Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is one of the most beloved Indian dishes worldwide. It is a comforting blend of tender chicken simmered in a velvety tomato-based sauce enriched with butter and cream. The balance of warm spices, tangy tomatoes, and rich creaminess makes this dish incredibly satisfying. This recipe is designed to be simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. With pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can recreate restaurant-quality butter chicken in your own kitchen. The best part is its versatility—it pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or even a simple salad, making it a reliable favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken
Boneless chicken breast or thighs are ideal. Thighs remain tender and juicy after simmering, while breast meat is leaner.
Butter
The namesake ingredient lends richness and a silky texture to the sauce, making it smooth and luxurious.
Tomato Puree
A base of tomato puree gives the sauce its vibrant color and tangy flavor, balancing the creaminess.
Heavy Cream
Cream enriches the sauce, creating the signature velvety consistency butter chicken is famous for.
Onion
Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and body to the sauce, ensuring depth of flavor.
Garlic and Ginger
A combination of garlic and ginger infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and enhances the overall taste.
Spices
Ground cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder create the bold yet balanced flavor profile.
Yogurt
Used to marinate the chicken, yogurt tenderizes the meat and infuses it with spice.
Olive Oil or Ghee
Oil or ghee provides a cooking base for sautéing onions and spices, adding depth to the dish.
Fresh Cilantro
A garnish of fresh cilantro brightens the rich sauce and adds freshness to the final dish.
Directions
Begin by marinating the chicken in yogurt, garlic, ginger, and spices for at least 30 minutes. This ensures tender, flavorful meat. While the chicken marinates, prepare the sauce. In a large pan, heat oil or ghee, then add finely chopped onions. Cook until golden and softened. Stir in garlic, ginger, and ground spices, toasting them briefly until fragrant.
Add tomato puree and simmer until the sauce thickens and the raw tomato flavor fades. Stir in butter and cream, blending until the sauce turns rich and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and chili powder according to taste.
In a separate skillet, cook the marinated chicken until lightly browned, then transfer it into the simmering sauce. Allow everything to cook together for 10–15 minutes, letting the chicken absorb the flavors. Finish with a sprinkle of garam masala and fresh cilantro.
Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti for an authentic experience.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, marinating requires 30 minutes (or longer for best results), and cooking takes approximately 30 minutes. The total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Butter Chicken
Increase chili powder or add fresh green chilies for more heat.
Cashew Cream Sauce
Replace heavy cream with blended cashews for a dairy-free option that remains creamy.
Grilled Chicken Version
Grill the marinated chicken before adding to the sauce for a smoky depth of flavor.
Vegetarian Alternative
Swap chicken for paneer or tofu for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Low-Fat Butter Chicken
Use light cream or milk instead of heavy cream to reduce richness.
Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours for a hands-off version.
Coconut Butter Chicken
Replace cream with coconut milk for a slightly sweet, tropical twist.
Herb-Infused Butter Chicken
Add fresh mint or fenugreek leaves for a unique flavor layer.
Quick Weeknight Butter Chicken
Skip marination and use pre-cooked chicken for a faster meal.
Party-Style Butter Chicken
Double the recipe and serve in a large dish with naan for gatherings.
FAQs
Can I make butter chicken without cream?
Yes, you can use yogurt, cashew cream, or coconut milk as alternatives.
What’s the best chicken cut for butter chicken?
Boneless thighs are ideal because they stay tender and juicy.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, butter chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Is butter chicken very spicy?
Traditionally it is mild, but you can adjust spice levels to your preference.
Can I freeze butter chicken?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months when stored in airtight containers.
What is the difference between butter chicken and chicken tikka masala?
Butter chicken is creamier and richer, while chicken tikka masala has a spicier, tangier sauce.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of puree?
Yes, blend canned tomatoes into a smooth sauce before using.
What side dishes go best with butter chicken?
Steamed basmati rice, naan, roti, or a fresh cucumber salad pair well.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer longer or add a spoonful of ground cashews to thicken naturally.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Yes, simply add it to the sauce and simmer briefly until heated through.
Conclusion
Quick and easy homemade butter chicken delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the complexity. With tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and aromatic spices, this dish is a timeless favorite that works just as well for a casual family dinner as it does for entertaining guests. Its adaptability means you can adjust spice levels, use dairy-free options, or even prepare vegetarian variations. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find it hard to resist making it part of your regular meal rotation.
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