Indian Butter Chicken

Indian Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a rich and creamy dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a silky tomato-butter sauce with aromatic spices. This beloved North Indian classic is known for its luxurious texture and subtle balance of flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the depth of traditional Indian spices with the smoothness of butter and cream, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. It is ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or simply when you crave restaurant-quality Indian cuisine at home. The method is straightforward, and the result is consistently satisfying — with succulent chicken enveloped in a luscious sauce that pairs beautifully with rice or naan.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• Plain yogurt

• Lemon juice

• Garlic, minced

• Fresh ginger, minced

• Ground cumin

• Ground coriander

• Garam masala

• Chili powder or paprika

• Butter

• Onion, finely chopped

• Tomato purée or crushed tomatoes

• Heavy cream

• Salt

• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)

directions

1. In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and chili powder. Add the chicken pieces, coat thoroughly, and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight.

2. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until lightly browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

3. In the same pan, add more butter if needed and sauté onions until golden. Stir in tomato purée and simmer for 5–7 minutes to develop flavor.

4. Return the chicken to the pan and mix well with the tomato base. Cook for 10–12 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Marination time: 1 hour (minimum)
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

• Replace chicken with paneer for a vegetarian adaptation.

• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.

• Incorporate a handful of cashew paste into the sauce for extra richness.

• Use ghee instead of butter for a more traditional taste.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How spicy is Indian Butter Chicken?

It is typically mild, but the spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili powder.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, bone-in chicken works well, but it may require longer cooking to ensure the meat is tender.

Is butter chicken the same as chicken tikka masala?

They are similar but distinct — butter chicken is creamier and less tangy, with a stronger emphasis on butter and cream.

Can I make butter chicken without cream?

Yes, you can substitute coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.

What type of tomatoes should I use?

Tomato purée or well-blended crushed tomatoes provide the smoothest sauce.

Can I marinate the chicken for less than an hour?

While possible, marinating for at least an hour enhances flavor significantly.

Can I make it in advance?

Yes, butter chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight.

What can I serve with butter chicken?

It pairs well with basmati rice, naan, paratha, or even quinoa for a lighter option.

Can I cook it in a slow cooker?

Yes, marinate the chicken, then cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, adding cream at the end.

Can I make it without onions?

Yes, though onions contribute sweetness and depth; you can omit them and adjust seasonings to taste.

Conclusion

Indian Butter Chicken is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Its creamy, spiced sauce and tender chicken create an irresistible combination that appeals to a wide range of palates. Whether served for a festive occasion or a weeknight meal, it delivers restaurant-level satisfaction in every bite

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