If you're craving that rich, creamy, and flavorful dish served in top Indian restaurants, you're in for a treat. This authentic Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) recipe brings the irresistible taste of North India right to your kitchen. Whether you're hosting guests or cooking a comforting dinner for your family, this crowd-pleaser is guaranteed to steal the spotlight.
Why This Butter Chicken Recipe Is the Best
✔️ Rich, creamy, and velvety texture
✔️ Deep flavors from marination and slow simmering
✔️ Uses easily available ingredients
✔️ Perfect with naan, paratha, or jeera rice
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Marination:
- 500g boneless chicken (preferably thighs)
- 1 cup thick curd/yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp lemon juice
For the Gravy:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp sugar (optional)
- ½ cup fresh cream
- 1 tbsp kasuri methi (dry fenugreek leaves)
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, turmeric, lemon juice, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan and grill or sauté the marinated chicken on medium-high heat until it’s slightly charred and cooked through. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Gravy
- In a clean pan, melt 2 tbsp butter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until raw smell disappears.
- Pour in tomato puree and let it cook until the oil begins to separate.
- Add cumin, coriander powder, salt, garam masala, and sugar. Mix well.
4. Combine Chicken and Gravy
- Add the cooked chicken to the gravy. Stir gently.
- Sprinkle kasuri methi and pour in fresh cream.
- Let it simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Add a small dollop of butter and a swirl of cream on top before serving.
- Best enjoyed with garlic naan, butter roti, or steamed basmati rice.
Tips for the Perfect Butter Chicken
- For a smoky flavor, add a piece of hot charcoal in a bowl placed over the cooked curry, drizzle with ghee, and cover for 2 minutes.
- Always use fresh cream—not milk—for that restaurant-like richness.
- If tomatoes are too tangy, balance with a pinch of sugar or a bit of honey.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fat: 28g
Note: Values are approximate and vary based on portion size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, bone-in chicken gives even more flavor but may take slightly longer to cook.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream instead of dairy cream and plant-based yogurt for marination.
Q: How long can I store Butter Chicken?
It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days and freezes well for 1 month.
Conclusion
This homemade Butter Chicken recipe combines the essence of traditional North Indian flavors with a modern twist of convenience. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this recipe will impress every time.
👉 Bookmark this recipe and make it a weekend favorite. Your family will thank you!
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