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A realistic, amateur-style photo of butter chicken on a simple plate in a home setting, featuring uneven lighting, a wrinkled cloth, crumbs, and a cozy kitchen background with everyday clutter. Perfect for showcasing a casual weeknight dinner.

Weeknight Indian Butter Chicken Dinner

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Looking for an easy butter chicken recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights? This weeknight Indian butter chicken dinner combines rich, creamy flavors with tender chicken in a simple and quick preparation.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
  • Salt to taste
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, turmeric, coriander, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add marinated chicken to the pan and cook until browned on all sides, approximately 10 minutes.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. Then, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk, warming through but not boiling.
  5. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve hot over steamed rice or naan bread.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat by microwaving or gently simmering on the stove until heated through.
  • Add a splash of cream or water when reheating to loosen the sauce.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian
  • Diet: Dairy-free option available

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 480 Kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 140mg