Easy Butter Chicken Recipe in 30 Minutes

Growing up, my aunt had a knack for turning simple ingredients into mouthwatering meals. Her Butter Chicken Recipe was a family favorite, and I’ve recreated it in just 30 minutes! This quick and easy version retains all the rich flavors, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the fuss.

Reasons to Love Butter Chicken Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Rich and Flavorful: Packed with spices that make every bite delicious.
• Family-Friendly: It is mild enough for kids, but you can adjust the heat to suit your taste.
• Versatile: Serve with rice, naan, or your favorite side.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) tomato puree
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions for Butter Chicken Recipe

Ready to dive into making this delicious Butter Chicken Recipe? Follow these simple steps to whip up a flavorful dish in just 30 minutes. Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. When the chicken is added, marinade it and cook it till browned all over. Take out and place aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and sauté it until it becomes tender. Add the ginger and garlic and heat for a further minute.

Step 4: Simmer with Tomatoes

Pour in the tomato puree and bring to a simmer. Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it cook for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Butter

Reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream and butter, and let it simmer for another 5 minutes—season with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Garnish

Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top before serving.

Helpful Tips

• Marinate Longer: If you have time, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavors.
• Control the Heat: Adjust the chili powder to make it spicier or milder.
• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices make a big difference in taste. Check your pantry!

Easy Ingredient Replacements

• Chicken Thighs: Substitute with chicken breast for a leaner option.
• Heavy Cream: Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Tomato Puree: Crushed tomatoes or fresh tomato sauce work well too.

Final Thoughts

This Butter Chicken Recipe brings warmth and flavor to your table in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned pro, this dish is a surefire hit. Enjoy it with family or impress guests with minimal effort!

Frequently Asked Questions