There’s something truly heartwarming about the aroma of Butter Chicken wafting through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to the vibrant streets of India. This dish, known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved comfort food that never fails to impress—whether you’re whipping it up for a casual family dinner or showcasing your culinary skills for guests.
With its rich, creamy sauce hugging tender chicken pieces, this recipe shines with everyday ingredients you likely already have on hand. What I adore about this dish is how it balances flavor and ease, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Plus, its mild spice level ensures that it’s a crowd-pleaser, welcoming all to the table with open arms. Dive into this culinary delight and discover just how simple it is to create an authentic Indian feast right in your own kitchen!
Why is Butter Chicken a must-try?
Comforting warmth: This dish wraps you in a cozy embrace, thanks to its creamy sauce and tender chicken.
Easy preparation: Made with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for home cooks of all levels.
Crowd-pleaser: The mild yet rich flavor appeals to both kids and adults, making it a hit at any gathering.
Versatile option: Pair it with rice, naan, or even veggies for a complete meal.
Quick cooking time: Ready in under an hour, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Don’t forget to check out my recipe for no-yeast flatbread to elevate your dining experience!
Essential Butter Chicken Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Plain Yoghurt – Acts as a marinade that tenderizes chicken beautifully; Greek yogurt can be used for a thicker texture.
• Lemon Juice – Adds a refreshing acidity that balances the richness of the dish; vinegar is a suitable alternative in smaller amounts.
• Turmeric Powder – Provides a warm color and subtle earthy flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Garam Masala – This essential spice blend is the key flavor component, easily found in most grocery stores.
• Chili Powder – Introduces a mild heat; consider using cayenne pepper if you’re seeking a spicier kick.
• Ground Cumin – Elevates complexity and depth in flavor, making this a richer dish overall.
• Ginger – Freshly grated ginger infuses aromatic warmth, making each bite delightful.
• Garlic – Crushed garlic releases robust flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
For the Sauce
• Chicken Thigh Fillets – The star of the dish, retaining moisture for tender bites; feel free to swap in chicken breasts or paneer for a vegetarian twist.
• Ghee or Butter – Rich cooking fats that deepen the flavor; substitute with neutral oils like vegetable oil for a lighter option.
• Tomato Passata – Forms the base of your sauce, adding sweetness and richness; pureed canned tomatoes work well if you’re out.
• Heavy Cream – Delivers that luxurious creaminess; use a blend of light cream and milk for a lighter version.
• Sugar – Helps to balance the natural acidity from the tomatoes, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning; remember to adjust it to your taste preference.
To Serve
• Basmati or White Rice – Perfectly fluffy rice complements the flavors of Butter Chicken beautifully; it’s optional but recommended for a complete meal.
Now that you have all the vital ingredients ready, let’s move on to creating this delightful Butter Chicken that’s sure to warm the heart and satisfy the soul!
How to Make Butter Chicken
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Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix plain yoghurt, lemon juice, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, ground cumin, grated ginger, crushed garlic, and chicken thigh fillets. Coat the chicken well and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to maximize flavor and tenderness.
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Cook Chicken: Heat ghee or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 3 minutes on each side.
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Make Sauce: Stir in the tomato passata, heavy cream, sugar, remaining marinade, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cook for 20 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.
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Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh coriander or cilantro before serving. Pair it with fluffy basmati rice for a satisfying meal.
Optional: Serve with warm naan bread for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Butter Chicken
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Marination Time: Longer is better: Marinating the chicken overnight lets the flavors penetrate deeply, leading to a more tender and flavorful Butter Chicken.
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Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding: Cooking chicken in batches ensures even cooking and browning. Overcrowding the pan can result in steaming rather than searing!
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Texture Matters: Blend for silkiness: For a smoother sauce, consider blending the marinade ingredients before adding them to the chicken. It enhances the texture beautifully.
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Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt at the end. The balance between the creaminess and spices is key to a successful Butter Chicken.
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Sauce Thickness: Simmer slowly: If your sauce seems too thin, let it simmer longer on low heat. This helps it thicken while enriching the flavors, creating that luxurious finish.
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Serving Suggestions: Complement well: Serve Butter Chicken with fluffy basmati rice, naan, or a side of cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
How to Store and Freeze Butter Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Butter Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Portion into single servings for easy reheating later.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot. You may need to add a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with fresh rice or naan after reheating to elevate your meal experience!
Make Ahead Options
Butter Chicken is perfect for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to enjoy a comforting dish with minimal last-minute effort. You can marinate the chicken in the yogurt mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Just remember to refrigerate the marinated chicken to maintain its flavors and tenderness. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce (without the cream) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; simply reheat gently before adding the heavy cream and simmering. When you’re ready to serve, cook the marinated chicken, then stir in the prepared sauce, and finish with cream. This means you can savor delicious, homemade Butter Chicken with ease at any time!
Butter Chicken Variations
Customize your Butter Chicken masterpiece with these delightful twists that will make it uniquely yours!
- Vegetarian: Swap chicken for paneer or chickpeas for a hearty, plant-based option that keeps all the rich flavors intact.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, like the spices and tomato passata, are certified gluten-free, making it safe for those with sensitivities.
- Creamy Coconut: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a tropical twist that adds both creaminess and subtle sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding diced green chilies or more chili powder to the sauce for an exciting flavor boost.
- Veggie-Packed: Stir in chopped spinach, peas, or bell peppers during the sauce-making step, incorporating bright colors and extra nutrients.
- Tandoori Style: Marinate the chicken in tandoori spices for a smoky depth, grilling or broiling it before adding to the sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Nutty Goodness: Add almond or cashew cream in place of heavy cream for a unique nutty flavor that will complement the dish beautifully.
- Curry Fusion: Blend in curry leaves or a hint of curry powder towards the end of cooking for an aromatic twist that elevates your Butter Chicken further.
Explore these variations to add an extra layer of excitement and flavor to your Butter Chicken—each bite will be an adventure!
What to Serve with Butter Chicken?
Bring your meal to life with tantalizing sides and pairings!
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Fluffy Basmati Rice: The perfect canvas for scooping up the creamy sauce, its subtle flavors enhance the butter chicken experience.
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Warm Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy, it’s ideal for wiping up every last bite of sauce. Add garlic or butter for an extra indulgent touch.
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Cucumber Tomato Salad: A refreshing contrast, this salad’s crunch and acidity balance the richness of the curry perfectly.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green florets add both nutrition and color to your plate, keeping the meal vibrant and healthy.
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Spiced Chai or Mint Tea: Sipping on these beverages between bites elevates the meal with gentle spice and aromatic notes.
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Mango Chutney: Sweet and tangy, this condiment complements the flavors of the butter chicken while adding a delicious zing.
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Lentil Dahl: Creamy lentils offer a hearty side, blending seamlessly with your main dish while promoting a wholesome, balanced meal.
Keep these pairings in mind, and you’ll create a memorable dining experience that showcases the warmth and richness of Butter Chicken!
Butter Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! For Butter Chicken, I recommend using chicken thigh fillets because they remain juicy and tender during cooking. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless chicken breasts work well too, but be mindful that they may dry out more easily. Just be sure to marinate them properly to enhance moisture.
What’s the best way to store leftover Butter Chicken?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool down completely before sealing, as this helps to lock in freshness. Reheat gently on the stovetop to enjoy that creamy sauce again!
Can I freeze Butter Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Butter Chicken for longer storage! Carefully portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.
How can I fix a runny Butter Chicken sauce?
If your sauce turns out too runny, don’t worry! Simply let it simmer on low heat for a little longer, which will help it thicken up nicely. You can also stir in a mix of cornstarch and water (a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water) and let it cook for another couple of minutes. This will create the perfect velvety consistency.
Is Butter Chicken suitable for my gluten-intolerant guests?
Very! The traditional Butter Chicken recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no flour or gluten-based ingredients. Just ensure that the cream and any condiments you serve with it are also gluten-free. It’s always good to check labels for any hidden gluten in sauces or packaged products!
Can I make Butter Chicken vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, you can substitute chicken with paneer or tofu, and use coconut cream or a cashew cream blend instead of heavy cream. Plant-based yoghurt provides a great marinade for the tofu or paneer. Veggies like spinach or chickpeas can also be added for extra nutrition and flavor. Enjoy experimenting!
Heavenly Butter Chicken: Easy Recipe for Comfort Food Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix plain yoghurt, lemon juice, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, ground cumin, grated ginger, crushed garlic, and chicken thigh fillets. Coat the chicken well and refrigerate for at least 3 hours (or overnight) to maximize flavor and tenderness.
- Heat ghee or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Cook until chicken is no longer pink, about 3 minutes on each side.
- Stir in the tomato passata, heavy cream, sugar, remaining marinade, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cook for 20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh coriander or cilantro before serving.