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; 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)); 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup heavy cream ((sub for half & half or yogurt for low fat)); 1 serving hot cooked rice and naan

Introduction to Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Why Butter Chicken is a Weeknight Favorite

If you're searching for a quick and satisfying meal, look no further than easy 20 minute butter chicken. This dish has become a staple in many households, and for good reason! With tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy sauce brimming with aromatic spices, it’s a delicious blend of flavors that never disappoints.

After a long day at work, the last thing anyone wants is to spend hours in the kitchen. That's why this recipe is a lifesaver! You can have dinner on the table in just twenty minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s easily customizable; whether you're a spice enthusiast or prefer a milder dish, you can adjust the heat to your liking.

And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a one-pan meal? Fewer dishes mean more time to unwind after a long day. Serve it up with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan, and you’ve got a comforting meal that feels indulgent without a ton of effort. For more delightful recipes, check out BBC Good Food or Serious Eats for ideas on how to keep your dinner rotation fresh!

Ingredients for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Essential ingredients for a perfect butter chicken

To whip up your easy 20 minute butter chicken, you’ll need a handful of staple ingredients that come together to make this dish a creamy delight:

Oil and butter: For sautéing and flavor. A mix of both gives a wonderful richness.
Onion: Provides a savory foundation; finely diced is best.
Fresh ginger and garlic: Minced ginger and garlic are essential for that aromatic kick.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into chunks cook quickly and absorb flavors well.
Tomato paste or sauce: For the rich, vibrant sauce that makes the dish shine.
Spices: Garam masala, chili powder, salt, and pepper add warmth and complexity.

Optional ingredients to elevate the recipe

Want to take your butter chicken to the next level? Consider these optional ingredients:

Fenugreek: Its slightly sweet and nutty flavor enhances authenticity.
Cumin: Adds earthy depth to the dish.
Cream alternative: Swap heavy cream for half & half or yogurt for a lighter version.
Fresh cilantro or garnish: Brightens the dish with a fresh burst.

With these ingredients, you’re just minutes away from a flavor-packed meal that will impress any crowd!

Preparing Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Cooking a flavorful meal in a pinch is every busy professional's dream, and this easy 20 minute butter chicken recipe is the answer to that dream! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal time, you can create a comforting dish that's sure to impress. Here’s how to make it happen in five simple steps.

Gather and prep your ingredients

Before you begin cooking, gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium onion, diced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely minced or grated
2-3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾-inch chunks
4 tablespoons tomato paste (or an 8 oz can of tomato sauce)
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon chili powder (or paprika)
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream (or half & half)
Hot cooked rice or naan for serving

Getting your ingredients ready isn't just about ticking boxes; it can also make the actual cooking process feel more enjoyable and less stressful.

Sauté onions, ginger, and garlic

In a large skillet or medium saucepan, heat the oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions first and let them cook down for about 3-4 minutes until they turn lightly golden. The aroma is wonderful and sets the stage for the other flavors. Once the onions are ready, toss in the fresh ginger and garlic, and sauté for another 30 seconds. Make sure to stir continuously so they don’t burn—a quick dance around the pan works wonders!

Cook the chicken and spices

Now it’s time to introduce the chicken. Add the chunks into the skillet along with the tomato paste and all those delicious spices (garam masala, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper). Cook everything together for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. The spices will infuse the chicken beautifully and transform your dish into a tantalizing curry.

Add cream and simmer to perfection

Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the heavy cream. This luxurious addition is what gives butter chicken its signature richness. Let the mixture simmer for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to meld the flavors beautifully while allowing the sauce to thicken up just a smidge, giving you that velvety texture everyone loves.

Serve with rice or naan

Finally, it's time to enjoy your creation! Spoon the easy 20 minute butter chicken over a bowl of steaming basmati rice or serve with warm naan bread for dipping. Whether you're curling up on the couch or hosting a casual dinner, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Don't forget a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top if you have it!

Your culinary adventure will not only save you time but also allow you to savor every bite of this delicious meal. Happy cooking!

Variations on Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken with Coconut Milk

For a creamy twist on your easy 20 minute butter chicken, consider substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk. This alternative not only adds a delightful tropical flavor but also makes the dish dairy-free. Simply replace one cup of heavy cream with one cup of coconut milk, and simmer just as you normally would. The richness of the coconut complements the spices beautifully and will leave your taste buds dancing.

Vegetarian-Friendly Options

If you or your guests prefer a plant-based option, transforming this recipe into a vegetarian delight is simple! Swap out the chicken with bite-sized pieces of tofu or chickpeas for a protein boost. You can also add an assortment of vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or spinach. Just make sure to cook them until tender before adding the sauce, ensuring a pleasing texture that matches the traditional butter chicken experience. For more inspiration, check out this vegetarian butter chicken recipe.

Cooking tips and notes for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Key cooking techniques for flavor enhancement

To elevate your easy 20 minute butter chicken, here are some essential cooking techniques:

Sauté the Aromatics: Start by sautéing onions until golden. This caramelization intensifies their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base.
Toast the Spices: Add your spices right after the aromatics. Toasting them briefly in the pan releases essential oils, enhancing their flavors.
Quality Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. For instance, fresh ginger and garlic elevate the dish significantly; if you prefer convenience, quality pre-minced options can work too.

For more spice tips, check out this guide to Indian spices. Remember, cooking is as much about technique as it is about ingredients, so enjoy experimenting in the kitchen!

Serving suggestions for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

When it comes to serving your easy 20 minute butter chicken, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable. Here are some fantastic suggestions to complement the dish:

Best sides and garnishes to complement the dish

Steamed Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati is the perfect vehicle for soaking up the creamy butter chicken sauce.
Warm Naan or Roti: Use naan for a delightful scoop of sauce; it’s a satisfying staple in Indian cuisine.
Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro brings brightness and freshness to the rich flavors.
Sliced Cucumbers or a Simple Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with lemon and salt can balance the richness of the curry.

Each of these additions enhances the meal while keeping the preparation quick and simple! For more nourishing ideas, consider exploring five quick salad recipes.

Time breakdown for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Preparation time
Start by gathering your ingredients and chopping the onion, garlic, and ginger. This should take about 5 minutes. Get everything laid out to make the cooking process a breeze.

Cooking time
Once you're ready, the actual cooking of this easy 20 minute butter chicken will take around 15 minutes. This includes sautéing, simmering, and the heavenly aroma filling your kitchen!

Total time
In just 20 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready to enjoy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner! For more tips on quick meals, check out this guide.

Nutritional Facts for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

When preparing your easy 20 minute butter chicken, it's helpful to know what you're feeding your body. Here’s a brief overview of the nutritional content per serving:

Calories per serving

This flavorful dish contains approximately 491 calories per serving, making it a hearty meal that won’t derail your day.

Protein content

Packed with 39 grams of protein, this butter chicken recipe supports muscle health and keeps you feeling satisfied.

Sodium levels

Keep an eye on your sodium intake, as one serving has about 963mg of sodium. To reduce this, consider using low-sodium tomato paste or adjusting the salt to taste.

By understanding these numbers, you can enjoy your butter chicken while being mindful of your dietary needs! If you're interested in more tips on healthy eating, check out this insightful article from Healthline.

FAQ about Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using frozen chicken is a great time-saver. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly; it might take a few extra minutes for the chicken to be done. For even faster results, you can thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

What can I substitute if I don't have garam masala?

No garam masala? No problem! You can create a simple substitute by mixing equal parts of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. If you have individual spices like cardamom or cloves, toss those in too for a nice touch. Alternatively, a pre-made curry powder can work in a pinch!

How can I make butter chicken less spicy?

To dial down the spice in your easy 20 minute butter chicken, reduce the amount of chili powder you add, or replace it with smoked paprika for flavor without the heat. Adding more cream can also help mellow the spices and create a richer sauce, perfect for those who prefer a milder dish.

For further cooking tips, you might enjoy checking out Food Network's guide to spices for a deeper dive into flavor profiles!

Conclusion on Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a delicious, comforting plate of easy 20 minute butter chicken. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Pair it with hot rice or fresh naan for a satisfying meal. Enjoy!