Craving a quick, flavorful meal? My Quick Butter Chicken Skillet is the answer! This easy dish packs a punch with tender chicken, rich spices, and creamy sauce, bringing restaurant vibes right to your home. With just a few main ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy this classic in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will impress your family and friends!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of spices creates a rich and aromatic sauce that elevates the dish.
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, naan, or even in a wrap for a delicious meal any way you like.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a hit with kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, grated
Spice Mix
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
Sauce Components
– 1 cup tomato puree
– ½ cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
The main ingredients in this dish are the chicken thighs, olive oil, onion, garlic, and ginger. I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy flavor. They cook quickly and stay tender. Olive oil adds a nice touch of richness.
Onions, garlic, and ginger bring depth to the dish. When you chop the onion and sauté it, it becomes sweet and soft. Then, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Their aroma fills the kitchen and makes everything feel warm and inviting.
The spice mix is essential for flavor. Ground cumin and coriander powder create a base. Paprika adds color and a bit of sweetness. Garam masala blends these spices into a fragrant mix. This combination gives butter chicken its signature taste.
The sauce components include tomato puree and heavy cream. The tomato puree is rich and tangy. It balances the cream’s richness. Heavy cream makes the sauce smooth and creamy. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste.
These ingredients come together to create a meal that is easy and full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
To start, chop one onion finely. This adds great flavor. Next, mince three cloves of garlic. The garlic gives the dish a nice kick. You also need one inch of ginger, which you’ll grate. It adds warmth and depth. Now, take one pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Cut them into cubes. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
Cooking the Chicken
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about five minutes. Stir until the onion turns translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook them for an extra one to two minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen smells amazing.
Now, add the cubed chicken thighs to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about six to eight minutes. You want it browned and fully cooked. Stir gently to ensure even cooking.
Making the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time for the spices. Add one teaspoon each of ground cumin, coriander powder, paprika, and garam masala. Stir well to coat the chicken with spices. This mix is what makes your butter chicken special.
Next, pour in one cup of tomato puree. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about five minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend together. After that, reduce the heat to low. Stir in half a cup of heavy cream. Simmer for another two to three minutes. The sauce should become thick and creamy.
Finally, taste the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Once you’re happy, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your quick butter chicken skillet!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Flavor
To make your butter chicken shine, adjust spices to your liking. If you love heat, add a pinch of chili powder. If you want it milder, reduce the spices. Balancing the sauce’s acidity is key. The cream softens the tang of the tomato puree. This creates a rich and smooth flavor.
Ensuring Tender Chicken
Cook the chicken thighs for about 6-8 minutes. This time ensures they are cooked through and tender. Using boneless thighs is crucial. They stay juicy and absorb flavors better than chicken breasts.
Enhancing the Dish
Fresh cilantro adds a nice touch. It brightens the dish with its fresh taste. Serve your butter chicken with rice or warm naan. Both soak up the creamy sauce well. This completes your meal and makes it truly satisfying.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Consider grinding whole spices just before use for a more aromatic experience.
- Marinate the Chicken: For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half of the heavy cream with coconut milk. This adds a subtle sweetness and tropical flavor.
- Serve with Sides: Serve your butter chicken with naan or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Adding a side salad can also provide a refreshing contrast.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken breasts are leaner but may dry out faster. You can also try a vegetarian version. Use paneer or chickpeas instead of chicken. Paneer adds a great texture, while chickpeas offer protein.
Spice Level Adjustments
Want to turn up the heat? Add some chili powder to the mix. This can give your dish a nice kick. If your family prefers milder flavors, use a mild curry. This way, everyone can enjoy the meal without too much spice.
Cream Alternatives
Heavy cream makes the dish rich and smooth. But if you need a substitute, coconut milk works well. It adds a slight sweetness and creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, use almond milk or cashew cream. Both provide a creamy base without dairy.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To keep your butter chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure the dish cools to room temperature first. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat. This method helps keep the chicken tender. Stir often to avoid burning. You can also use the microwave, but cover the dish to keep the moisture in.
Freezing Recommendations
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze butter chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. For reheating, use a skillet or microwave. Heat until it’s hot all the way through, stirring occasionally.
Shelf Life
In the refrigerator, your butter chicken lasts about three days. Look for signs of spoilage, like a sour smell or a change in color. If you notice any mold, toss it out. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety.
FAQs
What is butter chicken?
Butter chicken is a popular dish from India. It has rich flavors and a creamy sauce. The dish comes from Punjabi cuisine and dates back to the 1950s. Traditional butter chicken uses marinated chicken cooked in a spiced tomato sauce. The sauce often includes cream and butter, making it smooth and delicious.
Can I make butter chicken without cream?
Yes, you can make butter chicken without cream. You can use yogurt or coconut milk instead. Both options add creaminess and flavor. Yogurt gives a tangy taste, while coconut milk adds a sweet note. You can also skip the cream and use broth for a lighter meal.
How long does it take to make butter chicken?
Making butter chicken is quick and easy. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you can enjoy this dish in just 30 minutes. This makes it a great choice for busy weeknights.
Now you know how to make delicious butter chicken. We covered key ingredients like chicken thighs, spices, and sauces. You also learned step-by-step instructions for cooking and tips to boost flavor. Variations allow you to adapt the dish to your taste, whether you want heat or a vegetarian option. Lastly, proper storage ensures your leftovers stay tasty. Enjoy creating this dish, and impress your family or friends with your new skill
