30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken: Quick & Delicious

Name: 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 15 oz canned tomato puree; 1 cup coconut milk; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tsp garam masala; Salt and pepper to taste

By Lisa

September 20, 2025

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There’s something magical about the aroma of spices filling the air, especially when it’s a captivating 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken. Picture this: tender chicken simmering in a rich, creamy tomato sauce that dances on your taste buds like it just won a Bollywood dance-off. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to twirl around your kitchen as if you’re the star of your own cooking show!

Now, let me take you on a little journey down memory lane. I remember the first time I tried making butter chicken — I was in my tiny apartment with a questionable collection of pots and pans, trying to impress my friends for dinner. Spoiler alert: there was more laughter than culinary prowess that night. But after a few trials and errors, I cracked the code! This delightful dish has become my go-to for impressing guests and treating myself on cozy nights in.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken is quick and easy, making weeknight dinners a breeze
The flavor explosion of spices and creaminess will leave everyone asking for seconds
It’s visually stunning with its rich red color and garnished with fresh herbs, making it perfect for entertaining
Plus, it pairs beautifully with rice or naan for ultimate versatility!

Ingredients for 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: You’ll want about 1 pound of chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Fresh Garlic: Use at least four cloves of garlic; they add depth and aroma that make everything better.
Fresh Ginger: A tablespoon of grated ginger gives it that authentic kick; opt for fresh over powdered whenever possible.
Canned Tomato Puree: One can (about 15 ounces) creates the base of the sauce; buy organic for bonus points!

For the Sauce:

Coconut Milk: One cup adds creaminess without being too heavy; feel free to use full-fat or light based on preference.
Butter: About two tablespoons will give richness to the sauce; don’t skimp here!
Garam Masala: This spice blend is essential; grab two teaspoons to bring out those warm flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken

How to Make 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring until fragrant and golden—this usually takes about one minute but feels like an eternity when you’re eagerly waiting!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Toss in your chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown on all sides for about five minutes. Don’t worry if one or two pieces get a little crispy; we love that extra flavor!

Step 3: Add Tomato Puree

Pour in your canned tomato puree along with garam masala. Stir well to coat all those yummy chicken pieces in sauce magic! Let it simmer gently for another five minutes while you fantasize about how great dinner will be.

Step 4: Create Creamy Goodness

Add coconut milk into the mix and let it bubble away for another five minutes. This step is where things get ultra-creamy! Adjust seasoning as needed—don’t be shy to sprinkle some extra salt or garam masala!

Step 5: Final Touches

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro—this not only adds color but also brightness! Serve hot over fluffy rice or alongside warm naan bread.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Get ready for compliments from family or friends who might think you’ve been hiding your culinary skills all along!

And there you have it—a delightful journey into creating your very own comforting bowl of Indian butter chicken in just thirty minutes! So grab your ingredients, put on some fun music, and let’s cook up something deliciously memorable together!

You Must Know

This 30-minute stovetop Indian butter chicken recipe offers a delightful blend of spices and creamy goodness
It’s not just about the taste; it makes weeknight dinners quick and easy
You can serve it with rice or naan for a complete meal, and it’s sure to impress your family or guests with its vibrant flavors

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices while you prepare your other ingredients. Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then simmer it in the spiced tomato sauce, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your 30-minute stovetop Indian butter chicken! Swap out chicken for paneer or tofu for a vegetarian twist. Add extra spices like garam masala or toss in some vegetables like bell peppers for added texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore that creamy texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfecting your 30-minute stovetop Indian butter chicken, always use fresh spices for maximum flavor
Avoid overcrowding the pan when searing to ensure even cooking
Lastly, let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking; this enhances the flavors!

It was during a family gathering when I first made this dish. My Aunt Rita declared it “life-changing,” and I couldn’t help but beam with pride as everyone went back for seconds.

FAQs :

What is 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken?

30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a rich, creamy tomato sauce. This dish captures the essence of traditional Indian butter chicken but can be prepared in just half an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How can I make 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken healthier?

To make a healthier version of 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken, consider using skinless chicken breast instead of thighs. You can also substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter sauce. Additionally, include more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost the nutritional content while maintaining the dish’s flavor.

Can I use other proteins in this recipe?

Yes, you can customize your 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken by using different proteins. Tofu or paneer works well for a vegetarian option. Alternatively, shrimp or turkey can also substitute chicken while still allowing you to enjoy the sauce’s flavors. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure doneness.

What do I serve with 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken?

Serve your 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken with basmati rice or naan for an authentic experience. Additionally, you can pair it with a side salad or roasted vegetables to add freshness to the meal. Don’t forget to drizzle some extra sauce over your sides for that delicious flavor!

Conclusion for 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken :

In conclusion, preparing 30-Minute Stovetop Indian Butter Chicken is both quick and satisfying. This recipe allows you to enjoy traditional flavors without spending too much time in the kitchen. By using simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can create this delightful dish. Customize it according to your dietary preferences and serve it alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will love!

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