Butter Chicken Recipe

Butter Chicken Recipe

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a rich and creamy Indian curry made with tender marinated chicken cooked in a flavorful tomato-butter-cream sauce. Originating from Delhi in the 1950s, this globally loved dish features a perfect balance of mild spices, creaminess, and a hint of sweetness. The chicken is first marinated in yogurt and spices for ultimate tenderness, then simmered in a buttery, spiced tomato sauce. Serve it with naan or basmati rice for an irresistible meal that’s both comforting and indulgent!

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 30

Total Time 1 30

Servings: 4 people

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Indian

Calories: 180

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

500 g boneless chicken cut into pieces
3 tbsp yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
½ tsp turmeric powder
Salt to taste

For the Sauce

3 tbsp butter
1 onion finely chopped
2 garlic cloves minced
1- inch ginger minced
2 tomatoes pureed
½ cup cream
¼ tsp fenugreek leaves optional

Method

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

To make Butter Chicken soft and full of flavour, mix it with yoghurt, lemon juice, and spices. Let it rest for 30 minutes or, for the best results, overnight.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Heat butter in a pan.
Add onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until soft and golden.
Pour in pureed tomatoes and simmer until the sauce thickens.
Stir in garam masala, cumin, and coriander for flavour.
Add cream and fenugreek leaves to make it creamy and rich.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the sauce.
Cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes.
Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Add water if the sauce is too thick.
Once the chicken is soft and cooked, serve hot!

Notes

What to Serve with Butter Chicken

1. Naan Bread

Naan is soft, warm bread that’s perfect for dipping into the creamy Butter Chicken sauce. You can choose plain naan, garlic naan, or butter naan for extra flavour.

2. Basmati Rice

Basmati rice is fluffy and light. It’s great for soaking up the delicious Butter Chicken sauce, making each bite even better.

3. Raita

Raita is a cool, refreshing side made with yoghurt, cucumber, and some spices. It helps balance the spices in the Butter Chicken.

4. Jeera Rice

Jeera rice is rice cooked with cumin, giving it a nice, mild flavour. It’s a tasty side to go with Butter Chicken.

5. Vegetable Side Dish

You can serve some cooked vegetables, like a veggie curry or sautéed spinach, to add some freshness to your meal.

6. Salad

A simple salad with cucumber, tomato, and onions can add some crunch and freshness to balance out the creamy Butter Chicken.

7. Papadums

Papadums are crispy, crunchy snacks that are fun to eat with Butter Chicken. They add a crunchy bite and make your meal more exciting!

These sides make your Butter Chicken meal complete, adding extra flavours and textures!