Easy 20-Minute Butter Chicken
If you love creamy, flavorful curries but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is about to become your go-to weeknight meal! Made with tender skinless chicken breasts, rich tomato sauce, and warm garam masala, this Indian-inspired dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 20 minutes. Serve it with fluffy naan bread or basmati rice for the ultimate cozy comfort meal fast, simple, and absolutely irresistible.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely minced (or use paste)
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾-inch chunks
- 4 tablespoons tomato paste (or one 8 oz can tomato sauce)
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or paprika (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon fenugreek (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream (or sub with half & half or yogurt for a low-fat option)
- Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter with oil. Add diced onions and cook until lightly golden, about 3–4 minutes. Add ginger and garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken breasts, tomato sauce, and spices garam masala, chili powder, fenugreek, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Make it creamy: Pour in the heavy cream and reduce heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and creamy.
- Serve and enjoy: Spoon the butter chicken over hot basmati rice or serve with soft, warm naan bread for the perfect weeknight comfort meal.
Pro Tips
- Lighten It Up: Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or half & half to make this a low-fat version.
- Add Veggies: Toss in some peas or spinach for a boost of color and nutrients.
- Make It Ahead: The flavors get even better the next day perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 serving | 491 | 39g | 9g | 33g | 2g | 3g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients and preparation methods. Please consult a professional for precise dietary advice.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a fantastic substitute and stay extra tender in the creamy tomato sauce.
2. How can I make this butter chicken spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra chili powder for a bold kick.
3. What should I serve with butter chicken?
It’s perfect with naan bread, steamed white rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.
Conclusion
This Quick & Easy Homemade Butter Chicken is rich, creamy, and bursting with bold Indian flavors all in just 20 minutes! With pantry staples like tomato sauce, garam masala, and chicken breasts, you can whip up a comforting, restaurant-worthy dinner any night of the week. Whether you pair it with naan bread or rice, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy every craving.