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 (about 2-3 breasts); 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 or mustard 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

When it comes to quick and satisfying weeknight dinners, butter chicken has firmly secured its spot as a favorite in many kitchens. Why? Well, aside from its incredible flavor profile, this easy 20 minute butter chicken dish is a lifesaver for busy young professionals who want something wholesome yet effortless to whip up after a long day.

Imagine coming home, feeling the weight of the day, and craving something comforting. Butter chicken perfectly fits the bill! It's creamy, savory, and pairs beautifully with rice or naan. Plus, this recipe is designed to save you time. With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you'll have a piping hot meal that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

What better way to elevate your dinner table than with this vibrant dish steeped in Indian cuisine? You won't even need to be a culinary expert; all you really need is a large skillet and a few staple ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Along the way, you can also explore interesting flavor combinations, making every batch of easy butter chicken a unique experience.

So, are you ready to dive in? Let's get cooking!

Ingredients for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Cooking up a delicious Indian meal doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. This easy 20-minute butter chicken recipe brings together a handful of essential ingredients to create a dish that’s rich, creamy, and comforting.

Essential Ingredients for Flavorful Butter Chicken

Chicken: Use about 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into chunks. This is the main star!
Onion and Garlic: One medium diced onion and a few cloves of minced garlic add depth and flavor.
Tomato Base: Opt for either tomato paste or an 8 oz can of tomato sauce for that rich red color.
Spices: Key spices include garam masala, chili powder, and cumin. They are essential for that authentic Indian flavor.
Cream: Use 1 cup of heavy cream for a luscious finish; you can substitute with half & half or yogurt for a lighter version.

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flair

While the essential ingredients make for a fantastic dish already, consider adding:

Fresh Ginger: A teaspoon of minced or grated ginger enhances the aromatic profile.
Fenugreek: A teaspoon of this adds a lovely earthy taste; if you don't have it, feel free to skip.
Fresh Herbs: Chopped cilantro sprinkled on top can elevate your dish visually and taste-wise.

With these simple ingredients in your kitchen, you're just 20 minutes away from enjoying a vibrant, mouthwatering dinner! For more details on different spices, check out this resource on spice profiles from the Culinary Institute of America.

Step-by-Step Preparation for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Cooking at home doesn't have to be a time-consuming affair, especially with this easy 20 minute butter chicken recipe. Let’s break it down step-by-step so that you can whip up this delicious dish in no time!

Gather and Prepare the Ingredients

Before you dive into cooking, it’s essential to have everything ready. Here's what you'll need:

1 tablespoon oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium onion, diced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely minced or grated (or you can opt for paste)
2-3 cloves garlic, finely 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 blend of spices: 1 tablespoon garam masala, 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference), 1 teaspoon fenugreek, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup heavy cream (you can substitute half & half or yogurt for a lighter version)
Hot cooked rice and naan, to serve

Take a moment to chop everything up; this will streamline the cooking process. When all your ingredients are prepped, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running.

Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the oil and butter, allowing the two to melt together. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until it's lightly golden, which should take about 3-4 minutes. At this point, add your ginger and garlic, stirring them in for an additional 30 seconds. The aroma will start filling your kitchen, making the anticipation of easy 20 minute butter chicken even more exciting!

Cook the Chicken

Now, it’s time for the chicken. Add your chicken chunks to the skillet, mixing them with the sautéed onion, ginger, and garlic. Make sure everything is well-coated and let it cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. This step ensures that each piece is flavorful and juicy.

Add Tomato and Spices

Next, incorporate the tomato paste (or sauce) along with your spice mix. Stir everything together until the chicken is well coated in the vibrant red-orange sauce. Cook it for another 3-4 minutes to let those earthy flavors blend beautifully together.

Stir in the Cream

It’s time to bring in the cream! Pour in your heavy cream, giving the mixture a good stir. This will add that luscious, creamy texture that butter chicken is known for. Allow it to simmer for about 8-10 minutes; this is where the dish gets its truly indulgent feel.

Simmer and Serve

Finally, take a taste—do you need a pinch more salt or spice? Adjust to your liking. Once you're satisfied, serve your easy 20 minute butter chicken warm over fluffy Basmati rice or with warm naan for scooping.

With just a few steps, you’ve created a delightful dish that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your culinary creation!

Variations on Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

If you love the Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken recipe, why not mix things up? Here are two delightful variations!

Creamy Coconut Butter Chicken

For a tropical twist, swap out the heavy cream with coconut milk. This variation not only adds a hint of sweetness but also gives your dish a rich, creamy texture that complements the spices beautifully. Simply add a can of coconut milk towards the end of the cooking process and let it simmer for an additional five minutes before serving. Your taste buds will thank you!

Vegetarian Butter Chicken Alternative

Craving a plant-based option? Substitute the chicken with paneer, tempeh, or even chickpeas. Cook these alternatives in the same way as the traditional recipe, ensuring they absorb all those wonderful spices. This veggie-friendly version is just as flavorful and satisfying, making it a perfect choice for Meatless Mondays. Curious about different spices? Check out this spice guide to elevate your plant-based cooking.

Enjoy experimenting with these variations and make the Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken your own!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Making this easy 20 minute butter chicken is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your dish!

Prep Ingredients First: Chopping onions, garlic, and chicken beforehand makes cooking seamless. Set yourself up for success!
Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices intensely boost flavor. If you have whole spices, consider toasting them before adding to enhance their profile.
Substitutions for Creaminess: If you're looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or coconut milk can serve as a great alternative to heavy cream without compromising on richness.
Adjust the Heat: Curious about level of spice? Start with less chili powder, you can always add more at the end for a little kick.
Serve Smart: Pair with fluffy Basmati rice or warm naan to soak up every bit of that delectable sauce.

For more inspiration, check out this article on Indian cooking for additional spice tips!

Serving Suggestions for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Pairing with Rice or Naan

To elevate your easy 20 minute butter chicken, consider serving it with fluffy basmati rice or warm, soft naan. The rice will soak up the creamy sauce beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. If you opt for naan, it's perfect for scooping up the rich butter chicken and adds an authentic Indian touch. Want to get adventurous? Try making garlic naan or even whole wheat naan for a healthier twist!

Garnishing Ideas

A little garnish can go a long way in enhancing your dish. Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor, while a squeeze of lime brightens everything up. Consider topping your butter chicken with a dollop of yogurt or cream for added richness. You can also sprinkle some toasted cashews on top for a delightful crunch. These simple touches make your meal not only more appealing but also a showcase of your culinary creativity!

Looking for more ways to serve this delicious dish? Check out these innovative serving styles that can add a unique twist to traditional butter chicken.

Time Breakdown for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

When you're in a hurry but still craving something rich and flavorful, this easy 20 minute butter chicken fits perfectly into your schedule. Here’s how the time works out:

Preparation Time

In just 5 minutes, you can dice your onion, mince the garlic, and prepare your chicken for a smooth cooking experience.

Cooking Time

With 15 minutes on the stove, everything from sautéing to simmering happens quickly. You’ll be savoring your delicious meal before you know it!

Total Time

The grand total is a quick 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights or a spontaneous dinner gathering!

Ready to dive into this delectable dish? Check out this resource for variations and tips from fellow cooking enthusiasts!

Nutritional Facts for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Calories per Serving

Each serving of easy 20 minute butter chicken contains approximately 491 calories, making it a satisfying and hearty meal option. It’s a great choice for a busy weeknight dinner without compromising flavor.

Key Nutritional Benefits

High in Protein: With about 39g of protein per serving, this dish is perfect for muscle repair and growth, especially helpful for active individuals or those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Healthy Fats: Featuring 33g of fat largely from butter and heavy cream, this recipe provides healthy energy sources. Opt for yogurt or half-and-half for a lighter alternative.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Enjoy significant amounts of Vitamin A and iron, promoting good vision and overall health.

For more nutritional insights, check resources like NutritionData or MyFitnessPal to explore how this dish fits into your dietary needs.

Making your meals flavorful while being conscious of nutrition can help you stay energized and satisfied. Give this easy 20 minute butter chicken a try, and enjoy a deliciously balanced dinner!

FAQs about Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Can I make this butter chicken dairy-free?
Absolutely! To achieve a dairy-free version of this easy 20 minute butter chicken, simply replace the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative, like coconut cream or cashew cream. These substitutes will provide the dish with creaminess without the dairy. You can also use almond milk for a lower-calorie option, though it might slightly alter the flavor.

What can I substitute for chicken?
If you're looking for a protein alternative, consider using chickpeas for a vegetarian option or even paneer if you want something dairy-based. For a meat alternative, diced tofu or seitan work well, too. Each of these has a different texture, but they can soak up the spices and flavors beautifully!

How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftover butter chicken can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or microwave, and it should taste just as delightful. You might be tempted to ogle it for longer, but trust us to enjoy the best flavors within this time! For more tips on ingredient storage, check out this resource.

Conclusion on Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

In just 20 minutes, you can elevate your dinner game with this easy 20 minute butter chicken. It's creamy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. Pair it with fluffy rice or warm naan for an unforgettable meal. Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade Indian cuisine at your table!