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30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

4.8 from 11 reviews

A quick and flavorful recipe for 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken that is rich in spices and creamy sauce, perfect for a delicious weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for 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 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 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add the Spices – Stir in garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  4. Make the Sauce – Add tomato sauce and stir to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk, yogurt, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Combine and Serve – Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or naan.

Nutrition

Keywords: Indian Butter Chicken, Stovetop Recipe, Quick Dinner, Creamy Chicken