Name: Easy Butter Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb chicken breast (diced); 1 jar Patak’s® Butter Chicken Curry Simmer Sauce; Basmati rice (for serving); cilantro (for garnish)

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When I think about comfort food, Easy Butter Chicken immediately comes to mind. There’s something so warming and satisfying about the rich, creamy sauce coating tender pieces of chicken that makes it perfect for any occasion. I remember the first time I had butter chicken; it was at a friend’s house, and I was smitten! The combination of spices and the buttery texture made me feel like I was indulging in a luxurious dish. Ever since that day, I’ve been on a quest to create my own version at home. This Easy Butter Chicken recipe is my go-to for weeknight dinners when I crave something hearty yet simple to prepare. It’s all about bringing that restaurant-quality flavor right into your kitchen without breaking a sweat.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Skillet, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board

The Best Thing About This Easy Butter Chicken

Quick and Simple

One of the best aspects of this Easy Butter Chicken is how quickly it comes together. In just about twenty-five minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table. I love that I can whip this up even on the busiest nights, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or when friends come over.

Flavorful and Rich

The beautiful blend of spices in the butter sauce elevates the dish to a whole new level. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it a true crowd-pleaser. The use of butter and cream adds a luxurious richness that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Perfect Pairing

Another reason I adore this dish is how versatile it is when it comes to pairings. I usually serve it over fluffy basmati rice, which absorbs all the delicious sauce, but it also goes wonderfully with naan or even a simple salad on the side. You can easily customize your sides based on what you have at home.

Incredible Leftovers

Leftovers? Yes, please! The beauty of this Easy Butter Chicken is that the flavors deepen and improve after sitting in the fridge for a day. I often make extra so that I can enjoy the delightful taste the next day, which makes my lunch prep a breeze.

Family-Friendly

This recipe is a hit with my children as well. They love the creamy texture and the mild spice level, which makes it ideal for little ones. It’s always a win when I can prepare a meal that satisfies both adults and kids!

What’s In This Easy Butter Chicken

The ingredients in this Easy Butter Chicken are simple yet incredibly effective in creating a delightful dish. Each component plays a vital role in building the flavor profile, from the richness of the butter to the fragrant spices. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon of olive oil – This is essential for sautéing the chicken and adding a hint of flavor.
1 lb of chicken breast, diced – The star of the show! It absorbs the flavors beautifully and provides a hearty base for the sauce.
1 jar of Patak’s® Butter Chicken Curry Simmer Sauce – This is the secret weapon for a quick and easy sauce that packs a punch.
Basmati rice for serving – Fluffy and aromatic, this rice is perfect for soaking up the amazing sauce.
Cilantro for garnish – A fresh touch that brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color.

Putting Together Easy Butter Chicken

Making Easy Butter Chicken is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Let’s dive into the detailed steps to create this mouthwatering dish. I promise you’ll find it as enjoyable to make as it is to eat!

Start by heating the olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat. You want to get it nice and hot before adding the chicken. This ensures a great sear and locks in the juices.
Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced chicken breast to the pan. Sauté it for about five minutes until it’s golden brown and cooked throughout. You’ll want to stir occasionally to make sure it cooks evenly.
After the chicken is nicely browned, pour in the butter chicken curry simmer sauce. Give it a good stir to coat all the chicken pieces thoroughly with the sauce. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
Let the mixture simmer for about fifteen minutes. This step is crucial, as it allows the chicken to soak up the sauce and the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally during this time to prevent sticking.
When the sauce has thickened and the chicken is tender, it’s time to serve! Spoon the Easy Butter Chicken over fluffy basmati rice on each plate.
For the final touch, sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for garnish. This adds a vibrant color and a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the dish.

Tips for Success

To take your Easy Butter Chicken to the next level, here are some tips that can help ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Storage: You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Pairing: Serve with warm naan bread or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some fresh chili peppers to the sauce while it simmers.
Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like peas or bell peppers to the dish for extra nutrition. Just toss them in with the chicken when you add the sauce.

How to Serve Easy Butter Chicken

Serving Easy Butter Chicken can be as simple or as elaborate as you’d like. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

Over Rice: Serve the dish over fluffy basmati rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
With Naan: Pair with warm naan bread for a perfect scoop of chicken and sauce.
Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the cilantro; a fresh garnish can really elevate the presentation.
Occasion: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, but it also shines at gatherings and celebrations.
Seasonal Pairings: In summer, consider serving it with a light salad, while in winter, some roasted veggies can make a great side.

FAQ

To serve Easy Butter Chicken, I recommend spooning it over fluffy basmati rice or pairing it with warm naan. This allows you to soak up all the delicious sauce. You can also garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings!

Yes! You can definitely make Easy Butter Chicken in advance. In fact, the flavors meld beautifully after a day in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

If you want to adjust the spice level of your Easy Butter Chicken, you can easily do so! For a milder flavor, stick to the simmer sauce as is. However, if you’re looking for a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños while simmering. Taste as you go to achieve your desired heat!

This dish pairs well with many options! While basmati rice is a classic choice, you can also opt for warm naan, a light salad, or roasted vegetables. Consider adding some yogurt or a cool cucumber salad on the side to balance the rich flavors of the butter chicken.

Conclusion

This Easy Butter Chicken is truly a fantastic dish that brings comfort and flavor into your home. I encourage you to try making it for your family or friends; I guarantee they’ll love it just as much as I do. The rich, creamy sauce paired with tender chicken is a winning combination. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking!