Name: Quick and Easy Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 4 tbsp butter (divided); 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 cup canned tomato puree; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp turmeric; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

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The aroma of sizzling spices fills the air as you walk into your kitchen, and suddenly, you find yourself on a culinary adventure that promises to whisk you away to India with every bite. Imagine tender chunks of chicken enveloped in a creamy, buttery sauce that dances on your taste buds like a Bollywood star at a wedding. Yes, my friends, this is not just any dish; this is Quick and Easy Butter Chicken. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Butter chicken? Quick and easy? How is that even possible?” Well, strap on your aprons and prepare for some kitchen magic because this recipe will make you the star of dinner parties and family gatherings without turning you into a frazzled mess. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or an impromptu feast with friends, this dish has got you covered.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This quick and easy butter chicken recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Its rich, creamy flavor profile will impress even the pickiest eaters in your family.
Visually stunning with its vibrant orange hues, it’s sure to be the centerpiece of any table.
Plus, it pairs beautifully with rice or naan for endless versatility!

Ingredients for Quick and Easy Butter Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 1 pound of chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
Butter: A generous amount of butter gives the sauce its rich flavor and silky texture.
Onion: Use one medium onion, finely chopped for sweetness and depth in flavor.
Garlic: About three cloves minced; garlic packs a punch that elevates the entire dish.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth; use about one tablespoon grated for the best results.

For the Sauce:

Canned Tomato Puree: This forms the base of our sauce—opt for high-quality puree for richer flavor.
Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess; use about one cup to create that luscious texture we love in butter chicken.
Spices (Garam Masala, Turmeric, Cumin): These spices are essential in delivering that authentic Indian flavor profile—don’t skip them!

End with: “The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.”

How to Make Quick and Easy Butter Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt two tablespoons of butter. Add in the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown, around five minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter if needed. Toss in your finely chopped onions and cook them until they become translucent—about three minutes should do it! The scent will start to draw people into your kitchen like moths to a flame.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger

Next up is our dynamic duo: garlic and ginger! Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger into those sweet onions. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant but not burnt—trust me; no one wants bitter garlic ruining their day.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Pour in your canned tomato puree along with all those wonderful spices: garam masala, turmeric, and cumin. Stir everything together while marveling at that vibrant color—it’s like painting a masterpiece right on your stovetop! Let it simmer for about five minutes to let those flavors marry.

Step 5: Cream It Up

Now comes the fun part! Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in heavy cream until well combined. Allow it to simmer gently for another five minutes—you want it creamy but not bubbling over like my Aunt Edna’s infamous Thanksgiving casserole! For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Amish Country Casserole recipe.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, return your chicken back into the pan along with any juices collected. Stir well to coat all those delightful morsels in sauce perfection! Cook everything together for another two-three minutes until heated through.

Transfer to plates over fluffy rice or warm naan bread for that perfect finishing touch!

And there you have it—Quick and Easy Butter Chicken that’s bursting with flavor yet so simple to whip up. Enjoy every creamy bite while basking in praise from your dinner guests because let’s be honest—everyone loves being told they’re culinary geniuses!

You Must Know

This quick and easy butter chicken recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
With simple ingredients, you can whip up a creamy, spiced sauce that will make dinner feel like a special occasion without the fuss.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then simmer it in the luscious sauce while preparing your rice or naan. This sequence ensures everything is ready at the same time for maximum enjoyment.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. You can also experiment with spices, adding more heat or using coconut milk for a tropical twist on this quick and easy butter chicken.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the butter chicken on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always pat your chicken dry before searing; this helps achieve that beautiful golden crust.
Don’t skip the fresh ginger; it’s key to that authentic flavor.
Lastly, let your butter chicken rest before serving; this allows all those amazing flavors to meld perfectly.

There was that one time I made this quick and easy butter chicken for friends, and they couldn’t stop raving about it. It felt great knowing I could impress them without spending all day in the kitchen!

FAQs:

What is Quick and Easy Butter Chicken?

Quick and Easy Butter Chicken is a simplified version of the traditional Indian dish, aiming to provide the same rich flavors without the long cooking times. It typically includes tender chicken pieces cooked in a creamy tomato sauce, seasoned with spices like garam masala, cumin, and coriander. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights while still delivering on taste. You can serve it with rice or naan for a complete meal.

How long does it take to make Quick and Easy Butter Chicken?

You can prepare Quick and Easy Butter Chicken in about 30 minutes from start to finish. With pre-marinated chicken or using bite-sized pieces can speed up the cooking process significantly. The key is to have all ingredients ready and follow the steps efficiently. delicious grilled chicken burrito This makes it an ideal choice for those who want a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I make Quick and Easy Butter Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Quick and Easy Butter Chicken ahead of time! This dish actually tastes even better after sitting for a day as the flavors meld together. Simply prepare the recipe as directed, allow it to cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

What can I serve with Quick and Easy Butter Chicken?

Quick and Easy Butter Chicken pairs wonderfully with basmati rice or naan bread. For a healthier option, consider serving it with quinoa or steamed vegetables. You might also want to add a side of cucumber raita for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. flavorful tortellini pasta salad fresh homemade caesar salad Adding some fresh cilantro on top can enhance both flavor and presentation.

Conclusion for Quick and Easy Butter Chicken:

In conclusion, Quick and Easy Butter Chicken offers a delightful way to enjoy authentic Indian flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. With its creamy tomato sauce and aromatic spices, this dish satisfies cravings while being simple to make. Whether you choose to serve it with rice or naan, it’s bound to impress family and friends alike. Don’t forget that making this dish ahead of time enhances its flavor even more! Enjoy your culinary adventure with this quick recipe!

Quick and Easy Butter Chicken: A Flavorful Delight