Title:
Effortless 30-Minute Stovetop Butter Chicken Recipe

Introduction:

If you're craving a delicious and quick dinner that's bursting with flavor, look no further than this Effortless 30-Minute Stovetop Butter Chicken recipe. Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a popular Indian dish known for its creamy texture and rich flavors. This stovetop version allows you to enjoy this classic dish in just half an hour. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 cup tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup chicken broth or water
1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
2 tablespoons butter
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked rice or naan, for serving

Instructions:

Cook the Chicken:

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

Heat vegetable oil or ghee in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Spices:

Stir in garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds to toast the spices and release their flavors.

Simmer with Tomatoes:

Pour in tomato puree or crushed tomatoes and chicken broth or water. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.

Reduce heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Add Cream and Butter:

Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk and butter. Continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is creamy and well combined.

Combine Chicken and Sauce:

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with any juices that have accumulated. Stir well to coat the chicken pieces in the creamy sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.

Serve the stovetop butter chicken hot, over cooked rice or with naan bread on the side.

Tips for Success:

Adjusting Spice Level: Control the heat of the dish by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper or omitting it altogether.

Make it Creamier: For a richer sauce, you can add more heavy cream or coconut milk.

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion:

This Effortless 30-Minute Stovetop Butter Chicken recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy and aromatic sauce paired with tender chicken makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a fan of Indian cuisine or trying it for the first time, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy the flavors of butter chicken with minimal effort and maximum flavor—your family and friends will love it!