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Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken

This Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken is a quick, flavorful dinner that will impress everyone!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon oil For sautéing.
  • 1 tablespoon butter Adds richness to the sauce.
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger finely minced or grated
  • 2-3 cloves garlic finely minced or crushed
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 4 tablespoons tomato paste For a rich tomato flavor, or use an 8 oz can of tomato sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala The aromatic spice blend that defines the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder or paprika Adjust for desired heat level.
  • 1 teaspoon fenugreek optional, for a unique flavor, use powder or seeds.
  • 1 teaspoon cumin Adds earthiness.
  • 1 teaspoon salt To enhance all the flavors.
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper For a subtle kick.
  • 1 cup heavy cream For a luscious finish; can sub for half & half or yogurt for lower fat.
  • to taste Hot cooked rice for serving
  • to taste naan for serving

Instructions

  • Start by dicing the onion, mincing the garlic and ginger, and cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process smooth and quick.
  • In a large skillet, heat the oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Then, stir in the minced ginger and garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Add the chicken chunks to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the onion and spice mixture. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
  • Once the chicken is cooked, add the tomato paste (or sauce), garam masala, chili powder (or paprika), fenugreek (if using), cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together, allowing the chicken to soak up those vibrant flavors for about 2 minutes.
  • Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring until well combined. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly and meld the flavors together.
  • Serve your Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken over hot cooked rice or with warm naan. Enjoy the rich and creamy sauce with every bite!

Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Pan
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Serving bowls

Notes

  • Feel free to add more vegetables to this dish, such as bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili powder or add some crushed red pepper flakes.
  • This dish can be made ahead of time and reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep.