts for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Understanding the nutritional breakdown of this easy 20 minute butter chicken can help you make informed choices while enjoying a quick and comforting meal. Here’s what you need to know:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 491 calories, making it a filling yet manageable option for dinner without overindulging.

Protein

Boasting 39 grams of protein per serving, this dish is an excellent way to fuel your body, helping to repair and build muscles after a long day.

Sodium

With 963 milligrams of sodium, it’s important to savor this dish in moderation. Pair it with low-sodium sides or adjust seasoning to suit your dietary needs.

By opting for home-cooked meals like this easy 20 minute butter chicken, you can control ingredient quality and nutritional content. For even more insights on healthy eating, check out resources from Healthline or Mayo Clinic. Enjoy!

FAQs about Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Can I substitute the cream for something healthier?
Absolutely! For a lighter version of this easy 20 minute butter chicken, you can swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even plain yogurt. This will still give you that lovely creaminess with fewer calories. Plus, yogurt adds a nice tang!

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, try adding extra chili powder to the recipe. You can also toss in chopped fresh green chilies or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Start with a small amount and taste as you go—you can always add more if you like it extra spicy!

What sides go best with butter chicken?
Butter chicken pairs wonderfully with fluffy Basmati rice or warm naan, perfect for scooping up all that delicious sauce. You might also enjoy it with a fresh cucumber salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Looking for more side dish inspiration? Check out this guide on popular Indian sides.

Enjoy creating your easy 20 minute butter chicken!

Conclusion on Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner, this easy 20 minute butter chicken is your answer. Bursting with flavor and ready in no time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Pair it with hot rice or naan for an unforgettable meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!