January 28, 2025

How to Make Butter Chicken Recipe

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About Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken Recipe, or Murgh Makhani, is a deliciously creamy and spiced dish that has won over fans all around the globe. This classic Indian recipe stands out because it features tender, marinated chicken enveloped in a rich, buttery tomato sauce, making it the perfect comfort food. Whether served with naan, rice, or savored on its own, butter chicken is always a hit. Follow this easy step-by-step guide to make this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen!

Ingredients for Butter Chicken Recipe

This recipe serves 4 people. Adjust quantities as needed.

For the Chicken Marinade

Chicken (Boneless, Thighs or Breasts): 500 grams, cut into bite-sized pieces
Yogurt: ½ cup (for tenderizing)
Ginger-Garlic Paste: 2 teaspoons
Turmeric Powder: ½ teaspoon
Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
Cumin Powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon

For the Gravy

Butter: 3 tablespoons (unsalted preferred)
Onions: 1 medium, finely chopped
Tomatoes: 4 medium, pureed (or 1 can of tomato puree)
Ginger-Garlic Paste: 2 teaspoons
Cashews: 8-10 (soaked and blended into a paste)
Heavy Cream: ½ cup (or fresh cream for a lighter option)
Garam Masala: 1 teaspoon
Kashmiri Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon (for color and mild heat)
Fenugreek Leaves (Kasuri Methi): 1 teaspoon, crushed
Salt: To taste
Honey or Sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional, for balancing the acidity)

For Garnish

Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
A drizzle of cream

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, cumin powder, salt, and lemon juice.
Add the chicken pieces and coat well with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best results).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a pan or grill with a little butter or oil.
Sear the marinated chicken on medium heat until slightly charred and cooked through. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Gravy

In a large pan, melt butter and sauté the onions until golden brown.
Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato puree and cook on medium heat until the oil separates from the mixture (about 8-10 minutes).
Add the cashew paste, garam masala, Kashmiri red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked chicken pieces to the gravy and simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in the cream and crushed fenugreek leaves. Adjust seasoning with a pinch of sugar or honey if needed.
Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with a drizzle of cream and chopped coriander leaves.
Serve hot with butter naan, steamed rice, or jeera rice.

Tips for Making the Best Butter Chicken

Tenderizing the Chicken: Yogurt and lemon juice in the marinade help tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.

Use Kashmiri Chili Powder: This adds a rich red color without making the dish too spicy.

Balance the Flavors: A touch of honey or sugar helps offset the tanginess of the tomatoes.

Cook the Gravy Slowly: Allow the spices to meld with the tomato base for a rich and flavorful sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Amount Per ServingCalories500
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 30g 39%
- Saturated Fat 10g 50%
Cholesterol 100mg 34%
Sodium 650mg 29%
Total Carbohydrate 12g 5%
- Dietary Fiber 3g 11%
- Total Sugars 4g
Protein 28g 57%

* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Note: Values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients.

Butter Chicken is a beloved dish that offers a burst of flavors in every mouthful. Its rich, creamy sauce and expertly spiced chicken make it a favorite around the globe. Whether you’re preparing it for family or friends, this recipe will have you feeling like a kitchen pro. Give it a try today and savor the taste of restaurant-quality butter chicken right at home!

Serving Suggestions

Butter chicken is best served:

Naan - Soft, pillowy flatbread that’s perfect for scooping up the buttery gravy. Garlic naan adds an extra layer of flavor.

Paratha - Flaky and slightly crispy flatbread that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Roti (Chapati) - A lighter, whole wheat option for those looking for a healthier pairing.

Basmati Rice - Fragrant, long-grain rice that complements the dish’s flavors without overpowering them.

Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice) - Adds an aromatic twist with cumin seeds and pairs well with the mild spice of Butter Chicken.

Pulao - Lightly spiced rice with peas or vegetables that adds a subtle flavor balance.

Checkout our chicken recipes

FAQs

Can I Make Butter Chicken Without Cream?
Yes! Use coconut milk or cashew cream as substitutes for a dairy-free option.

Is Butter Chicken Spicy?
It has mild heat, but you can adjust the chili powder to suit your spice tolerance.

What’s the Best Way to Serve Butter Chicken?
Pair it with butter naan, steamed rice, or jeera rice for a complete meal.

Can I Use Store-Bought Masala?
Absolutely! Store-bought garam masala or butter chicken masala works well for convenience.

How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or cream.