If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, you’ll love how quickly you can prepare Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken in your own kitchen. Butter chicken, known as Murgh Makhani in India, is a world-famous dish characterized by its creamy tomato sauce, succulent boneless chicken pieces, and signature blend of spices.
Traditionally simmered for hours to develop deep flavors, our Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken takes a few smart shortcuts while retaining that rich, authentic taste. This modern twist on a classic recipe makes it accessible even on the busiest nights.
The appeal of butter chicken goes beyond its buttery, aromatic sauce; it is beloved for its versatility and the way it complements rice, naan, or even a simple salad.
Using fresh garlic, ginger, and garam masala along with a touch of cream, you can capture the sumptuous essence of this Indian favorite with minimal prep time. Butter chicken’s origins trace back to Delhi in the 1950s when it was invented as a way to use leftover tandoori chicken.
Since then, it’s become a restaurant staple worldwide. Home cooks often seek speed without sacrificing quality, so this recipe streamlines the process for a meal that’s as impressive as it is effortless.
For a deeper dive into the history and evolution of this beloved dish, check out this detailed article from BBC Good Food: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/story-butter-chicken. Ready to bring the aroma of classic Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken into your home? Let’s get cooking.
Ingredients for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, more to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup canned tomato puree
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked basmati rice or naan, for serving
Instructions for Making Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken
- Heat the butter and vegetable oil together in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, sautéing for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside.
- Sprinkle the cumin, coriander, garam masala, chili powder, and turmeric over the chicken and onion mixture. Stir well to coat and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom.
- Pour in the tomato puree, stirring to combine everything. Let simmer for 5 minutes, until the chicken is nearly cooked through and the sauce starts to thicken.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and sugar (if using). Allow the sauce to simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until creamy and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve hot over steamed basmati rice or with warm naan.
Nutritional Information
Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken delivers a balanced mix of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, making it a satisfying main dish.
A typical serving (about 1 cup of chicken with sauce, not including rice or naan) offers approximately 350-400 calories, with 28-30 grams of protein, 20-24 grams of fat (primarily from butter and cream), and 8-10 grams of carbohydrates from the tomato puree and spices.
While the recipe uses heavy cream for richness, you can reduce calories by substituting with light cream or plain Greek yogurt.
Butter chicken is a good source of essential nutrients like vitamin B6, niacin, and phosphorus from the chicken, as well as antioxidants from the spices used, such as turmeric and cumin.
For detailed nutritional breakdowns and portion control tips, consult this trusted resource: https://www.nutritionvalue.org/. If you’re pairing butter chicken with rice or naan, keep in mind that these sides will increase the carbohydrate and calorie count. Moderate consumption is advised for those monitoring their fat or calorie intake.
Using skinless chicken breast instead of thigh meat can further reduce saturated fat levels, aligning this dish with your dietary preferences. When enjoyed in proper portions alongside vegetables or whole grains, Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken can be part of a wholesome, well-rounded meal.
Wine/Beverage Pairings With Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken
When serving Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken, choose beverages that balance its creamy, spiced character. A semi-dry Riesling or Gewürztraminer white wine works beautifully; their slight sweetness and floral notes harmonize with the dish’s rich tomato and cream sauce.
If you prefer red wine, a light-bodied Pinot Noir complements the gentle heat and doesn’t overpower the delicate spices. For beer lovers, reach for a cold lager or a wheat beer, which offer refreshing contrast to the savory sauce.
Non-alcoholic options include classic mango lassi—a cooling, yogurt-based drink perfect for offsetting spice—or sparkling water with a twist of lime for a palate cleanser. Iced herbal teas, such as mint or chamomile, also provide a refreshing and caffeine-free companion to your butter chicken meal.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To make your Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken even more special, consider these helpful tips and convenient variations. First, using chicken thighs instead of breasts will produce a juicier texture, as thigh meat remains tender and succulent during quick cooking.
For extra depth of flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and spices for 15 minutes (if time allows) before cooking. If you're looking to lighten the dish, substitute half-and-half or a splash of coconut milk for heavy cream.
This not only reduces calories but also adds a subtle tropical flavor. For more heat, increase the quantity of chili powder or add a chopped green chili with the onions. Conversely, to make Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken milder, use less chili powder and opt for a sweeter tomato sauce.
Vegan or vegetarian? Swap the chicken for cubed paneer or pressed tofu, and use plant-based butter and coconut cream to replicate the luscious sauce. For busy weeknights, prep chopped onions, garlic, and ginger in advance and store them in an airtight container, ready to toss in your skillet.
Finally, always finish with fresh cilantro for a burst of herbaceous aroma and color. By adjusting spices and ingredients to your preferences, you can enjoy Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken at its flavorful best every time.
Serving Suggestions
Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken is incredibly versatile and lends itself to a variety of serving styles to suit any occasion. For a classic presentation, spoon the creamy chicken over a mound of fluffy basmati rice, allowing the grains to soak up the richly spiced sauce.
Complement this with warm naan or roti, perfect for scooping up every delicious bite. If you want to create a full Indian-inspired meal, pair the butter chicken with sides like cucumber raita, tangy pickled onions, and a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
For a lighter meal, serve the chicken atop a bed of wilted spinach or steamed mixed vegetables, offering extra nutrients and vibrant color. At gatherings, consider presenting Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken family-style in a large serving dish, garnished with a generous shower of chopped cilantro.
Place it alongside bowls of rice, naan, and assorted condiments, encouraging guests to assemble their own plates. If you’re packing leftovers, store the chicken and sauce separate from rice or bread to preserve texture and freshness.
Regardless of method, always finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to brighten flavors just before serving. This dish is sure to impress at any meal, whether it’s a quick weeknight family dinner or part of a celebratory feast.
Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken Health Benefits
While Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken is known for its creamy indulgence, it also offers several health benefits when prepared thoughtfully. Chicken is a lean source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall metabolic function.
Spices like turmeric and cumin contribute antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which can support immune health and digestive well-being. Garlic and ginger, both featured in this recipe, are recognized for their potential to boost immunity and aid in digestion.
By choosing skinless chicken and moderating the amount of butter and cream, you can lower the dish’s saturated fat content while retaining most of its flavor and richness. Incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro adds vitamins A and K along with minerals such as potassium.
For those managing calorie or fat intake, substituting lower-fat dairy or coconut milk and serving the dish with whole-grain rice or extra vegetables can create a more balanced meal.
According to experts at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, integrating lean proteins and a variety of spices into your diet can enhance both taste and nutritional profile: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/protein/. Enjoying Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken as part of a colorful, portion-controlled meal supports dietary variety, making it a smart addition to your home-cooked repertoire.
FAQs About Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken
Can I make Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is easy to prepare in advance. Simply cook the butter chicken as directed, then cool and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even tastier. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce as needed.
How can I make Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute plant-based butter (such as vegan margarine) and coconut cream for the dairy butter and heavy cream. These swaps replicate the luscious texture and flavor while ensuring the dish remains completely dairy-free.
What can I use instead of tomato puree?
If you don’t have tomato puree on hand, crushed canned tomatoes or passata are suitable alternatives. For a thicker, richer sauce, consider blending the tomatoes before adding them to the pan. Adjust the seasoning and simmer time accordingly to reach your desired consistency.
Can Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken be frozen?
Yes, butter chicken freezes well. After cooking and cooling the dish, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove, stirring occasionally and adding a bit of liquid if the sauce thickens.
What are the best sides for Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken?
Classic basmati rice and naan bread are ideal sides. You may also serve it with brown rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad for extra nutrition and texture contrast.
Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken brings the best of Indian restaurant dining to your home kitchen in record time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, casual family meals, or special gatherings, offering a creamy, flavorful dish that consistently wins over both newcomers and lovers of Indian cuisine. By following our step-by-step guide, you can achieve authentic taste and impressive presentation with minimal effort. Thanks to adaptable cooking methods and simple ingredients, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Whether paired with classic sides or creative accompaniments, Easy 20 Minute Butter Chicken promises comfort, satisfaction, and a delightful blend of aromatic spices in every serving.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
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1Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned, about 4 minutes.
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2Add remaining butter, onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Sauté until onions are soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
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3Stir in garam masala, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
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4Pour in tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
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5Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
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6Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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