Introduction
Butter chicken skillet is a simplified, home-friendly version of the classic dish that delivers all the rich, warming flavors without complicated steps or long marinating times. Cooked entirely in one pan, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet full of depth. I started making butter chicken in skillet form when I wanted the familiar creamy tomato sauce and tender chicken but with less cleanup and faster results. The balance of spices, cream, and butter creates a sauce that is smooth, mildly spiced, and incredibly satisfying. Served with rice or flatbread, this dish feels indulgent while still being approachable for home cooks. It is a reliable recipe that brings restaurant-style flavor straight to your kitchen.
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Butter Chicken Skillet – Creamy, Comforting, and Packed with Flavor
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A quick and flavorful butter chicken skillet made with tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-butter sauce, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Heat oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Stir in garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
- Sprinkle in garam masala, paprika, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and salt.
- Pour in tomato puree and stir well.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 3–5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
- Serve with rice or naan for a complete meal.
- Adjust spice level to taste.
- Chicken thighs can be used for extra tenderness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Indian
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is made in one skillet, making cleanup easy. The sauce is rich and creamy without being overly heavy. It uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps while delivering bold, comforting flavor. It is also versatile and pairs well with many sides.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Boneless chicken thighs
Chicken thighs stay tender and juicy when simmered in sauce, making them ideal for skillet cooking.
Butter
Butter adds richness and gives the dish its signature smooth, indulgent flavor.
Onion
Onion provides a savory, slightly sweet base that builds depth in the sauce.
Garlic
Garlic enhances aroma and adds bold flavor to the dish.
Ginger
Ginger adds warmth and freshness that balances the richness of the sauce.
Tomato sauce
Tomato sauce forms the foundation of the butter chicken gravy, adding acidity and body.
Heavy cream
Heavy cream softens the spices and creates the creamy texture butter chicken is known for.
Garam masala
Garam masala adds warmth and complexity with its blend of spices.
Paprika
Paprika contributes mild heat and color without overpowering the dish.
Ground cumin
Cumin adds earthy depth and rounds out the spice profile.
Salt
Salt enhances all flavors and balances the richness of the sauce.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and contrast.
Directions
Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and seasoning lightly with salt and black pepper. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add the chicken, cooking until lightly browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed, then sauté the onion until soft and translucent. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook briefly until fragrant. Add paprika, cumin, and garam masala, stirring to bloom the spices.
Pour in the tomato sauce and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes silky. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, cooking time is 25 minutes, and total time is around 40 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens too much.
Variations and Customizations
Chicken breast can be used instead of thighs, though it should be cooked carefully to avoid dryness. For extra heat, add chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes. A dairy-free version can be made using coconut cream instead of heavy cream, which I have tried with excellent results and a slightly sweeter finish. Adding a handful of spinach at the end also works well for extra color and nutrition.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Butter chicken skillet is high in protein and rich in flavor. While it is a creamy dish, portion control and pairing with rice or vegetables can help balance the meal. Adjusting butter and cream amounts allows flexibility for different dietary needs.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Brown the Chicken First
Browning adds depth and improves overall flavor.
Simmer Gently
Low heat keeps the sauce smooth and prevents separation.
Bloom the Spices
Cooking spices briefly in fat enhances their aroma.
FAQs
Can I make butter chicken ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day.
Is butter chicken spicy?
It is mildly spiced and easy to adjust.
Can I freeze butter chicken?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
What can I serve with butter chicken?
Rice, naan, or flatbread pair perfectly.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of sauce?
Yes, blend them smooth before using.
Why is my sauce too thin?
Simmer longer to reduce and thicken.
Can I add yogurt?
Yes, add it slowly to prevent curdling.
Is garam masala necessary?
It adds authentic flavor but can be substituted.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream instead of dairy.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it is mild and creamy.
Conclusion
Butter chicken skillet is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings rich, creamy goodness to the table with minimal effort. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it is a reliable recipe that works just as well for weeknight dinners as it does for relaxed weekend meals.
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