Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) Recipe
Butter Chicken isn’t just a dish—it’s a hug in a bowl. Tender, spice-kissed chicken simmers in a rich, buttery, tomato-based sauce that tastes downright luxurious. This dish delivers restaurant-level indulgence without the mystery of takeout. Creamy, smoky, and lusciously spiced, it pairs perfectly with naan or fragrant basmati rice. Cooking it at home means no watered-down flavors, no overpriced bills, and zero regrets. Marinate the chicken, let the sauce work its magic, and watch your kitchen smell like heaven. Ready to ditch bland meals? Let’s make Butter Chicken the way it’s meant to be.
Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) Recipe
Marinated chicken chunks seared and simmered in a velvety butter-tomato sauce with bold spices and a creamy finish.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 chicken breasts cubed
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
For the Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger grated
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups tomato puree
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon sugar balances acidity
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken by mixing it with yogurt, lemon juice, and spices. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (overnight for better flavor).
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter, then cook the chicken until golden and slightly charred. Set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until soft and fragrant.
- Add the dry spices, stirring for 30 seconds to release their flavors.
- Pour in tomato puree and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Lower heat, then stir in cream and sugar, creating a rich, velvety sauce.
- Return the chicken to the pan and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with naan or basmati rice.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)
- Vitamin A: 20%
- Iron: 14%
- Calcium: 12%
- Vitamin C: 16%
- Potassium: 18%
Extra Tips for the Best Butter Chicken
- Marinate longer for deeper flavor.
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Grill the chicken for a smoky touch.
- Balance the spice with an extra dash of sugar if needed.
- Don’t skimp on butter—it’s in the name for a reason.
