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A vibrant bowls of homemade butter chicken featuring creamy orange sauce with tender chicken pieces garnished with fresh cilantro, served alongside fluffy white rice on a rustic wooden table styled with a lime wedge and aromatic spices, evoking a warm and inviting dinner scene.

Simple and Tasty Butter Chicken Recipe for Busy Nights

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This quick and easy butter chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken simmered in a creamy, flavorful tomato-based sauce garnished with fresh herbs.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
  2. Add garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
  3. Stir in tomato sauce, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Add chicken pieces to the sauce, cook until no longer pink and sauce thickens.
  5. Pour in heavy cream, stir well, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken with shrimp or vegetables for variety.
  • Adjust chili powder for spice level.
  • For a thicker sauce, simmer longer or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian-inspired
  • Diet: Nut-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 560 Kcal
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: Thirty grams
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 45g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg