Name: Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 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, I use powder, but seeds or mustard seeds can be used too); 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 for serving

Introduction to Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

If you’re a busy young professional, you know the struggle of balancing work, social life, and healthy eating. That's where homemade butter chicken comes to your rescue! This easy 20 minute butter chicken recipe is not just a quick meal; it’s a culinary game changer. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a delicious, creamy dish that rivals any restaurant!

Imagine coming home after a long day, craving something flavorful but dreading the thought of spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe calls for items you likely already have on hand, such as chicken, onions, and spices. By using pantry staples along with fresh ginger and garlic from the grocery store, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time!

What makes homemade butter chicken so appealing for young professionals is not just its convenience; it’s also the ability to control what goes into your food. You can tweak the spices to your liking, ensuring your dish is perfectly tailored to your taste buds. Plus, serving it over hot cooked rice or with naan gives you that authentic touch to impress your friends during your next casual dinner party.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Essential ingredients for a quick and delicious meal

To whip up this easy 20 minute butter chicken, you'll need a handful of essential ingredients that come together beautifully. These include:

1 tablespoon oil (for sautéing)
1 tablespoon butter (for rich flavor)
1 medium onion, diced (aromatic base)
1 teaspoon fresh ginger (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 8 oz can of tomato sauce (for that signature color and taste)
Spices: 1 tablespoon garam masala, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, and salt to taste
1 cup heavy cream (for creaminess)

Optional ingredients to enhance flavor

Want to take your easy 20 minute butter chicken to the next level? Consider adding these optional ingredients:

Fenugreek (1 teaspoon, can be powder or seeds) for a deeper flavor profile
A sprinkle of black pepper (¼ teaspoon) for that subtle kick
Cilantro or fresh parsley for garnish—because who doesn’t love a vibrant finish?

These components not only enhance the dish but also allow you to cater to your personal taste. Experiment a little, and you might just discover your own twist on this classic!

For more cooking inspiration, check out Gimme Delicious or Serious Eats.

Preparing Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Making an easy 20 minute butter chicken is not only a delightful experience but also a magnificent way to impress your friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen. Follow this step-by-step guide for a flavorful dish that delivers big on taste in minimal time.

Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s important to have everything in place. Head to the kitchen and gather the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon oil (like olive oil for a healthier choice)
1 tablespoon butter
1 medium onion, diced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely minced (or use ginger paste)
2-3 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾-inch chunks
4 tablespoons tomato paste (or an 8 oz can of tomato sauce)
Spices: 1 tablespoon garam masala, 1 teaspoon chili powder (or paprika), optional 1 teaspoon fenugreek, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup heavy cream
Hot cooked rice and naan for serving

Preparation is key, so make sure your chicken is cut into chunks, and your spices are measured out to make this cooking process as swift as possible!

Sauté Onions, Ginger, and Garlic

Begin by heating a large skillet or medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add your oil and butter, letting them melt together. Toss in the diced onion, cooking it until it turns lightly golden—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Once the onions are ready, add in the ginger and garlic, stirring continuously for about 30 seconds. This step will infuse the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas!

Cook the Chicken and Add Spices

After your aromatics are fragrant, it’s time to add the chicken pieces. Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring the chicken is well-coated, then sprinkle in the spices: garam masala, chili powder, fenugreek, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through. For those curious about benefits, check out the health advantages of including spices in your diet from Healthline.

Stir in the Heavy Cream

The final step of this easy 20 minute butter chicken is the addition of the heavy cream. Pour it in slowly, stirring to combine everything together. Let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This creamy goodness is what transforms your chicken into a buttery delight!

Final Touches Before Serving

Before you serve your masterpiece, taste for seasoning. Adjust with more salt or spice if needed. Serve your butter chicken over hot cooked rice or with some warm naan—perfect for sopping up every bit of that luxurious sauce. Garnish with some fresh cilantro, if you have it!

In just 20 minutes, you’ve created a comforting meal that’s sure to impress! Enjoy the accolades!

Variations on Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Butter chicken with a vegetarian twist

If you're looking for a vegetarian version of this classic dish, substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu. Simply cut your choice into bite-sized pieces and sauté them until golden before adding the tomato paste and spices. You can also incorporate veggies like spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without missing out on the rich, creamy flavors that make butter chicken so beloved.

Spicy variations for heat lovers

For those who crave a little extra kick in their easy 20 minute butter chicken, try adding finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of sriracha while cooking. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or toss in red pepper flakes during the simmering stage. Pair your dish with cooling sides like cucumber raita or a refreshing salad to balance the heat. Experimenting with spices can turn this beloved recipe into a vibrant, fiery feast that keeps things exciting at the dinner table!

Cooking tips and notes for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

How to avoid common pitfalls

Preparing Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken is straightforward, yet some common mistakes can change the flavor. Ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; this helps it brown properly and reduces steaming. Additionally, keep an eye on the garlic—burnt garlic can add an unpleasant bitterness to your sauce. If using tomato paste, remember to let it cook for a minute to deepen the flavor.

Suggestions for customizing spice levels

Want a milder dish? Reduce the amount of chili powder or substitute it with paprika. For a bolder punch, feel free to double the spice! Adding a touch of cayenne pepper can also elevate the heat without overwhelming the dish. Don’t forget, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro at the end not only enhances flavor but adds a beautiful touch of freshness.

Embrace your creativity and make this dish your own!

Serving Suggestions for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Perfect sides to complement your meal

To elevate your easy 20 minute butter chicken, consider pairing it with:

Basmati Rice: Fluffy, aromatic rice that soaks up the rich sauce beautifully.
Naan: Soft and pillowy, perfect for scooping up the chicken.
Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt dip that balances the spice with refreshing flavors.
Steamed Vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies add nutrition and a lovely crunch!

Creative serving ideas for impressing friends

Want to wow your guests? Try these fun serving ideas for your easy 20 minute butter chicken:

Bento Boxes: Serve individual portions in bento-style containers, each with rice, chicken, and a side of raita for a trendy touch.
Family-Style Platter: Present the dish in a large serving dish with garnishes like fresh cilantro or slices of lime for a vibrant presentation.
Skewers: Thread grilled pieces of chicken onto skewers for a fun, finger-friendly option.

With these ideas, your butter chicken meal will be a delightful experience!

Time breakdown for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Preparation time

To kick off your culinary adventure, you’ll need about 5 minutes to chop your onions, mince the garlic, and measure out your spices. Quick and straightforward, right?

Cooking time

Once you're all set, the cooking will take approximately 15 minutes. This includes heating your skillet, sautéing the ingredients, and bringing everything to a delicious simmer.

Total time

In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a mouthwatering easy 20 minute butter chicken dish ready to serve. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something flavorful without the fuss!

Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Calories
Each serving of this easy 20 minute butter chicken packs approximately 491 calories, making it a fulfilling meal that fits well within a balanced diet.

Protein Content
You’ll love that there's a whopping 39 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the chicken. It’s an excellent source for those looking to boost their protein intake.

Recommended Servings
This recipe typically serves 4 people, so gather your friends or family for a cozy dinner. Or keep the leftovers for quick meals throughout the week!

Feel free to explore more about the nutritional benefits of chicken on platforms like Healthline. Enjoy the rich and creamy flavors of this dish while keeping your meals healthy!

FAQs about Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken, but it's best to thaw it first for even cooking. If you're in a pinch, you can cook it from frozen, but it may require an extra few minutes to ensure it's fully cooked through. Just be sure to cut it into smaller pieces for quicker cooking.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you're looking to lighten up your easy 20 minute butter chicken, consider using half-and-half or plain yogurt as a substitute for heavy cream. Both options will still provide a creamy texture, with yogurt adding a bit of tanginess. If you want to keep it dairy-free, you could try coconut cream for a unique flavor twist.

How do I store leftover butter chicken?

Storing your leftovers is easy! Simply let the butter chicken cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion on Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

Final thoughts on why you should try this dish today

There’s really no reason to wait! This easy 20-minute butter chicken is a delightful game changer for busy weeknights. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also delivers a rich flavor profile that will impress your friends and family. Dive in today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!