Craving the rich, creamy goodness of delicacy food inspired by Indian cuisine but short on time? This 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken is the perfect solution. Packed with aromatic spices and a creamy tomato-based sauce, this quick and easy recipe will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of India. The tender chicken simmered in a luscious sauce makes it a comfort meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful—ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra 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:
1. 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 from the skillet and set aside.
2. 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 another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Spices:
Stir in garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Let the spices toast for 1 minute to release their full flavor.
4. Make the Sauce:
Add tomato sauce and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk, yogurt, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer for another 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with basmati rice or naan bread.
Serving Tips:
- Garnish Generously: Top your butter chicken with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of garam masala can add extra brightness.
- Pair with Traditional Sides: Serve with fluffy basmati rice, soft naan, or roti to soak up the rich, creamy sauce.
- Add a Side Salad: A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad or a cooling raita (yogurt sauce) is the perfect accompaniment to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Let the dish cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
- Freezing: Freeze the butter chicken for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.
- Reheating: Add a splash of water or extra cream to thin out the sauce when reheating. Warm gently to prevent the chicken from drying out.
FAQs:
- Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, though boneless pieces cook faster and are easier to work with. If using bone-in, adjust the cooking time and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). - How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Swap the butter with a plant-based option like olive oil or margarine. - How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder dish, skip the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount. For more heat, add extra cayenne or red chili powder, adjusting to taste. - Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the butter chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little water or cream if needed.
Conclusion:
This 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken is a must-try for anyone seeking delicacy food that is both comforting and flavorful. With tender chicken and a creamy, spiced sauce, it’s a dish that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether for a busy weeknight or a special treat, this recipe will become a favorite in your cooking rotation!