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Butter Chicken Skillet Flavorful and Easy Dinner Recipe

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- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces - 2 tablespoons butter - 1 large onion, finely chopped - 4 garlic cloves, minced - 1 tablespoon ginger, grated - 1 can crushed tomatoes (15 oz) - 1 cup heavy cream - 2 tablespoons garam masala - 1 tablespoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon turmeric powder - 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste) - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) These main ingredients create a rich and creamy sauce. The chicken thighs provide juicy bites, while the spices bring warmth and depth to the dish. - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1/2 cup peas or bell peppers Adding lemon juice brightens the flavors. Smoked paprika gives a lovely smoky note. Peas or bell peppers add color and texture to the dish. - Cooked basmati rice - Warm naan - Lemon wedges Basmati rice absorbs the sauce well. Naan is perfect for dipping. A squeeze of lemon before eating adds a refreshing burst. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by cutting 1 pound of boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted, add 1 large onion, finely chopped. Sauté the onion for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it to be translucent and slightly golden. Next, stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger. Cook these for 1 to 2 minutes until you smell their great aroma. Now, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken to season it. Cook the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes until it is browned on all sides. This step adds flavor and texture. After the chicken is browned, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of garam masala, 1 tablespoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spices, cooking for another 2 minutes. This helps the spices blend into the dish. Pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it starts simmering, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. After that, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Finally, remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Enjoy your tasty butter chicken skillet! To get juicy chicken, use boneless chicken thighs. They have more flavor and stay tender. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Cook the chicken until it's browned on all sides. This step adds great taste. Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches if needed. This helps the chicken sear instead of steam. You can boost the taste by adding extra spices. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish. Fresh ginger adds a nice kick. You can also stir in a spoonful of honey for sweetness. For extra richness, use a mix of heavy cream and yogurt. Just remember to balance the flavors based on your taste. Presentation makes a dish even more appealing. Serve your butter chicken in the skillet for a rustic look. If you prefer, transfer it to a serving dish. Pair it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan. This adds a nice contrast. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for color. A lemon wedge on the side gives a fresh touch. These small details make your meal stand out. Pro Tips Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices enhance the flavor profile of your butter chicken. Consider purchasing whole spices and grinding them just before use for maximum aroma. Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavorful chicken, marinate the thighs in yogurt and spices for a few hours or overnight before cooking. Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding fresh green chilies according to your taste preference. Garnish Creatively: Enhance presentation with not just cilantro but also a sprinkle of crushed cashews or a drizzle of cream for a gourmet touch. {{image_2}} You can switch the chicken for other meats. Try shrimp, pork, or beef. Each brings a new taste. For a quick meal, use ground meat. Just adjust the cooking time for smaller pieces. You can make a vegan version using tofu or chickpeas. The texture works well in the sauce. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for richness. Replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter. This keeps the dish creamy and dairy-free. Butter chicken has many global twists. You can add spices like saffron for an Indian flair. For a Thai twist, include coconut milk and lemongrass. This gives a fresh, bright flavor. You can also try adding a dash of soy sauce for a fusion taste. Each variation makes the dish exciting and new! After making Butter Chicken Skillet, let it cool down. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. This keeps the chicken moist and the flavors fresh. Make sure to label the container with the date. If you want to save some for later, freezing is great. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags for easier storage. Freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheating Butter Chicken Skillet is easy. You can use the stove or the microwave. If using the stove, heat it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally to warm it evenly. If using the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for one to two minutes, stirring halfway. Always check that it’s hot throughout before serving. Enjoy it with fresh rice or naan! You can use coconut milk or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. Both give a creamy texture. Coconut milk adds a nice flavor. Greek yogurt makes it a bit tangy. Use full-fat options for the best results. To add heat, increase the chili powder. You can also use fresh chopped green chilies. Adjust the spice level to match your taste. For a deeper flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Yes, Butter Chicken Skillet can be healthy when made with lean chicken. Use less butter to cut calories. Pair it with brown rice or whole wheat naan for more fiber. The spices also offer health benefits. Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge after cooling. When you're ready, reheat it on the stove. Add a splash of water for a smoother sauce. Enjoy your meal with fresh rice or naan! You now have everything you need to make Butter Chicken Skillet at home. We covered the main and optional ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and tips for perfect chicken. Don't forget the side items for serving. Try different proteins or vegan options to make it your own. Store leftovers properly for later. Enjoy this dish that can adapt to your taste and needs. Cooking can be fun and rewarding, so get started!

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If you’re looking for a tasty dinner that’s both simple and quick to prepare, look no further than this Butter Chicken Skillet! With its creamy sauce and rich spices, it will impress your family and friends. In this post, I’ll walk you through the must-have ingredients, easy step-by-step instructions, and some fun variations. Get ready to treat yourself to a flavorful meal that cooks in just one pan!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of spices and heavy cream creates a rich and satisfying sauce that perfectly coats the chicken.
  2. Quick and Easy: This skillet recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
  3. Versatile Serving Options: Whether served over basmati rice or with warm naan, this dish is customizable to fit your preference.
  4. Garnish for a Pop: Fresh cilantro not only adds color but also a burst of freshness that elevates the entire dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Butter Chicken Skillet

– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 2 tablespoons butter

– 1 large onion, finely chopped

– 4 garlic cloves, minced

– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

– 1 can crushed tomatoes (15 oz)

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 2 tablespoons garam masala

– 1 tablespoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

– 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

These main ingredients create a rich and creamy sauce. The chicken thighs provide juicy bites, while the spices bring warmth and depth to the dish.

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1/2 cup peas or bell peppers

Adding lemon juice brightens the flavors. Smoked paprika gives a lovely smoky note. Peas or bell peppers add color and texture to the dish.

Suggested Side Items to Serve

– Cooked basmati rice

– Warm naan

– Lemon wedges

Basmati rice absorbs the sauce well. Naan is perfect for dipping. A squeeze of lemon before eating adds a refreshing burst.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken and Aromatics

Start by cutting 1 pound of boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted, add 1 large onion, finely chopped. Sauté the onion for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it to be translucent and slightly golden. Next, stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger. Cook these for 1 to 2 minutes until you smell their great aroma.

Cooking the Chicken and Adding Spices

Now, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken to season it. Cook the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes until it is browned on all sides. This step adds flavor and texture. After the chicken is browned, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of garam masala, 1 tablespoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spices, cooking for another 2 minutes. This helps the spices blend into the dish.

Simmering the Sauce and Finishing Touches

Pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it starts simmering, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. After that, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Finally, remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Enjoy your tasty butter chicken skillet!

Tips & Tricks

Secrets to Perfectly Cooked Chicken

To get juicy chicken, use boneless chicken thighs. They have more flavor and stay tender. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides. This step adds great taste. Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches if needed. This helps the chicken sear instead of steam.

Enhancing Flavor with Extra Ingredients

You can boost the taste by adding extra spices. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish. Fresh ginger adds a nice kick. You can also stir in a spoonful of honey for sweetness. For extra richness, use a mix of heavy cream and yogurt. Just remember to balance the flavors based on your taste.

Presentation Tips for Serving

Presentation makes a dish even more appealing. Serve your butter chicken in the skillet for a rustic look. If you prefer, transfer it to a serving dish. Pair it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan. This adds a nice contrast. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for color. A lemon wedge on the side gives a fresh touch. These small details make your meal stand out.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices enhance the flavor profile of your butter chicken. Consider purchasing whole spices and grinding them just before use for maximum aroma.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavorful chicken, marinate the thighs in yogurt and spices for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
  3. Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding fresh green chilies according to your taste preference.
  4. Garnish Creatively: Enhance presentation with not just cilantro but also a sprinkle of crushed cashews or a drizzle of cream for a gourmet touch.

Variations

Alternative Proteins and Substitutions

You can switch the chicken for other meats. Try shrimp, pork, or beef. Each brings a new taste. For a quick meal, use ground meat. Just adjust the cooking time for smaller pieces.

Vegan or Vegetarian Versions of Butter Chicken

You can make a vegan version using tofu or chickpeas. The texture works well in the sauce. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for richness. Replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter. This keeps the dish creamy and dairy-free.

Global Twists on Butter Chicken Skillet

Butter chicken has many global twists. You can add spices like saffron for an Indian flair. For a Thai twist, include coconut milk and lemongrass. This gives a fresh, bright flavor. You can also try adding a dash of soy sauce for a fusion taste. Each variation makes the dish exciting and new!

Storage Info

Best Practices for Refrigeration

After making Butter Chicken Skillet, let it cool down. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. This keeps the chicken moist and the flavors fresh. Make sure to label the container with the date.

How to Freeze Butter Chicken Skillet

If you want to save some for later, freezing is great. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags for easier storage. Freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Reheating Instructions for Leftovers

Reheating Butter Chicken Skillet is easy. You can use the stove or the microwave. If using the stove, heat it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally to warm it evenly. If using the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for one to two minutes, stirring halfway. Always check that it’s hot throughout before serving. Enjoy it with fresh rice or naan!

FAQs

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. Both give a creamy texture. Coconut milk adds a nice flavor. Greek yogurt makes it a bit tangy. Use full-fat options for the best results.

How can I make Butter Chicken Skillet spicier?

To add heat, increase the chili powder. You can also use fresh chopped green chilies. Adjust the spice level to match your taste. For a deeper flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Is Butter Chicken Skillet healthy?

Yes, Butter Chicken Skillet can be healthy when made with lean chicken. Use less butter to cut calories. Pair it with brown rice or whole wheat naan for more fiber. The spices also offer health benefits.

Can I make Butter Chicken Skillet in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge after cooling. When you’re ready, reheat it on the stove. Add a splash of water for a smoother sauce. Enjoy your meal with fresh rice or naan!

You now have everything you need to make Butter Chicken Skillet at home. We covered the main and optional ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and tips for perfect chicken. Don’t forget the side items for serving.

Try different proteins or vegan options to make it your own. Store leftovers properly for later. Enjoy this dish that can adapt to your taste and needs. Cooking can be fun and rewarding, so get starte

- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces - 2 tablespoons butter - 1 large onion, finely chopped - 4 garlic cloves, minced - 1 tablespoon ginger, grated - 1 can crushed tomatoes (15 oz) - 1 cup heavy cream - 2 tablespoons garam masala - 1 tablespoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon turmeric powder - 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste) - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) These main ingredients create a rich and creamy sauce. The chicken thighs provide juicy bites, while the spices bring warmth and depth to the dish. - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1/2 cup peas or bell peppers Adding lemon juice brightens the flavors. Smoked paprika gives a lovely smoky note. Peas or bell peppers add color and texture to the dish. - Cooked basmati rice - Warm naan - Lemon wedges Basmati rice absorbs the sauce well. Naan is perfect for dipping. A squeeze of lemon before eating adds a refreshing burst. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by cutting 1 pound of boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted, add 1 large onion, finely chopped. Sauté the onion for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it to be translucent and slightly golden. Next, stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of grated ginger. Cook these for 1 to 2 minutes until you smell their great aroma. Now, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken to season it. Cook the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes until it is browned on all sides. This step adds flavor and texture. After the chicken is browned, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of garam masala, 1 tablespoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spices, cooking for another 2 minutes. This helps the spices blend into the dish. Pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it starts simmering, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. After that, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Finally, remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Enjoy your tasty butter chicken skillet! To get juicy chicken, use boneless chicken thighs. They have more flavor and stay tender. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Cook the chicken until it's browned on all sides. This step adds great taste. Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches if needed. This helps the chicken sear instead of steam. You can boost the taste by adding extra spices. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish. Fresh ginger adds a nice kick. You can also stir in a spoonful of honey for sweetness. For extra richness, use a mix of heavy cream and yogurt. Just remember to balance the flavors based on your taste. Presentation makes a dish even more appealing. Serve your butter chicken in the skillet for a rustic look. If you prefer, transfer it to a serving dish. Pair it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan. This adds a nice contrast. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for color. A lemon wedge on the side gives a fresh touch. These small details make your meal stand out. Pro Tips Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices enhance the flavor profile of your butter chicken. Consider purchasing whole spices and grinding them just before use for maximum aroma. Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavorful chicken, marinate the thighs in yogurt and spices for a few hours or overnight before cooking. Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding fresh green chilies according to your taste preference. Garnish Creatively: Enhance presentation with not just cilantro but also a sprinkle of crushed cashews or a drizzle of cream for a gourmet touch. {{image_2}} You can switch the chicken for other meats. Try shrimp, pork, or beef. Each brings a new taste. For a quick meal, use ground meat. Just adjust the cooking time for smaller pieces. You can make a vegan version using tofu or chickpeas. The texture works well in the sauce. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for richness. Replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter. This keeps the dish creamy and dairy-free. Butter chicken has many global twists. You can add spices like saffron for an Indian flair. For a Thai twist, include coconut milk and lemongrass. This gives a fresh, bright flavor. You can also try adding a dash of soy sauce for a fusion taste. Each variation makes the dish exciting and new! After making Butter Chicken Skillet, let it cool down. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. This keeps the chicken moist and the flavors fresh. Make sure to label the container with the date. If you want to save some for later, freezing is great. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags for easier storage. Freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheating Butter Chicken Skillet is easy. You can use the stove or the microwave. If using the stove, heat it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally to warm it evenly. If using the microwave, place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for one to two minutes, stirring halfway. Always check that it’s hot throughout before serving. Enjoy it with fresh rice or naan! You can use coconut milk or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. Both give a creamy texture. Coconut milk adds a nice flavor. Greek yogurt makes it a bit tangy. Use full-fat options for the best results. To add heat, increase the chili powder. You can also use fresh chopped green chilies. Adjust the spice level to match your taste. For a deeper flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Yes, Butter Chicken Skillet can be healthy when made with lean chicken. Use less butter to cut calories. Pair it with brown rice or whole wheat naan for more fiber. The spices also offer health benefits. Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge after cooling. When you're ready, reheat it on the stove. Add a splash of water for a smoother sauce. Enjoy your meal with fresh rice or naan! You now have everything you need to make Butter Chicken Skillet at home. We covered the main and optional ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and tips for perfect chicken. Don't forget the side items for serving. Try different proteins or vegan options to make it your own. Store leftovers properly for later. Enjoy this dish that can adapt to your taste and needs. Cooking can be fun and rewarding, so get started!

Butter Chicken Skillet

A creamy and flavorful butter chicken dish cooked in a skillet, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (15 oz)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons garam masala
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh cilantro, chopped
  • for serving cooked basmati rice or naan

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until translucent and slightly golden.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
  • Sprinkle in the garam masala, ground cumin, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spices, cooking for another 2 minutes.
  • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.

Notes

Serve the butter chicken in the skillet or transfer to a serving dish. Pair it with a side of basmati rice or warm naan, and garnish with extra cilantro for a burst of color. Consider adding a lemon wedge for a fresh squeeze before serving.
Keyword butter chicken, chicken, Indian cuisine, skillet

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