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30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

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4.2 from 55 reviews

This 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken recipe offers a creamy, richly spiced dish made with tender chicken pieces simmered in a buttery tomato-based sauce. Perfectly balanced with garam masala, ginger, and garlic, this comforting Indian classic is quick to prepare and best served with basmati rice or warm naan.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Butter

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Aromatics

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

Spices

  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Sauce

  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish and Serving

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on the outside and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add the Spices: Stir in the garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, paprika, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook for about 1 minute to toast the spices, which enhances their flavors.
  4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and stir everything together. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Then stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk, plain yogurt, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
  5. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet and simmer the entire mixture for another 5 minutes to ensure the chicken is fully coated and flavors develop. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or warm naan.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier texture.
  • For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk and omit the yogurt or use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spiciness of the dish.
  • Butter chicken is traditionally served with basmati rice or naan bread.
  • Make sure to toast the spices briefly to release their full aroma and flavor.

Keywords: Indian butter chicken, stovetop butter chicken, easy butter chicken recipe, quick Indian dinner, creamy chicken curry

Find it online: https://foodiecara.com/30-minute-stovetop-indian-butter-chicken-recipe/