Main Courses > International Cuisine > Asian Mains > Indian Butter Chicken

Simple Weeknight Butter Chicken

A simplified version of the classic Indian Butter Chicken, perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal. This recipe uses readily available ingredients and reduces the cooking time without compromising on taste.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Servings
4
Ingredients
  • 500 g, cut into bite-sized pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breast
  • 3 tbsp Butter
  • 1 medium, chopped Onion
  • 2 cloves, minced Garlic
  • 1 inch piece, grated Ginger
  • 2 tsp Garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp Cumin powder
  • 500 ml Tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup Heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp Sugar
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • for garnish Fresh cilantro

Sautéing the Aromatics

Melt the butter in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Adding the Spices

Stir in the garam masala, turmeric powder, and cumin powder. Cook for about 30 seconds, until the spices are fragrant and well combined with the onion and garlic.

Cooking the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. Ensure the chicken is no longer pink inside.

Simmering in Tomato Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce, add the sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Finishing Touches

Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve hot with rice or naan bread.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 180kcal
Protein: 18g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 6g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

This nutrition information is an estimation and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Using low-fat cream can reduce the overall fat content. Serve with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

← Seafood Kare-Kare Spicy Indonesian Nasi Goreng with Beef →

FAQ

  • Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

    Yes, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers or peas to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. Add them after the chicken is cooked and simmer them until tender.
  • Can I use coconut milk instead of heavy cream?

    Yes, you can use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. This will also add a slightly different flavor to the dish.
  • How can I thicken the sauce if it's too thin?

    You can thicken the sauce by simmering it uncovered for a few more minutes, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the sauce.
  • Can I store leftovers?

    Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.