Introduction to Easy Butter Chicken
When life gets busy, dinner can often feel like a daunting task. Enter easy butter chicken—the comforting and delicious solution that's ready in just 30 minutes! This dish has become a staple for busy professionals who crave a home-cooked meal without the long prep and cooking times. Instead of relying on takeout after a chaotic day, why not whip up this flavorful, creamy dish that rivals anything from your favorite Indian restaurant?
The magic of this easy butter chicken lies in its simplicity. With basic ingredients and a handful of spices, you can create a rich and satisfying meal that not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the soul. According to a survey by the Food Marketing Institute, over 70% of adults prefer cooking at home because it allows them to control what they eat, making this recipe a perfect fit!
Imagine serving this delightful dish to your family or friends, sharing stories, and creating memories—all while enjoying the tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen. It's a heartwarming meal that brings everyone together, even on the busiest nights. Want to discover just how easy it can be? Let’s dive into the full recipe!
Ingredients for Easy Butter Chicken
Basic ingredients you'll need
Making easy butter chicken begins with a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Gather these essentials to whip up this mouthwatering dish in no time:
- Butter: The key to a rich, authentic taste.
- Yellow onions: Approximately two, roughly chopped for sweetness and depth.
- Ginger and garlic: Three tablespoons of chopped ginger and six cloves of crushed garlic offer a fragrant base.
- Canned tomatoes: One 28-ounce can of crushed or diced tomatoes adds acidity.
- Chicken: A pound of bite-sized chicken breasts or thighs ensures tender pieces in every bite.
- Whipping cream: Half a cup to create that creamy texture (feel free to swap with yogurt or coconut milk).
- Almond butter: A couple of tablespoons help thicken the sauce and adds nuttiness.
The spices that make it pop
The secret to a memorable butter chicken lies in the blend of spices that give it warmth and character. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Garam masala: One tablespoon is a must for that signature flavor.
- Ground turmeric, coriander, cumin, and chili powder: Each contributes its unique essence, with one teaspoon of turmeric, coriander, and cumin, plus a teaspoon of chili powder for a hint of heat.
- Cardamom pods: Use about four, discarding the pods while keeping the seeds to infuse a delightful aroma.
For more tips on choosing the right spices, check out this guide on spices to enhance your cooking skills! Enjoy your journey into creating easy butter chicken at home.
Preparing Easy Butter Chicken
Making easy butter chicken doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious and hearty dish on the table in about 30 minutes. Let’s break it down step by step!
Gather all your ingredients
Before you dive into cooking, it’s essential to gather everything you’ll need. Here’s a quick checklist for your easy butter chicken recipe:
- Butter (2 tablespoons)
- Yellow onions (2, roughly chopped)
- Ginger (3 tablespoons, chopped)
- Garlic (6 cloves, crushed)
- Canned tomatoes (28 ounces)
- Chicken (1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Water (1 cup)
- Whipping cream (½ cup; feel free to substitute with plain yogurt or coconut milk)
- Almond butter (2 tablespoons)
- Coconut sugar (2-4 tablespoons, or substitute brown sugar)
- Sea salt (to taste)
- Cilantro (for serving)
For the spices, don’t forget:
- Garam masala (1 tablespoon)
- Ground turmeric (1 teaspoon)
- Ground coriander (1 teaspoon)
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon)
- Cardamom pods (4, seeds only)
Now that you have everything, you’re ready to start cooking!
Sauté the aromatics
Begin by heating the butter in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the chopped onions, ginger, and crushed garlic. Allow them to cook for about 8-10 minutes until they are nicely browned. This is crucial for developing layers of flavor in your butter chicken—don’t rush this step!
Add and toast the spices
While the aromatics are cooking, you can prep your spices. In a small bowl, mix together your garlic masala, turmeric, coriander, cumin, chili powder, and cardamom seeds. Once your onions, ginger, and garlic are golden, sprinkle the spice blend into the pan and stir it for about 1 minute. This helps to toast the spices, releasing their aromatic oils for a fuller flavor.
Blend for a smooth sauce
Next, pour the 28-ounce can of tomatoes into the pan, making sure to scrape any bits stuck to the bottom. This little action packs in lots of flavor! Transfer the entire mixture to a blender and blend on high until smooth. If you want to learn some blending tips, check out this guide.
Simmer the chicken to perfection
Return the blended sauce to the pan and add the chicken pieces along with 1 cup of water. Bring this to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and let it cook for about 10 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Stir in the cream and almond butter
Now, here comes the creamy goodness! Stir in the whipping cream and almond butter. This will give your easy butter chicken its rich, velvety texture. If you prefer a lighter option, no worries! Just opt for yogurt or coconut milk as a substitution.
Final touches and seasoning
Before serving, taste your butter chicken and add sea salt to your liking. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it hot, alongside rice and naan, and enjoy!
That’s it! You’ve just prepared a delicious easy butter chicken that rivals any restaurant’s dish—all in just 30 minutes! Happy cooking!
Variations of Easy Butter Chicken
Vegetarian-friendly Options
If you're looking to enjoy easy butter chicken without the meat, you can easily swap out chicken for hearty vegetables like cauliflower, potatoes, or chickpeas. These ingredients will absorb the delightful flavors of the sauce, making for a satisfying plant-based dish. For creaminess, consider using coconut milk or cashew cream, both of which complement the spices beautifully. Check out this guide on vegetarian substitutes for more ideas on how to enhance your cooking.
Spice Level Adjustments for Your Taste
Customizing the spice level in your easy butter chicken is a breeze! To dial down the heat, simply reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the cardamom seeds. On the other hand, if you crave more heat, consider adding fresh chopped green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper. Remember, cooking is about experimenting—so don’t be afraid to adjust the spices until it suits your palate!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Butter Chicken
Choosing the Right Proteins
When making easy butter chicken, the choice of protein is key. Chicken thighs are ideal for their juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts work perfectly as well if you prefer leaner meat. If you want to switch things up, consider using shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Each option brings its unique texture and taste!
Flavor Hacks for Deepening the Taste
For an extra depth of flavor in your easy butter chicken, try adding a splash of lemon juice or a hint of smoked paprika. Fresh herbs like cilantro not only enhance flavor but add a vibrant finish. Experimenting with spices can elevate the dish, too—don’t be afraid to adjust the heat with chili powder or add a touch of cinnamon for warmth.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Butter Chicken
What to pair with your butter chicken
When serving your easy butter chicken, consider pairing it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan to soak up the delicious sauce. For a wholesome twist, try quinoa or cauliflower rice; both options are nutritious and will complement the dish beautifully.
Creative serving ideas beyond rice
Feeling adventurous? Consider using your easy butter chicken as a filling for savory wraps using lettuce leaves or tortillas. You can also serve it over a bed of roasted vegetables for a colorful and healthy meal. Adding a side of fresh salad, perhaps with cucumbers and tomatoes, adds a refreshing crunch. Enhance the experience with a bowl of cooling raita or mango chutney on the side to balance the flavors.
For more tips on pairing dishes, check out resources like Serious Eats or BBC Good Food.
Time Breakdown for Easy Butter Chicken
Preparation time
In just 10 minutes, you'll have everything chopped, measured, and ready to go. This quick prep will set you up for a seamless cooking experience.
Cooking time
The cooking magic happens in 20 minutes! That’s when all the flavors meld beautifully, and your kitchen will fill with the rich, inviting aroma of easy butter chicken.
Total time from start to finish
In just 30 minutes, you will have a delicious meal ready to serve. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to a homemade dish that your family will crave!
For more tips on meal prep and time management in the kitchen, check out this article on efficient cooking techniques.
Nutritional Facts for Easy Butter Chicken
Calories and Macronutrients
This delicious Easy Butter Chicken recipe provides approximately 345 calories per serving, perfect for a hearty meal without excessive calories. Each serving contains:
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 19g (with 8g saturated fat)
These balanced macros make it a satisfying option for both fitness enthusiasts and busy professionals.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
The ingredients in this easy butter chicken are not just flavorful but also packed with health benefits:
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and maintenance.
- Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which supports heart health.
- Ginger and Garlic: Known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, these ingredients enhance flavor while providing health benefits.
- Almond Butter: Offers healthy fats and vitamin E, which are beneficial for skin health.
For more on the benefits of these nutritious ingredients, check out Healthline’s detailed insights. Integrating this easy recipe into your weeknight rotation can elevate your meal prep game while nourishing your body.
FAQs about Easy Butter Chicken
What can I use as a substitute for almond butter?
If almond butter isn't available, you can easily swap it out for cashew butter, which offers a similar creamy texture and flavor profile. Alternatively, peanut butter can work too—just be mindful of the strong taste it brings. If allergies are a concern, try sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
How can I make it dairy-free?
To enjoy this easy butter chicken recipe without dairy, simply replace the whipping cream with coconut milk or use a dairy-free cream alternative. You can even opt for a thick plant-based yogurt to keep the recipe creamy while avoiding dairy.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you're in a pinch and only have frozen chicken, just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. As the chicken cooks, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. Cooking from frozen can also help keep the dish juicy!
Conclusion on Easy Butter Chicken
Why this recipe will change your weeknight dinners
In just 30 minutes, this easy butter chicken recipe transforms your weeknight meals from mundane to memorable. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a flavorful dish that rivals your favorite takeout. Say goodbye to ordering in, and hello to great homemade dinners that bring the family together!
This easy butter chicken dish is not just quick but also customizable—you can swap out ingredients or adjust spices to suit your taste. Perfect for busy professionals, it ensures you enjoy a hearty meal without the hassle. For more meal inspiration, check out this guide on quick weeknight dinners. Enjoy cooking and savor the moments shared around the table!
Easy Butter Chicken (30 minute recipe!)
Equipment
- frying pan
- blender
Ingredients
The Curry
- 2 tablespoons butter see notes
- 2 yellow onions onions roughly chopped
- 3 tablespoons ginger chopped
- 6 cloves garlic crushed
- 28 ounce crushed or diced tomatoes
- 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup whipping cream or plain yogurt or coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons almond butter see notes
- 2-4 tablespoons coconut sugar can sub brown sugar
- sea salt to taste - I like about 2 teaspoons
- cilantro to serve
The Spices
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 cardamom pods cardamom pods seeds only - discard the pods
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Heat the butter in a large-sized frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion, ginger, and garlic and cook for about 8-10 minutes, until well-browned, reducing the heat if necessary.
- While the onion cooks, place the spices in a small bowl.
- Add the spices to the pan and cook for 1 minute to remove their raw flavor. Pour the can of tomatoes into the pan and scrape the bottom to remove any bits that are stuck to the pan.
- Transfer the sauce to a blender and blend on high until smooth.
- Return the sauce to the pan, add the chicken and water, and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let the chicken cook for 10 minutes, until it is fully cooked.
- Stir in the cream, almond butter, and coconut sugar. Season to taste with sea salt.
- Serve with rice (and if you have it, naan) with some cilantro on top.
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