Name: 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken
Prep time: PT-483759H3M37S
Cook time: PT-483759H3M37S
Total time: PT-483759H3M37S
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (diced); 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 onion (finely diced); 4 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated); 1 tsp garam masala; ½ tsp turmeric; ½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste); 1 cup tomato purée; ½ cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tsp sugar; Salt (to taste); Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Introduction

Imagine sinking your fork into tender chicken bathed in a velvety tomato-cream sauce, fragrant with spices like garam masala and turmeric. No, this isn’t a takeout fantasy—it’s 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken, a recipe so quick and flavorful, it’ll become your weeknight hero. Legend has it that Butter Chicken was born in a Delhi restaurant kitchen as a clever way to reuse leftover tandoori chicken. Today, it’s a global comfort food icon, and this version skips the marinating time without skimping on flavor!

Why choose this recipe? It’s simpler than your favorite curry takeout (and cheaper!), family-friendly, and ready faster than you can binge a sitcom episode. If you loved my One-Pot Chicken Tikka Masala, you’ll adore this recipe—it’s creamier, quicker, and equally foolproof. Ready to ditch bland dinners? Let’s turn your stovetop into a flavor factory!

What is Butter Chicken?

Why Butter Chicken? Is it because you’ll want to slather it on everything? Or because it’s so rich, even your picky eater will beg for seconds? The name actually comes from its silky sauce, where butter and cream meet smoky spices and tangy tomatoes. Think of it as a warm hug from your skillet—comforting, indulgent, and impossible to resist.

Fun fact: Some say the original recipe used leftover tandoori chicken dunked in spiced tomato gravy. We’re skipping the grill (and the wait!) but keeping the soul. As the saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—but honestly, this dish wins over everyone. Ready to make magic? Let’s cook!

Why You’ll Love This Butter Chicken

1️⃣ Creamy Sauce That’s Better Than Takeout
No watered-down sauces here! Simmered with garlic, ginger, and spices, this tomato-cream base clings to every bite of chicken.

2️⃣ Cheaper (and Healthier!) Than Delivery
Skip the markup! Homemade Butter Chicken costs half as much, and you control the salt, cream, and spice levels.

3️⃣ Toppings That Make It Shine
Finish with fresh cilantro, a swirl of cream, or a squeeze of lemon. Pair with fluffy basmati rice or garlic naan for the ultimate meal.

Love slow-cooked curries? Try my Coconut Lentil Dahl next! But for nights when time’s tight, this Butter Chicken is your golden ticket. Hungry yet? Let’s get cooking!

How to Make 30-Minute Butter Chicken

Quick Overview

This dish is fast, foolproof, and freezer-friendly. Sauté chicken, simmer the sauce, and combine! Ready in 30 minutes, with a sauce so good, you’ll lick the spoon.

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins

Key Ingredients

Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless thighs (juicier than breasts!)
Aromatics: 1 onion (diced), 4 garlic cloves, 1 tbsp fresh ginger
Spices: 1 tsp garam masala, ½ tsp turmeric, ½ tsp chili powder
Sauce: 1 cup tomato purée, ½ cup heavy cream, 2 tbsp butter
Extras: 1 tsp sugar, salt, cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet. Cook diced chicken thighs until golden (5 mins). Set aside.

2️⃣ Build the Sauce
In the same pan, sauté onions until soft. Add garlic, ginger, and spices—toast for 1 minute until fragrant.

3️⃣ Simmer & Creamify
Stir in tomato purée, sugar, and ½ cup water. Simmer 10 mins. Add cream, butter, and chicken. Cook 5 mins.

4️⃣ Finish Strong
Taste for salt. Garnish with cilantro. Serve with naan or rice!

What to Serve With Butter Chicken

Basmati Rice: Fluffy and fragrant.
Garlic Naan: Perfect for scooping sauce.
Cucumber Raita: Cool yogurt dip to balance the heat.
Mango Lassi: Sweet, creamy drink for contrast.

Top Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken

Swap It: Use coconut milk for cream to make it dairy-free.
Spice Control: Add cayenne for heat or omit for kids.
Don’t Rush: Let the sauce simmer—it thickens and deepens in flavor!
Freeze Smart: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Storing & Reheating Tips

Fridge: Keep in airtight container for 3-4 days.
Reheat: Warm on stove with a splash of water or cream to revive the sauce.
Freeze: Portion into containers (sauce may separate slightly—just stir when reheating!).

🌟 Ready to Taste the Magic?
This Butter Chicken isn’t just dinner—it’s a flavor adventure that’ll make your kitchen smell like a gourmet restaurant. Whether you’re a curry newbie or a spice veteran, this recipe promises juicy chicken, luscious sauce, and bragging rights. Grab that skillet and let’s make tonight unforgettable!