There’s something undeniably comforting about a one-pan wonder that brings bold flavors and ease together in such a delightful way. This Butter Chicken Skillet is the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve just stepped into a cozy Indian eatery, minus the takeout containers. Tender pieces of chicken bathed in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce create a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds. The gentle heat from the cayenne mingles with the warm perfume of garam masala, while the touch of lemon juice adds a bright note that keeps every bite exciting. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this skillet meal is sure to make your kitchen feel like the heart of your home.
Every time I stir this luscious curry, I can’t help but remember the first time I tasted authentic butter chicken during my travels through India. The rich sauce, silky with cream and butter, left me utterly smitten—and now I get to share that love right here at home in under an hour. No need for a long list of pans or complicated techniques. This recipe unfolds with straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, turning any weeknight into a flavorful adventure. It’s beginner-friendly but delivers restaurant-worthy results that will have everyone asking for seconds. So grab your skillet and get ready to whip up a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting, perfect for any night of the week!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BUTTER CHICKEN SKILLET
To create that signature creamy and spiced profile, each ingredient in this Butter Chicken Skillet plays an essential role. From the richness of butter to the warmth of ground spices, everything works in harmony to build layers of flavor without complicated steps.
- Unsalted butter: Provides a rich, velvety base for cooking, lending a silky texture that balances the acidity of the tomato puree.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean, these bite-sized pieces soak up the sauce beautifully and cook quickly for a weeknight-friendly meal.
- Onion: When finely chopped and sautéed, onions release natural sweetness that deepens the overall flavor of the curry.
- Garlic cloves: Minced garlic adds a punch of aroma and savory depth, marrying perfectly with the spices.
- Fresh ginger: Brings a bright, slightly peppery zing that cuts through the creaminess and invigorates the palate.
- Garam masala: A fragrant blend of spices, it’s the backbone of butter chicken’s signature scent and complex warmth.
- Ground cumin: Adds earthy, nutty notes, enhancing the savory profile of the dish.
- Ground coriander: Offers citrusy undertones that lift and complement the heavier spices.
- Turmeric: Contributes a vibrant golden hue and subtle, peppery flavor, along with healthful antioxidants.
- Cayenne pepper: Delivers gentle heat—adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
- Salt: Crucial for balancing and amplifying all the flavors in the sauce.
- Tomato puree: Forms the tangy foundation of the sauce, simmered down to a rich consistency.
- Heavy cream: Creates the luxurious, silky texture that defines butter chicken, mellowing out the spices.
- Lemon juice: A splash at the end brightens the dish and adds a refreshing contrast to the cream.
- Fresh cilantro: Sprinkled on top as garnish, it brings a fresh, herbal finish to every spoonful.
HOW TO MAKE BUTTER CHICKEN SKILLET
Cooking this Butter Chicken Skillet is all about layering flavors and letting the sauce develop its signature creaminess. Follow these steps for a foolproof, delicious meal that comes together in one pan.
1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter until it’s foamy. This will create a luscious base for your spices and chicken.
2. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside to rest.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and soft, about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
4. Stir in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices release their aroma and coat the onions.
5. Pour in the tomato puree and stir well to combine with the spices. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring now and then, until the sauce thickens and deepens in color.
6. Return the browned chicken to the skillet, nestling each piece into the sauce. Stir thoroughly so that every morsel of chicken is coated in the rich tomato-spice mixture.
7. Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently until the cream is fully incorporated, then let everything simmer for another 5–7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is luxuriously creamy.
8. Add the lemon juice and give it a final stir, adjusting salt or heat as needed.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BUTTER CHICKEN SKILLET
Serving this Butter Chicken Skillet is where you can get creative and elevate the experience even further. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or entertaining guests, these tips will make your presentation shine and make sure every bite is perfectly balanced.
- Serve with fluffy basmati rice: Spoon the creamy chicken and sauce over freshly steamed rice, letting the grains soak up every drop of that luscious tomato-cream sauce for a classic combination.
- Warm naan on the side: Heat store-bought or homemade naan in a skillet or oven until it’s pillowy soft. Tear off pieces to scoop up the butter chicken, creating a fun, hands-on dining experience.
- Garnish with toasted nuts: Sprinkle lightly toasted cashews or almonds on top for an extra layer of crunch and subtle nuttiness that complements the creamy sauce.
- Pair with a cucumber raita: A simple yogurt-based side with chopped cucumber, mint, and a pinch of salt cools the palate and adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the curry.
HOW TO STORE BUTTER CHICKEN SKILLET
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (and trust me, they’re even better the next day), proper storage is key to maintaining that creamy texture and robust flavor. Here’s how to keep your butter chicken tasting fresh and delicious.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container: Allow the skillet to cool to room temperature, then transfer the dish into a sealed container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days, reheating gently on the stove to prevent the cream from separating.
- Freeze for longer storage: Portion the cooled butter chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a bit of space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on low heat.
- Reheat with care: Whether from fridge or freezer, warm the curry slowly over low heat, stirring often. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or additional cream to bring back its silky consistency.
- Label and date: For organized meal planning, label your containers with the date you cooked the dish. This way, you’ll know exactly how fresh your leftovers are and avoid any guesswork.
CONCLUSION
Whether you’re new to Indian-inspired cooking or a seasoned home cook looking for a vibrant yet uncomplicated dinner, this Butter Chicken Skillet checks all the boxes. It’s a fantastic blend of warm spices, tender chicken, and a creamy tomato sauce that comes together seamlessly in one pan. The recipe is beginner-friendly, taking just 15 minutes of preparation and around 30 minutes of cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend meals. As the rich flavors meld and intensify, you’ll find yourself eager for that first spoonful—and likely seconds, too! Feel free to print this article or save it for later; having this recipe at your fingertips means never missing out on a cozy, flavorful dinner that everyone will love.
In addition to being a delicious main dish on its own, this skillet meal pairs beautifully with a variety of sides like basmati rice, naan, or fresh salads, giving you plenty of options to customize your meal based on your mood and what’s in your pantry. Don’t forget to scroll down for a handy FAQ section below, where you can find answers to common questions about substitutions, storage tips, and more. If you give this Butter Chicken Skillet a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Drop a comment with your feedback, share any tweaks you made, or ask questions if you need help perfecting your next curry night. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with delicious aromas and joyful gatherings!
Butter Chicken Skillet
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of India with this Butter Chicken Skillet. Juicy chicken simmered in a creamy tomato sauce makes for a comforting meal that's easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter.
-
Add chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
-
In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onions are translucent.
-
Stir in the garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook for about 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.
-
Pour in the tomato puree, stirring well to combine the spices. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
-
Return the chicken to the skillet and stir well, ensuring all pieces are coated with the sauce.
-
Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
-
Add the lemon juice and give it a final stir.
-
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Note
- Serve with basmati rice or warm naan for a complete meal.
- Adjust the level of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated, as the flavors meld beautifully over time.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk for heavy cream.
