I’ve always loved how butter chicken brings together tender chicken and a rich, creamy sauce in such a comforting way. It’s a dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to make, especially with a few key spices like garam masala. The first time I tried it, I was blown away by how the flavors melded together so perfectly. If you’re curious about how to recreate this restaurant favorite at home, there’s a secret step that makes all the difference.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Butter Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of rich flavors and simplicity, making it a favorite for any occasion.
- Creamy and Flavorful: The luscious tomato-based sauce with a hint of spices creates a mouthwatering dish.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginners can master this classic recipe.
- Versatile: Pair it with naan, rice, or your favorite side for a complete meal.
Recipe
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a rich and creamy Indian dish that has gained global popularity. This recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a luscious tomato-based sauce, infused with aromatic spices and finished with a touch of cream. Perfect for a comforting meal, it pairs wonderfully with naan or steamed rice.
Ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Marinate the chicken with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a pan and cook the marinated chicken until lightly browned. Set aside.
- In the same pan, melt butter and sauté onions until golden. Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.
- Add garam masala, sugar, and salt. Stir in the cooked chicken and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour in the cream, mix well, and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Notes:
- For a smokier flavor, grill the marinated chicken before adding it to the sauce.
- Adjust the cream quantity to control the richness of the dish.
Time:
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Serving: 4
Calories: ~450 per serving
Cuisine: Indian
Equipment
To prepare butter chicken, having the right equipment guarantees a smooth cooking process and perfect results. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Tongs or serving spoon
Nutrition
Butter chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that offers a balance of protein, fats, and essential nutrients. While indulgent, it can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
- High in protein from chicken, supporting muscle repair and growth.
- Contains healthy fats from butter and cream, providing energy.
- Rich in vitamins like B6 and B12 from chicken, aiding metabolism.
- Includes antioxidants from spices like turmeric and ginger.
- Moderate in calories, making it a satisfying meal option.
What to Serve With This Recipe
When I make butter chicken, I love pairing it with fragrant rice varieties like basmati or jasmine, as they soak up the sauce perfectly. Warm, fluffy naan bread is another must, and I always add a fresh veggie side or salad for balance. A cool, creamy raita on the side ties everything together for a satisfying meal.
Rice Varieties
Though butter chicken is delicious on its own, I always think it’s best paired with rice that can soak up all that rich, creamy sauce. My go-to is fragrant Basmati rice, but I also love using Jasmine rice for its slightly floral notes. If I’m feeling healthier, I’ll opt for nutty Brown rice or even earthy Wild rice for a unique twist. Each variety adds its own delicious charm!
Naan Bread
There’s nothing quite like a warm, fluffy piece of naan bread to complete a butter chicken meal. I love experimenting with naan techniques, like brushing it with garlic butter or cooking it in a hot skillet for that perfect char. Naan variations, such as adding herbs or stuffing it with cheese, make it even more special. It’s the ideal companion to soak up every bit of that rich, creamy sauce.
Vegetable Sides
To balance the richness of butter chicken, I always like to include a few fresh vegetable sides that add color and crunch to the meal. Sautéed greens, like spinach or kale, cook quickly and keep things light. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots or cauliflower, caramelize beautifully and bring sweetness to the plate. Both options are easy to prepare and complement the dish perfectly, making the meal feel complete.
Salad Options
Why not add a fresh salad to your butter chicken meal? I love balancing the rich, creamy flavors with crisp fresh greens like spinach, arugula, or romaine. To keep it exciting, try fun flavor combinations—think cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Adding a handful of toasted nuts or seeds gives it a nice crunch. It’s light, invigorating, and the perfect side for this hearty dish!
Raita Pairing
While a fresh salad adds a crisp contrast to butter chicken, I also love cooling things down with a creamy raita. There are so many raita types to choose from, like cucumber, mint, or even pineapple, each offering unique flavor combinations. My favorite is a simple yogurt and cucumber raita with a hint of cumin—it’s tangy, rejuvenating, and balances the rich spices perfectly. It’s a must-try!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Heavy Cream?
I’d say yes, you can use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. It’s thicker and tangier, so I’d adjust the amount to avoid overpowering the dish. I’d also mix it well for a smoother texture.
Is Butter Chicken Gluten-Free?
Charting the culinary world’s twists and turns, I’ve learned gluten-free alternatives can transform dishes into safe havens. Cooking for allergies, I verify ingredients align, steering clear of gluten, making meals like butter chicken worry-free and delicious.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
I always focus on proper storing techniques to keep leftovers fresh. I use airtight containers and refrigerate them within two hours. Leftover uses include reheating for meals or repurposing into new dishes to avoid waste.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
I think slow cookers are like a trusty co-pilot—steady and dependable. You can definitely adapt recipes to one, but I’d tweak a few recipe adjustments to make the most of the slow cooker benefits.
What’S the Difference Between Butter Chicken and Tikka Masala?
I know butter chicken and tikka masala seem similar, but they’ve got key differences. The chicken preparation varies—tikka masala uses grilled chicken, while butter chicken’s cooked in a tandoor. Their spice variations also make their flavors distinct.
