Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is one of my all-time favorite dishes. This Indian classic features tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce that is bursting with flavor. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Let me share my detailed recipe for Butter Chicken, along with some tips and tricks to make it your own!
Why You’ll Love Butter Chicken
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of butter, cream, and spices creates a luscious sauce that is simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish even if you’re not an experienced cook.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, Butter Chicken is always a hit.
- Pairs Well with Many Sides: Serve it with rice, naan, or roti for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Butter Chicken:
For the Marinade:
- 1 pound (450g) 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 cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons sugar (to balance acidity)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat them in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces (discard any leftover marinade) and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté the chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Cream
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Then stir in the heavy cream and sugar. Mix well until everything is combined.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and simmer for another 5–10 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your Butter Chicken with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread!
Serving Suggestions
Here are some great ways to serve Butter Chicken:
- With Rice: Serve over fluffy basmati rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.
- With Naan: Use warm naan bread to scoop up the chicken and sauce—it’s heavenly!
- As Part of a Thali: Include other Indian dishes like dal (lentils), raita (yogurt sauce), and vegetable curry for a complete meal.
Tips for Customization
Feel free to adapt this recipe to suit your tastes:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with paneer (Indian cheese) or mixed vegetables like bell peppers and cauliflower.
- Add Nuts: For extra richness, stir in some ground cashews or almonds into the sauce.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs About Butter Chicken
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breasts work well too; just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out more easily than thighs.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Butter Chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Just reheat gently on low heat before serving.
Is Butter Chicken spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted according to your taste. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of chili powder.
Can I freeze Butter Chicken?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
