Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)

If you’re looking for a dish that will instantly transport you to a cozy Indian kitchen, this Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani) is just the ticket! Bursting with flavor and warmth, this creamy curry is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It has become a favorite in my home, thanks to its rich sauce and tender chicken that seem to melt in your mouth. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for anyone who loves delicious comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress. The delightful combination of spices creates a dish that’s not just tasty but also inviting. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together around the table, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and tender chicken appeal to both kids and adults alike, making it a hit for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time or even prepare the sauce in advance for easy reheating later.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The unique blend of spices brings out incredible flavors that transform simple ingredients into something special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need for this comforting Butter Chicken Recipe:

For the Marinade:

• 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs (chopped into bite-sized pieces; chicken breast is good, too)
• 2 tablespoons grated garlic
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (Kashmeri chili powder is traditional, but paprika works well)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided (or use butter or ghee)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 red pepper, chopped (I used a long red cayenne, but feel free to use your favorite)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon spicy red chili flakes (optional)
• 14 ounces tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 cup heavy cream (or use ½ cup milk and ½ cup cream for a lighter version)

Variations

One of the best things about this Butter Chicken Recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist on this classic dish.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas for extra nutrition and color.
• Adjust the heat: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of red chili powder or omit the spicy flakes.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and use plant-based yogurt for a delightful dairy-free version.

How to Make Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken with garlic, ginger, spices, yogurt, and lemon juice. This step infuses flavor into the meat and helps keep it tender during cooking. Letting it sit for at least 15 minutes makes a noticeable difference!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. This brings out their natural sweetness and forms a flavorful base for your sauce.

Step 3: Build Your Sauce

Add the chopped red pepper along with minced garlic and fresh ginger into the skillet. Cook until fragrant. Then stir in garam masala, cumin, red chili powder, salt, and pepper. Toasting these spices releases their essential oils and enhances their flavors before adding any liquids.

Step 4: Combine with Tomato Sauce

Pour in your tomato sauce along with honey. Stir everything together well. Let it simmer gently so that all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Finally, lower the heat and stir in heavy cream (or your lighter alternative). Allowing it to simmer again thickens up your sauce while creating that signature creamy texture that makes butter chicken so irresistible.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once everything’s combined nicely, serve your Butter Chicken hot over rice or with naan bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy every spoonful because you’ve just created an incredible meal filled with love and spice!

Pro Tips for Making Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)

Cooking is all about learning and experimenting, so let’s make your butter chicken not just good, but truly memorable!

• Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices pack more flavor than pre-ground ones, making your dish aromatic and vibrant.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of chili powder based on your heat preference. This way, you can cater to both spice lovers and those who prefer milder flavors.
• Simmer for depth: Letting the sauce simmer longer helps meld the flavors beautifully. Just be sure not to let it boil too vigorously!
• Finish with cream: Adding cream at the end gives a luxurious texture and balances out any spices, creating that signature creamy finish.

How to Serve Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)

Serving your butter chicken can be as delightful as cooking it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation pop.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich sauce.
• Lemon wedges: Serving with lemon wedges allows guests to squeeze a bit of brightness over their portions, enhancing flavors beautifully.
• Toasted cashews or almonds: A handful of toasted nuts provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy sauce, elevating both texture and taste.

Side Dishes

• Basmati rice: The fluffy grains soak up the flavorful sauce perfectly, making each bite a delicious experience.
• Naan bread: Soft, pillowy naan is ideal for scooping up the curry, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
• Roasted vegetables: A side of seasonal roasted veggies adds color and nutrition while keeping the meal balanced.
• Cucumber raita: This cool yogurt-based side helps counterbalance the heat from the spices in your butter chicken, creating a refreshing contrast.

Enjoy crafting this delicious Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani) for your next meal! Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butter Chicken Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a big batch, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when you’re planning meals in advance. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious butter chicken.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Let the dish cool completely before sealing.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the butter chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this Butter Chicken Recipe!

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)?

Yes! Chicken breast works well too. Just remember that it may cook faster than thighs, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

What spices are essential in this Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)?

The key spices include garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and red chili powder. Together they create that signature flavor profile that makes this dish so special!

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Use dairy-free yogurt for marinating the chicken.

How spicy is this Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)?

The spice level is adjustable based on your preference. You can reduce the amount of red chili powder or omit the chili flakes if you prefer a milder dish.

What can I serve with Butter Chicken?

This curry pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with rich flavors and comforting warmth. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it on your own, I’m sure it will bring smiles all around. Happy cooking!