Easy Butter Chicken Recipe: Butter Chicken, also known as “Murgh Makhani” in Hindi, is one of the most beloved and iconic dishes in Indian cuisine. It’s the kind of comfort food that never fails to impress—whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner or serving it to guests. This creamy, mildly spiced, and richly flavored dish features tender chicken pieces soaked in a velvety tomato-based sauce enriched with butter and cream.
Unlike many spicy Indian dishes, butter chicken is relatively mild, making it a great introductory dish for those new to Indian flavors. The richness of the sauce and the juiciness of the marinated chicken pieces work together to deliver a heavenly experience in every bite. When paired with hot naan or fragrant basmati rice, it becomes an irresistible meal.
Origin of the Dish
Butter chicken has its roots in Delhi, India. It was supposedly invented by chefs at the legendary Moti Mahal restaurant in the 1950s. The chefs needed a way to use leftover tandoori chicken, so they simmered it in a tomato-based curry loaded with butter and cream. And just like that, a culinary masterpiece was born!
Since then, the dish has exploded in popularity not just in India but all around the globe. From fine dining restaurants to home kitchens, butter chicken is a staple that brings the joy of Indian cooking to countless food lovers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s get your kitchen ready! The ingredients for butter chicken are simple and easily available in most grocery stores. Here’s what you’ll need.
Chicken Marinade Ingredients
Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor and tenderness. Here’s what goes into the marinade:
- 500g boneless chicken (preferably thighs or breast)
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt to taste
This marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also loads it with flavor that seeps deep into the meat. Marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best if you want maximum flavor!
Gravy Ingredients
The sauce is the heart of butter chicken. It’s rich, creamy, and super satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tbsp butter (unsalted preferred)
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups tomato puree (fresh or canned)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup fresh cream
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (to balance the tang of the tomatoes)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Handful of chopped coriander (for garnish)
Optional Garnishes and Pairings
- Fresh coriander leaves
- A dollop of cream
- Naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice
- Lemon wedges
Pair your butter chicken with fluffy naan or basmati rice, and you’re in for a flavor-packed meal that feels like a warm hug.
How to Make Butter Chicken – Step by Step Guide
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making restaurant-style butter chicken right in your own kitchen.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
First things first—get that chicken soaking in flavor. In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Toss in your chicken pieces and mix well to ensure every piece is coated.
Cover and let it rest in the fridge for at least one hour. If you can let it sit overnight, even better. This step ensures your chicken becomes tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Once marinated, it’s time to cook the chicken. You can either grill it, bake it, or pan-fry it.
For pan-frying (quick and easy method):
- Heat a pan with 1 tbsp oil on medium-high.
- Add the marinated chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook until golden brown and fully cooked inside. This usually takes about 5-6 minutes on each side depending on the thickness of the pieces.
Remove the cooked chicken and set it aside while you prepare the gravy.
Step 3: Prepare the Butter Chicken Gravy
In the same pan or a fresh one, melt the butter and add a tablespoon of oil. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden and translucent. This can take around 5-7 minutes.
Next, stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears. Now, add the tomato puree and cook on medium heat until the oil begins to separate. This usually takes 10-12 minutes.
Once the tomatoes are cooked, add in the spices—chili powder, cumin, coriander powder, and salt. Stir and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
Now, reduce the heat and stir in the cream. Add a bit of honey or sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Finally, sprinkle in the garam masala and give it a good mix.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Gravy
Now comes the best part—bringing everything together!
Gently add the cooked chicken pieces into the simmering gravy. Stir well so that every piece is generously coated with the creamy sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the gravy for 10-15 minutes on low heat. This helps the flavors mingle and creates that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Keep stirring occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. If the gravy becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water or a little more cream to adjust the consistency to your liking.
At this stage, your kitchen will be filled with the most inviting aroma. You’ll notice the butter and spices harmonize beautifully with the tomato base, and the chicken becomes tender and rich in flavor. This is your cue—you’re almost done!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and get ready to serve your delicious homemade butter chicken. Before serving, garnish with a drizzle of fresh cream and a sprinkle of chopped coriander leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Here are some serving suggestions:
- With Naan or Roti: Perfect for scooping up the creamy gravy.
- Over Steamed Basmati Rice: Ideal for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
- With Jeera Rice: Adds a subtle cumin aroma that complements the dish perfectly.
Pro tip: If you’re planning to impress guests, serve with a side of cucumber raita or a simple salad to balance out the richness of the curry.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
Substitutions and Variations
Not all kitchens are stocked the same, and that’s totally okay. Here are some easy swaps and twists you can try:
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of dairy cream. Swap butter with plant-based alternatives.
- No Yogurt?: Use sour cream or buttermilk in the marinade.
- No Chicken?: Substitute with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version that’s just as tasty.
- Add Nuts: Blend in soaked cashews or almonds for a thicker, nuttier gravy.
- Spice It Up: Want more heat? Add extra chili powder or green chilies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Marinade: This step is non-negotiable. It’s what gives the chicken its signature flavor and tenderness.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Especially if you’re using chicken breast, overcooking can make it dry. Keep an eye on it.
- Undercooked Tomatoes: Make sure you cook down the tomato puree until the oil separates. Raw tomatoes can leave a sour aftertaste.
- Adding Cream Too Early: If you add cream while the gravy is still boiling, it can curdle. Always reduce the heat before adding.
- Neglecting Balance: Always taste and adjust salt, spice, and sweetness. That balance is key to nailing the flavor.
FAQs about Easy Butter Chicken Recipe
1. What is Butter Chicken?
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a rich and creamy Indian dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a spiced tomato-based sauce and finished with butter and cream.
2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. However, chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, making them a preferred choice for this recipe.
3. How spicy is Butter Chicken?
Butter Chicken is mildly spiced. You can adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the amount of chili powder or using mild paprika.
4. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream with coconut milk and the butter with vegan butter or oil for a dairy-free version.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.
6. What should I serve with Butter Chicken?
It pairs perfectly with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of cucumber raita for a refreshing touch.
7. Can I make Butter Chicken in advance?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
8. Is Butter Chicken gluten-free?
Yes, the dish itself is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any store-bought ingredients (like garam masala) are certified gluten-free.
9. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Cook the marinated chicken and sauce on low for 4–6 hours, then stir in the butter and cream just before serving.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, Butter Chicken is great for meal prep or serving a crowd. Just double the ingredients and cook in a larger pot.
Conclusion
There you have it—a rich, flavorful, and surprisingly simple butter chicken recipe that you can whip up in your own kitchen. Whether it’s your first time making Indian food or you’re just looking for a reliable go-to, this dish ticks all the boxes. It’s creamy, comforting, full of flavor, and absolutely crowd-pleasing.
So next time you’re craving takeout, skip the delivery and treat yourself to some homemade butter chicken instead. It’s a labor of love, but the reward is well worth it. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Don’t forget to pair it with warm naan, a bowl of rice, and maybe even a cold mango lassi for the full experience. Happy cooking!
