Butter Chicken Recipe (Authentic, Creamy, and Delicious)

Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a rich, creamy, and flavorful Indian classic loved worldwide. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and velvety tomato cream sauce makes it irresistible. Making butter chicken at home may seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and technique, you can recreate restaurant-quality flavors in your own kitchen.

This recipe focuses on layering flavors, marinating the chicken properly, and simmering it in a luscious sauce that’s balanced with spices, cream, and butter.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated

For the Butter Chicken Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon garam masala
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) tomato puree
• ½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ cup cashew cream for extra richness
• 1 teaspoon fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) for authentic flavor
• 1 teaspoon paprika for vibrant color

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, salt, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, cumin, garlic, and ginger.
Add chicken pieces and coat evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4–6 hours for best flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter or oil.
Sear the chicken pieces until lightly browned but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add oil.
Sauté onions until soft and golden.
Add garlic and ginger, cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in cumin, coriander, chili powder, turmeric, and garam masala. Toast spices for 30 seconds.
Add tomato puree, salt, and sugar. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the seared chicken to the sauce.
Simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender.
Stir in heavy cream (or coconut cream) and adjust seasoning.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of cream or butter if desired.
Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.

@chef_zouheir

Tips for the Best Butter Chicken

• Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat.
• Don’t skip marinating — it tenderizes the chicken and infuses flavor.
• Toast the spices to enhance their aroma.
• Adjust cream to taste for desired richness.
• For a smoky flavor, cook chicken over a grill or under a broiler before adding it to the sauce.

Variations

Keto Butter Chicken

Use heavy cream and avoid sugar. Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Coconut Butter Chicken

Substitute coconut cream for a slightly tropical, dairy-free version.

Spicy Butter Chicken

Add 1–2 chopped green chilies or extra chili powder for heat.

Cashew Butter Chicken

Blend ¼ cup soaked cashews with water to make a paste and stir into the sauce for extra creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over fluffy basmati rice
• Accompanied by warm naan or garlic roti
• Pair with a cucumber-yogurt salad for freshness
• Add pickled onions or a squeeze of lemon for brightness

Storage and Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent cream from curdling.

FAQs

Can I make butter chicken without cream?

Yes, use coconut milk or cashew cream as a dairy-free alternative.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may dry out; cook them just until tender.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. Butter chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more chili powder, fresh green chilies, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I freeze butter chicken?

Yes, freeze in portions and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Butter chicken is a timeless dish that combines comfort, richness, and exotic flavors. With this recipe, you can enjoy restaurant-quality butter chicken at home anytime.