Butter Chicken Recipe: A Rich, Creamy Indian Classic

Byarlo Jack
Butter Chicken Recipe: A Rich, Creamy Indian Classic

Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is one of the most popular Indian dishes enjoyed worldwide. With its velvety tomato-based sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic spices, it offers a perfect balance of richness and comfort. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dinner party, this dish is guaranteed to be a showstopper.

Why You’ll Love This Butter Chicken

The magic of butter chicken lies in its balance of flavors—creamy yet tangy, mildly spiced yet deeply flavorful. It’s incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with naan, rice, or even pasta. Plus, the ingredients are easily available, and the recipe can be made at home without needing professional cooking skills. Every bite is a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to butter chicken, fresh and quality ingredients make all the difference. The list may look long, but most are common pantry staples or easily found in local grocery stores. These ingredients work together to create that iconic creamy, spiced sauce and juicy chicken pieces that make the dish unforgettable.

  • 500g boneless chicken (thighs or breasts), cut into chunks
  • 3 tbsp butter (unsalted)
  • 2 tbsp cooking oil
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch ginger, minced
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Condensed Grocery Checklist 🛒

If you’re short on time, here’s a streamlined shopping list so you can grab everything in one quick trip. Think of it as your fast-track to a delicious butter chicken dinner without forgetting any key ingredients.

  • Boneless chicken
  • Butter
  • Cooking oil
  • Tomato puree
  • Heavy cream
  • Plain yogurt
  • Onion
  • Garlic & ginger
  • Garam masala, cumin, paprika, chili powder, turmeric
  • Lemon
  • Salt
  • Fresh coriander

Nutritional Information

Butter chicken is indulgent but can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. The cream and butter add richness, while the chicken provides a solid protein boost. Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving, so you know exactly what you’re enjoying.

  • Calories: ~420 kcal
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 6g

Time Breakdown

Butter chicken may look like a gourmet dish, but it doesn’t require all day in the kitchen. With some organization, you can prepare it in under an hour.

  • Preparation: 15 minutes
  • Cooking: 35 minutes
  • Total: ~50 minutes

Step-by-Step Method

Cooking butter chicken is a joyful process—marinating the chicken, slow-cooking the sauce, and watching it all come together into a silky masterpiece. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish ready to serve.

  1. Marinate the chicken – In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).
  2. Cook the chicken – Heat oil and 1 tbsp butter in a pan, cook chicken until golden but not fully done, then set aside.
  3. Make the sauce – In the same pan, melt remaining butter, sauté onions until soft, then add garlic, ginger, and spices. Cook until fragrant.
  4. Add tomatoes & simmer – Stir in tomato puree and simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Blend for smoothness – Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender for a silky sauce. Return to pan.
  6. Finish the dish – Stir in cream, add chicken back, and simmer until fully cooked and tender. Adjust seasoning.
  7. Garnish & serve – Sprinkle with fresh coriander and serve hot with naan or rice.

Ingredient Swaps & Custom Variations

One of the best parts about butter chicken is how adaptable it is. You can tweak the recipe to fit your diet, preferences, or pantry availability without losing its charm.

  • Chicken substitute – Use paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.
  • Dairy-free – Swap cream with coconut cream and butter with vegan butter.
  • Extra spice – Add chopped green chilies for a fiery kick.
  • Light version – Use milk instead of cream for a lighter sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Butter chicken is a dish that deserves the right companions. The right sides can elevate the experience and make it even more satisfying.

  • Naan bread (garlic or butter naan)
  • Steamed basmati rice
  • Jeera rice (cumin-flavored)
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Fresh salad with cucumber and onions

Storage Instructions

Butter chicken stores well, making it a great make-ahead meal. The flavors deepen as it sits, so leftovers might taste even better the next day.

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Kid-Friendly Tips

Butter chicken’s mild flavor and creamy texture make it popular with kids. You can make it even more family-friendly with a few tweaks.

  • Reduce or omit chili powder.
  • Serve with extra naan for dipping.
  • Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  • Add a little honey for subtle sweetness.

Chef’s Special Tips

Small adjustments can take your butter chicken from good to unforgettable. Here’s how to get the best results.

  • Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
  • Use chicken thighs for juicier meat.
  • Toast spices before adding liquids to release their aroma.
  • Garnish with a swirl of cream for a restaurant-style look.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Butter chicken is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience of warm, comforting flavors that bring people together. With this step-by-step guide, you can recreate this beloved dish in your own kitchen with confidence. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to serve a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal because they stay juicy and tender during cooking. You can also use chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat, but thighs provide better flavor and texture.

Yes, though yogurt helps tenderize the chicken and adds creaminess. You can substitute with buttermilk or a mixture of cream and lemon juice for a similar effect.

Butter chicken is generally mildly spiced with a rich, creamy sauce. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder or fresh chilies according to your preference.

Yes, butter chicken freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Butter chicken pairs perfectly with basmati rice, naan bread, or roti. It also goes well with simple vegetable sides like sautéed spinach or roasted cauliflower.

Using heavy cream and butter is key to a rich, smooth sauce. Simmer gently and stir frequently to avoid curdling. Adding tomato puree also helps create a velvety texture.