What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade butter chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. You’ll love how the tender chicken blends perfectly with the rich, creamy sauce. It’s quick to prepare**, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying. The flavors are restaurant-quality, but you’ll know exactly what’s in it—no mystery ingredients here. Plus, it’s customizable**, so you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Recipe
Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a classic Indian dish known for its rich, creamy tomato-based sauce and tender pieces of chicken. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to making this flavorful dish at home.
Ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken, cut into cubes
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Marinate the chicken with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan and sauté the marinated chicken until it is cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
- Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
- Stir in the heavy cream and butter, and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cooked chicken pieces to the sauce and let it simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
Notes:
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder.
- Adjust the cream quantity to achieve your desired consistency.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Frying pan
- Blender (for tomato puree)
- Spatula
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cuisine:
Indian
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
Butter chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that is also relatively high in calories and fat. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade butter chicken with fluffy basmati rice, as it soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly. Garlic naan bread is another favorite of mine, adding a warm, garlicky flavor that complements the dish so well. Trust me, these sides turn the meal into something truly special!
Fluffy Basmati Rice
When you’re making butter chicken, pairing it with fluffy basmati rice is a no-brainer. The fragrant, long grains perfectly soak up the rich, creamy sauce, adding a light, airy texture to each bite. I always rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring it stays separate and fluffy. When it’s simmering on the stove, the aroma fills the kitchen, making the whole meal feel extra special. I love adding a pinch of salt and a cardamom pod for a subtle, aromatic twist. It’s simple yet so satisfying, just like the dish itself. Trust me, it’s worth the small effort!
Garlic Naan Bread
Garlic naan bread is another fantastic side that pairs beautifully with butter chicken, adding a warm, chewy texture and a burst of garlicky flavor. I love how it’s soft yet slightly crisp on the edges, perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce. Making it at home is easier than you’d think—just knead some dough, brush it with garlic butter, and cook it in a hot pan. Trust me, the smell alone is worth it. It’s my go-to when I want something comforting and satisfying. Plus, tearing off pieces and scooping up the chicken makes every bite feel like a tiny celebration.
