EASY 20 MINUTE BUTTER CHICKEN

Introduction

If you’ve ever craved the rich, buttery goodness of Indian butter chicken but thought it took too long to make, you’re in for a treat! This recipe takes just 20 minutes, so you can whip it up even on a busy weeknight. It’s that quick and satisfying meal we all need every now and then.

I remember the first time I tried making butter chicken. I was excited but ended up struggling with all the spices and steps. It felt overwhelming! But now, I’ve simplified everything, so it’s much easier and still delicious.

And you’ll love that this dish makes your kitchen smell amazing while you cook. The aroma of spices and simmering sauce fills the air, making your stomach rumble before it’s even ready. It’s a little bit of magic in just a short time!

One quick tip: always have some cooked rice or naan on hand. It seriously makes meals like this one so much better. You can easily soak up that rich sauce and feel like a culinary hero.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• Cooked rice or naan, for serving

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This butter chicken is super creamy and packed with flavor. The spices create a warm, cozy taste that’s hard to resist. It’s definitely a family favorite!

You can make this dish in just 20 minutes, which is awesome when you’re short on time. It’s fast and convenient for any night of the week.

The leftovers store well in the fridge. You can easily reheat them for another meal, making it a great option for meal prep.

How to Make

1. Start by melting butter in a large pan. Add chopped onions and cook until they’re soft and slightly golden.
2. Stir in minced garlic and ginger. Cook for about a minute until fragrant.
3. Add cubed chicken to the pan. Cook until it’s browned on all sides.
4. Sprinkle in garam masala, cumin, paprika, and salt. Stir everything together, cooking for a couple of minutes.
5. Pour in the tomato sauce and give it a good mix. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
6. Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream. Cook until everything is heated through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your butter chicken with rice or naan!

What to Serve With

Try serving this butter chicken with fluffy basmati rice for a filling meal. The rice soaks up the sauce nicely. Naan bread also works well, perfect for scooping up each mouthful.

A side salad can add a fresh crunch to your meal. Simple cucumber and tomato salad complements the flavors of the chicken nicely. Adding yogurt-based dips offers extra creaminess to each bite.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use shrimp, beef, or even tofu if you prefer a different protein. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe has a mild spice level. If you like it spicier, you can add some chili powder or fresh chilies to the sauce.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, you can make butter chicken ahead of time. It stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day!

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Just stir it in gently after cooking.