Name: Stovetop Butter Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 405 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cubed into 1" cubes); 2 tablespoons tandoori paste; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1.5 tablespoons coriander powder; 1.5 teaspoon ground cumin; 0.5 teaspoon garam masala; 0.5 cup plain greek yogurt; 2-4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 medium onion (sliced or diced); 14.5 ounce can crushed tomatoes; 0.5 cup heavy cream; Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste); Pinch of cayenne (for extra heat (optional))

Introduction to Stovetop Butter Chicken

Why Stovetop Butter Chicken is the Perfect Homemade Dish for Young Professionals

Stovetop butter chicken is not just a delicious meal; it's a lifesaver for busy young professionals. With the demanding schedules many of us face, we often lean towards takeout or quick, uninspiring meals. Enter stovetop butter chicken—a warm, comforting, and flavorful dish that’s surprisingly easy to whip up in your own kitchen.

In just a little over an hour, you can create an authentic Indian meal that feels like it belongs in a restaurant, all while saving both time and money. Many professionals appreciate the minimal prep time (just 20 minutes), allowing you to spend more time on the things that matter—like unwinding after a long day or catching up with friends.

Plus, with ingredients like tender chicken, rich tomatoes, and a creamy sauce, it’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. If you don’t usually cook, this recipe can help you spice up your rotation without the intimidation factor of more complex dishes. Want to impress your friends or even yourself this week? Stovetop butter chicken is your ticket to effortless culinary success! So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Stovetop Butter Chicken

Creating stovetop butter chicken is not only delicious but also allows you to savor an authentic Indian dish from the comfort of your home. Let’s dive into the essentials you’ll need to gather!

Essential ingredients for the marinade

To kick things off, your chicken marinade is crucial in building the rich flavors of this dish. Here's what you'll need:

1 pound (454 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed into 1" pieces
2 tablespoons tandoori paste for that signature spice blend
1 teaspoon grated ginger to add warmth
2 cloves garlic, minced for aromatic depth
1 teaspoon chili powder for a bit of heat
1 ½ tablespoon coriander powder for a citrusy note
1 ½ teaspoon ground cumin for earthiness
½ teaspoon garam masala for that classic Indian flavor
½ cup (100 g) plain Greek yogurt to tenderize the chicken

Ingredients for the sauce and cooking

Once your chicken is marinated, you'll need a few more ingredients to finish off this luscious stovetop butter chicken:

2-4 tablespoons unsalted butter for sautéing
1 onion, sliced or diced to create a fragrant base
14.5 ounce (411 g) can crushed tomatoes to bring acidity and sweetness
½ cup (118 ml) heavy cream for creaminess that binds it all together
Salt and pepper to taste
Pinch of cayenne pepper for an optional kick

With these ingredients at hand, you're well on your way to creating a satisfying and heartwarming meal! Now, is there any better comfort food than this?

Preparing Stovetop Butter Chicken

Making a comforting, hearty dish like stovetop butter chicken can be a rewarding experience, especially after a long day. This delicious meal is packed with flavor and can be prepared in just a few straightforward steps. Let’s dive into the process so you can impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!

Prepare the Chicken Marinade

The first step in this stovetop butter chicken experience starts with the chicken marinade. Begin by placing one pound of cubed boneless, skinless chicken breast into a large resealable plastic bag. Then, in a bowl, whisk together the tandoori paste, ginger, garlic, chili powder, coriander powder, ground cumin, garam masala, and Greek yogurt. Once mixed, pour this flavorful marinade over the chicken in the bag. Seal it up and give it a gentle massage to ensure that every piece of chicken is coated well. For the best results, let this marinate in your fridge for at least six hours or overnight if you have the time. This not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the chicken!

Pre-Cook Your Ingredients

Once your chicken is marinated to perfection, it’s time to get your cooking equipment ready. Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add 2 to 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. As the butter melts, take a moment to savor that rich aroma! Then, add a sliced or diced onion and cook it until it becomes tender, about 3 to 5 minutes. This initial step sets the flavor foundation for your stovetop butter chicken.

Cook the Chicken with the Marinade

Next comes the moment we've all been waiting for—adding the chicken! Transfer the marinated chicken and the marinade directly into your skillet with the cooked onions. Give it a good stir to incorporate everything together. The sizzling sound as it hits the heat is music to any food lover’s ears!

Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Now it’s time to incorporate the tomatoes. Pour in a 14.5-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and stir again. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer. This should take about 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender. This melding of flavors is what makes your stovetop butter chicken so special—trust the process!

Stir in the Cream and Season

Finally, after all those intoxicating aromas have filled your kitchen, it's time to finish things off. Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream to achieve that classic creamy consistency we all love. Let it simmer for another five minutes, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully. Before serving, taste and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne if you're looking for an extra kick. Serve this luscious dish over basmati rice and with some warm naan, and prepare for compliments!

By following these steps, you'll create a comforting and delectable stovetop butter chicken that's sure to be a hit at any meal! Happy cooking!

Variations on Stovetop Butter Chicken

Experimenting with your stovetop butter chicken can lead to delightful culinary surprises! Here are two fantastic variations to consider:

Make it Spicy with Added Cayenne

If you love a kick, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your sauce. It infuses the dish with wonderful heat and enhances those aromatic spices, creating a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds. Start with just a pinch—you can always add more if you like it fiery!

Swap Chicken for Chickpeas for a Vegetarian Option

For a satisfying meatless alternative, simply replace chicken with canned chickpeas. This swap not only makes the dish vegetarian-friendly but also adds a hearty texture and a boost of protein. Just drain and rinse your chickpeas before adding them to the sauce. Your stovetop butter chicken will remain just as creamy and flavorful!

Feel free to explore these variations and make them your own!

Cooking Tips for Stovetop Butter Chicken

How to Ensure Tender Chicken

To achieve tender chicken in your stovetop butter chicken, it’s crucial to control the cooking time. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough pieces. Stir the chicken in the skillet until it turns white and is fully cooked through, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Using a meat thermometer can help—look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.

Importance of Marinating Time

Don’t skip the marinating step! Letting your chicken soak in the marinade for 6-8 hours, or even overnight, enhances the flavors and tenderizes the meat. The Greek yogurt in the marinade not only infuses amazing taste but also breaks down the chicken fibers, resulting in a deliciously tender dish. Be patient—the longer, the better!

With these tips, your stovetop butter chicken will be a hit at the dinner table. For more inspiration, check out how to properly marinate chicken over at BBC Good Food or explore flavor profiles on Serious Eats. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Stovetop Butter Chicken

Best sides to pair with butter chicken

To enjoy stovetop butter chicken to the fullest, think about serving it alongside fragrant basmati rice or fluffy naan. The rice absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, while naan is perfect for scooping up those extra flavors. Consider adding a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, for a crisp contrast that complements the dish's richness. A simple cucumber salad dressed with yogurt and mint can also refresh your palate.

How to serve for a cozy dinner party

Hosting a cozy dinner party? Serve your stovetop butter chicken family-style right from the skillet. This invites everyone to dig in and helps foster a warm atmosphere. Fill your table with colorful side dishes to create an inviting spread. Don’t forget to provide some mint chutney for drizzling! Paired with exciting drinks like mango lassi or spiced chai, this meal will transport your guests straight to India without leaving home. Looking for some more inspiration? Check out how to elevate your Indian dinner party with these tips from Indian Cuisine Experts.

Time breakdown for Stovetop Butter Chicken

Preparation time
The prep time for your stovetop butter chicken is approximately 20 minutes. This includes marinating the chicken, which is key to infusing rich flavors.

Cooking time
Once marinated, the cooking time is about 25 minutes. You’ll sauté the chicken with aromatic spices and creamy ingredients until everything is perfectly tender.

Total time
Overall, you're looking at a total time of around 6 hours and 45 minutes, which factors in the marination time. This method allows for the chicken to soak up a delicious blend of spices, ensuring a meal that's worth the wait!

Nutritional Facts for Stovetop Butter Chicken

When indulging in the rich flavors of Stovetop Butter Chicken, it's helpful to know what's on your plate. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional facts:

Calories Per Serving

Each serving contains approximately 367 calories, making it a hearty yet not overly heavy meal.

Protein Content

This dish is a fantastic source of protein, delivering around 30 grams per serving, perfect for keeping you satisfied throughout your busy day.

Sodium Levels

With about 314 mg of sodium per serving, Stovetop Butter Chicken is relatively moderate. Using low-sodium canned tomatoes can help you control the levels further, ideal for those watching their intake.

For more insights on nutrition and meal prep, check out the USDA FoodData Central. Eating well shouldn't feel like a chore!

FAQs about Stovetop Butter Chicken

How can I make my butter chicken sauce thicker?

If you're looking for a richer, creamier sauce in your stovetop butter chicken, try adding more heavy cream or incorporating a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water. Simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes after adding the thickener, which will help develop a luscious texture. You can also reduce the sauce by cooking it uncovered for a bit longer to achieve your desired thickness.

What can I serve with my butter chicken?

Pair your delicious stovetop butter chicken with traditional basmati rice for a satisfying meal. Naan bread is ideal for scooping up the sauce, making it a hit at any dinner table. For a fresh touch, consider a side salad or roasted vegetables to round out the flavors and add some crunch to your plate.

Can I prepare stovetop butter chicken in advance?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before, letting the flavors meld beautifully. Once cooked, the stovetop butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just gently reheat it on the stove before serving. This way, you enjoy a delightful homemade meal with minimal fuss! For more tips on meal prep, check out this resources on meal planning.

Conclusion on Stovetop Butter Chicken

Stovetop butter chicken is a true delight, combining rich flavors and creamy textures for a satisfying meal. It's perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests! With minimal effort and a sprinkle of love, you'll create a dish that your taste buds will crave again and again. Enjoy!