Name: Quick and Easy Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground turmeric; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Quick and Easy Butter Chicken is a dish that dances on your taste buds, a delightful explosion of spices and creamy goodness! Picture tender chunks of chicken enveloped in a luscious, buttery sauce that smells heavenly. Indulge in apple blondies Just thinking about it makes my mouth water and my heart do the cha-cha. Whether you’re whipping this up for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a gathering, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

You might be wondering why this Quick and Easy Butter Chicken is the superhero of weeknight meals. Well, let me take you back to my first attempt at making this dish. I was armed with enthusiasm but utterly clueless. The kitchen turned into my personal episode of “Nailed It!”—flour flying everywhere, spice jars toppled over, and yet, somehow, what emerged was pure magic. Perfectly paired with rice or naan, this dish transforms any mundane evening into an aromatic feast worthy of a Bollywood musical number!

Why You'll Love This Quick and Easy Butter Chicken

This amazing Quick and Easy Butter Chicken offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Ingredients for Quick and Easy Butter Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Quick and Easy Butter Chicken: Delicious pumpkin cupcakes.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Typically, 3-4 chicken breasts work well, but feel free to adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for the best flavor; trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and spice; opt for a small knob that’s firm to touch.
Canned Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes as they form the base of the sauce—make sure they’re ripe for maximum flavor.

For the Sauce:

Butter: Unsalted butter works best because it allows you to control the seasoning while adding richness.
Heavy Cream: This creamy delight transforms your sauce into an indulgent experience—you deserve it!
Spices (Garam Masala, Cumin, Turmeric): These spices are essential for authentic flavor; don’t skimp on them!
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your preferences.

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 Quick and Easy Butter Chicken: For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Amish Country Casserole recipe.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season them with salt and pepper. This step is crucial because no one wants bland chicken ruining their culinary masterpiece!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt about three tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Let those aromatic beauties cook until fragrant—about one minute. Your kitchen will smell like a fancy restaurant! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add your seasoned chicken to the skillet. Sauté until it’s browned on all sides—this should take around five minutes. You want those juices locked in so that each bite bursts with flavor!

Step 4: Add Tomatoes & Spices

Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes along with garam masala, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about ten minutes until thickened—don’t forget to taste along the way; it’s important work!

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Reduce heat to low before stirring in the heavy cream until fully combined. Let it simmer gently for another five minutes so all those flavors marry beautifully.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your glorious creation onto plates or bowls over steamed rice or with warm naan bread on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro if you like—a little green never hurt anyone!

Now sit back as you bask in compliments from family or friends who think you’ve been secretly taking cooking classes!

And there you have it: your very own Quick and Easy Butter Chicken ready to tantalize taste buds! Enjoy every mouthful while reveling in knowing you whipped up something truly special without breaking a sweat—or your bank account!

You Must Know About Quick and Easy Butter Chicken

This amazing Quick and Easy Butter Chicken offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting Quick and Easy Butter Chicken Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then cook your aromatic spices and tomatoes in the same pan. While the sauce simmers, prepare your rice or naan for a complete meal.

Add Your Touch to Quick and Easy Butter Chicken

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or paneer for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different spices like garam masala or smoked paprika to give your dish a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating Quick and Easy Butter Chicken

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so slowly over low heat to keep the chicken tender and juicy.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Quick and Easy Butter Chicken

1.
Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer sauce that enhances flavors beautifully. 2.
Marinating the chicken overnight adds depth, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. 3.
Always taste your sauce before serving; adjusting seasoning can make all the difference!

I once made this Quick and Easy Butter Chicken for a potluck, and it disappeared faster than I could say “naan.” Everyone raved about it, especially my friend who claimed it was better than takeout!

FAQs About Quick and Easy Butter Chicken

What is Quick and Easy Butter Chicken?

Quick and Easy Butter Chicken is a simplified version of the traditional Indian dish, known for its creamy tomato sauce and tender chicken pieces. This recipe allows you to enjoy the rich flavors of butter chicken without spending hours in the kitchen. By using readily available ingredients, you can prepare this dish in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Explore more delicious recipes The result is a deliciously spiced meal that pairs wonderfully with rice or naan, offering a taste of Indian cuisine that everyone can enjoy.

How do I make Quick and Easy Butter Chicken at home?

To make Quick and Easy Butter Chicken at home, start by marinating chicken pieces in yogurt and spices for added flavor. Sauté onions and garlic in butter, then add tomatoes and heavy cream to create a rich sauce. Cook the marinated chicken until tender and mix it into the sauce. Easy oven-baked frittata Serve your butter chicken over rice or with naan bread. This method ensures that you get authentic flavors in a fraction of the time compared to traditional recipes.

Can I customize Quick and Easy Butter Chicken?

Absolutely! You can customize Quick and Easy Butter Chicken to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. If you prefer spicier dishes, increase the amount of chili powder or add fresh green chilies. For a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken breast instead of thighs. Adjusting the creaminess level by using coconut milk instead of heavy cream is also an excellent way to give this dish a unique twist.

What can I serve with Quick and Easy Butter Chicken?

Quick and Easy Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with various sides. Traditional options include basmati rice or naan bread, which help soak up the rich sauce. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a simple cucumber salad for added freshness. If you’re looking for something different, try serving it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that complements the dish’s flavors perfectly.

Conclusion for Quick and Easy Butter Chicken

In conclusion, Quick and Easy Butter Chicken offers a delightful way to enjoy classic Indian flavors in less time. This recipe is not only simple but also adaptable to different tastes and dietary requirements. Whether you choose to serve it with rice or naan, this dish will surely impress your family or guests alike. Embrace this easy cooking method to bring authentic taste into your kitchen without any hassle, making meals enjoyable every day.