Introduction
I don’t always have an hour to cook dinner, but I still want something that tastes like it simmered all day. That’s where this 30-minute stovetop Indian butter chicken comes in. One evening, I had a sudden craving for that warm, creamy, spiced flavor, but the clock was ticking. I pulled out my skillet, simplified my usual recipe, and crossed my fingers. Thirty minutes later, I was sitting down to a rich, comforting dish that hit every flavor note I was looking for. Since then, this quick butter chicken has become my secret weapon for busy nights. It’s one of those meals that feels luxurious and homemade—without keeping you in the kitchen all night.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile
This stovetop butter chicken works beautifully over rice, with naan, or even stuffed into wraps. You can adjust the spice level, swap in other proteins, or throw in a handful of veggies.
Budget-Friendly
All of the ingredients are affordable, and many are already in your pantry or fridge. There’s no need for store-bought sauces—just a few basic spices, tomatoes, and cream.
Ingredients for the Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this quick butter chicken for four:
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Chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless) – Cut into bite-sized pieces.
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Plain yogurt (¼ cup) – Optional but helps tenderize the chicken quickly.
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Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
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Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, grated)
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Onion (1 small, finely chopped)
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Tomato purée or crushed tomatoes (1 cup)
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Heavy cream (½ cup) – For that classic rich, buttery texture.
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Butter (2 tablespoons) – Use unsalted for better control of seasoning.
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Garam masala (1½ teaspoons)
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Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
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Paprika (1 teaspoon)
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Turmeric (½ teaspoon)
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Salt and pepper – To taste.
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Optional: chili flakes – For a touch of heat.
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Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
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Optional: chicken ham (finely diced) – Adds extra depth if desired.
How to Make This Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Marinade (Optional)
If you have time, marinate the chicken pieces in the plain yogurt with a pinch of salt and half the grated ginger and minced garlic. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients. This helps tenderize the chicken and adds extra flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinade and cook the chicken directly.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions, Garlic, and Ginger
Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir often to prevent browning. Add the remaining minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Spices
Sprinkle in the garam masala, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, and chili flakes if you want a little heat. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds so the spices release their aroma without burning.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken pieces (or plain chicken if you skipped marinating) to the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spices and onion mixture. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken starts to brown and is nearly cooked through.
Step 5: Add Tomato Purée and Simmer
Pour in the tomato purée or crushed tomatoes. Stir everything together. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 8 to 10 minutes. The sauce will thicken, and the chicken will finish cooking through.
Step 6: Stir in Butter and Cream
Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce has thickened, stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the heavy cream. Mix gently to combine. Allow the curry to simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes on low heat. This creates a rich, velvety texture.
Step 7: Add Chicken Ham (Optional)
If using chicken ham, stir in the finely diced pieces now. Let them heat through for a couple of minutes to infuse their smoky flavor into the sauce.
Step 8: Season and Garnish
Taste the butter chicken and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a bright, fresh finish.
Step 9: Serve
Serve this butter chicken immediately over steamed basmati rice, warm naan, or even with your favorite flatbread. The sauce is thick and flavorful, perfect for soaking up with every bite.
Quick and Easy
This stovetop butter chicken recipe is designed to deliver big flavor in minimal time. Marinating is optional, and the entire cooking process takes just about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want comfort food fast without sacrificing taste.
Customizable
Feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your family or guests. Omit the chili flakes for a milder version, or add more if you like it spicy. You can swap chicken for turkey bacon for a smoky twist or add vegetables like peas or spinach in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
This recipe is forgiving and flexible, so it’s easy to make it your own.
Perfect for Guests
Despite its simplicity, this butter chicken always impresses. The rich, creamy sauce paired with tender chicken looks fantastic on the plate and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. You can prepare the sauce in advance and add freshly cooked chicken just before serving for a stress-free dinner party.
Pair with fragrant rice, crisp cucumber salad, or a refreshing yogurt raita for a well-rounded meal.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I skip marinating the chicken?
Yes, you can cook the chicken directly without marinating. Marinating adds tenderness and flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without it.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs stay juicier and more flavorful. Just make sure they’re cut into uniform pieces to cook evenly.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use full-fat coconut milk or plain Greek yogurt as dairy-free or lighter alternatives. When using yogurt, add it slowly off the heat to prevent curdling.
Is this recipe spicy?
It’s mildly spiced by default. You can adjust the chili flakes or omit them entirely for a milder dish suitable for kids.
Can I freeze leftover butter chicken?
Yes, butter chicken freezes well. Cool completely, store in airtight containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Peas, spinach, or bell peppers are great additions. Add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking to keep their texture and color.