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); 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 Butter Chicken

Why Butter Chicken is a Game Changer for Young Professionals

If you're a young professional navigating the hustle and bustle of a busy lifestyle, easy butter chicken is the culinary solution you've been searching for. This dish not only brings an explosion of flavor to your dinner table but also fits perfectly within a tight schedule. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, mouth-watering meal that feels like a treat after a long day.

Imagine coming home exhausted but knowing that in less time than it takes to heat up takeout, you can serve a fragrant, comforting dish. Easy butter chicken is not just quick; it’s also incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to choice for weeknight dinners. According to a recent survey, 65% of young adults prefer cooking meals from scratch over the hassle of ordering in, citing health, cost, and enjoyment as their top reasons.

Another benefit? It's a one-pan wonder! With minimal cleanup required, you can spend more time enjoying your meal rather than washing piles of dishes. So grab those essential ingredients and join the ranks of busy professionals discovering the joys of homemade deliciousness with this easy butter chicken recipe. It’s time to elevate your weeknight dinners effortlessly!

Ingredients for Easy Butter Chicken

When it comes to whipping up your easy butter chicken, having the right ingredients is key for that creamy, delicious finish. Below is a handy list to help you gather everything you'll need for this delightful dish.

Oil and Butter: Start with 1 tablespoon of your favorite cooking oil and another tablespoon of butter for rich flavor.
Fresh Aromatics: You'll need 1 diced medium onion, 1 teaspoon of finely minced or grated fresh ginger, and 2-3 minced garlic cloves to build a robust base.
Chicken: Use about 1 ½ pounds (2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts) cut into ¾-inch chunks.
Tomato Base: Choose between 4 tablespoons of tomato paste or an 8 oz can of tomato sauce for that luscious, saucy goodness.
Spices: Gather 1 tablespoon of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of chili powder (or paprika), 1 teaspoon of cumin, and optional fenugreek for a richer flavor.
Creaminess: Don’t forget 1 cup of heavy cream for that ultimate creaminess, although you can substitute half & half or yogurt for a lighter option.
Seasoning: Finally, season with salt and black pepper to taste.

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a mouthwatering meal in just 20 minutes! For more details, check out the full recipe here. Happy cooking!

Step-by-step Preparation of Easy Butter Chicken

Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

The first step in making this easy butter chicken is to gather all your ingredients. This not only saves time but also keeps your kitchen organized. You will need:

1 tablespoon oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium onion, diced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾-inch chunks
4 tablespoons tomato paste (or a small can of tomato sauce)
A mix of spices: garam masala, chili powder, cumin, fenugreek (optional), salt, and black pepper
1 cup heavy cream (feel free to use half & half or yogurt for a lighter version)
Hot cooked rice or naan for serving

Once you've got everything together, give yourself a mental high-five! This dish is all about simplifying the process.

Sauté Onions, Garlic, and Ginger

Now we dive into the aromatic part! Heat a large skillet or medium saucepan over medium-high heat and add the oil and butter. Once melted, toss in the diced onion and let them cook until they're lightly golden—this should take about 3-4 minutes.

Next, introduce the minced ginger and garlic. Stir them in and allow to cook for about 30 seconds. This step is crucial because it builds the flavor base. If your nose isn't tingling with those heavenly scents, you might want to check your stove!

Cook Chicken with Tomato Paste and Spices

With your aromatic base ready, it's time to add the chicken. Toss the chunks into the skillet and cook them until they're no longer pink—about 5-6 minutes.

Next, add in the tomato paste and your mix of spices: garam masala, chili powder (or paprika), cumin, fenugreek, salt, and black pepper. This is where the magic happens. Stir everything together and let those flavors meld beautifully.

Add Cream and Simmer

Once your chicken is cooked through and coated in those vibrant spices, it’s time to make this an easy butter chicken by adding the cream. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Keep it on low heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where the sauce thickens, making it creamy and decadent!

Serve Over Rice or with Naan

Your easy butter chicken is nearly ready! Serve it over steaming basmati rice or alongside warm naan for the ultimate dining experience. The creaminess and spice of the sauce pairs perfectly with the rice, soaking up every delicious bite. Feel free to garnish with fresh cilantro if you like, adding a pop of color and flavor.

And there you have it—an approachable and extremely flavorful easy butter chicken that’s ready in just 20 minutes! Try this recipe once, and it might just become a weekly favorite. Happy cooking!

Variations on Easy Butter Chicken

Healthy Alternatives

For those looking to lighten up this classic dish, consider swapping out the heavy cream for coconut milk or Greek yogurt. This not only reduces calories but adds a delightful creaminess! You can also replace chicken with lean turkey breast or chickpeas for a lower-fat option that still satisfies your cravings.

Vegetarian Butter Chicken Options

Craving that rich, buttery flavor without the meat? Try using paneer or a mix of cauliflower, potatoes, and green peas instead! These hearty vegetables soak up the spices beautifully, making for a satisfying vegetarian version of our easy butter chicken.

Feel free to customize your meal with whatever makes you happy—just remember to keep it delicious! Happy cooking!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Butter Chicken

If you're striving to whip up a deliciously easy butter chicken, here are some helpful tips to streamline your cooking process:

Prep Ahead: Dice your onions and mince your garlic and ginger before starting; this speeds up your cooking time.
Use Leftover Chicken: If you have cooked chicken on hand, simply skip the cooking step and mix it in with the sauce for even less hassle.
Spice it Up: Adjust the level of chili powder based on your heat preference. For milder flavor, use paprika instead.
Cream Alternatives: If you're looking to lighten the dish, half-and-half or yogurt can be great substitutes for heavy cream.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve your butter chicken with fluffy Basmati rice or warm naan for a satisfying meal.

Feel free to explore further recipes using similar ingredients; cooking is all about experimenting and enjoying the process! For more tips, check out these simple cooking hacks.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Butter Chicken

When thinking about how to serve your easy butter chicken, the possibilities are delightful! For an authentic touch, pair it with warm naan or basmati rice to soak up the rich, creamy sauce. If you prefer a lighter alternative, consider serving it over quinoa or cauliflower rice.

Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. A side of cucumber salad or raita can provide a refreshing contrast to the spices, balancing out the creaminess. Want to jazz it up? Serve some chutney on the side for an extra layer of taste! For tips on choosing the best naan, check out this helpful guide.

Time Breakdown for Easy Butter Chicken

Preparation Time

In just 5 minutes, you can gather and chop all your ingredients for this delicious easy butter chicken. Make sure to have everything prepped so you can enjoy a smooth cooking experience!

Cooking Time

This dish cooks in a swift 15 minutes, heating up flavors and tender chicken in a single pan. It’s perfect when you’re in a hurry but craving something comforting.

Total Time

With a combined total of 20 minutes, you can serve up an incredible meal without spending the entire evening in the kitchen. Enjoy this quick and tasty easy butter chicken recipe alongside some fluffy rice or warm naan!

For additional ingredients and tips, check out this source about cooking techniques.

Nutritional Facts for Easy Butter Chicken

Calories and Key Nutrients

This easy butter chicken recipe serves four, with each serving packing a nutritious punch:

Calories: 491
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 39g
Fat: 33g (Saturated Fat: 17g)
Cholesterol: 198mg
Sodium: 963mg
Potassium: 895mg
Fiber: 2g

Loaded with protein and healthy fats, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition. For those looking to lighten it up, consider swapping heavy cream for half and half or yogurt. Dive into this delicious meal, and feel good about what you're eating! For more nutritional insights, check out resources from the USDA or Healthline.

FAQs about Easy Butter Chicken

Can I make butter chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! This easy butter chicken makes for a great meal prep option. You can cook it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. It even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together!

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or plain yogurt. Both alternatives will still give you a creamy texture, but keep in mind that yogurt may curdle if heated too quickly.

How spicy is butter chicken, and can I adjust it?

Typically, easy butter chicken has a mild to medium spice level, but you can definitely adjust it to suit your taste. If you prefer it spicier, add more chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether. Customize it until it’s just right for you!

For more great tips on preparing this recipe, consider checking out Gimme Delicious for more insights!

Conclusion on Easy Butter Chicken

In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this easy butter chicken recipe that's bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Don’t forget to serve it alongside some warm naan or fluffy rice for the ultimate comfort meal. Enjoy every bite!