Description
This 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken is a quick and easy take on the classic Indian dish, featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce with a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, this flavorful recipe brings the vibrant taste of Indian cuisine to your table in just 30 minutes. Ideal for those craving a delicious homemade meal without the long cooking time.
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
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)
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
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the Spices: Stir in garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Make the Sauce: Add tomato sauce and stir to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk, yogurt, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine and Serve: Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or naan.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free yogurt.
Adjust the spice level by modifying or omitting the cayenne pepper according to your taste preference.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
Keywords: Indian Butter Chicken, Stovetop Butter Chicken, Quick Indian Recipes, Easy Butter Chicken, 30-Minute Indian Dinner