The Ultimate Butter Chicken Recipe: Creamy and Flavorful

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is one of the most popular dishes in Indian cuisine. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and a variety of spices that make every bite an unforgettable experience. 

I recently made this dish, and I can confidently say it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special gathering, it’s bound to impress everyone at the table.

You might want to check out French Dip Sandwiches Recipe for a hearty meal. Let me walk you through this mouth-watering recipe and help you recreate this classic dish in your kitchen!

Ingredients for Butter Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need for this amazing Butter Chicken recipe. Each ingredient has been carefully selected to create a rich and flavorful dish.

• 500 g chicken breast – The main protein that will soak up all the wonderful flavors from the marinade and sauce.
• 1 tsp paprika powder – Adds a mild heat and a beautiful color to the dish.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice – Brings in a tangy freshness that balances the richness of the sauce.
• 1 tsp salt – Enhances all the other flavors and brings them together.
• 1 cup yogurt (150g) – Helps tenderize the chicken and adds creaminess to the marinade.
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper – Adds heat to the dish, adjust it according to your spice preference.
• 1 tbsp Garam Masala – This traditional Indian spice mix adds a depth of flavor and aroma.
• 1 garlic clove – Fresh garlic adds a pungent and earthy flavor to the dish.
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger – Offers a zingy, aromatic base to the sauce.
• 4 tbsp butter – The key ingredient for the rich and creamy sauce.
• 1 onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce when sautéed.
• 500 g tomato puree – The base of the sauce, bringing a fresh, tangy flavor.
• 1 tsp cinnamon – A warm spice that complements the creaminess of the dish.
• 1 tsp salt – For balancing all the spices in the sauce.
• 2 tsp cayenne pepper – Enhances the heat level, adjust to taste.
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger – Again, ginger enhances the flavor and richness.
• 1 garlic clove – Works well in both the marinade and the sauce.
• 1 tbsp honey – Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the spice.
• 150 ml heavy cream – Creates the rich, velvety texture in the sauce.
• A few coriander leaves – For garnishing and adding a fresh, herbal note.

Note: The ingredients listed here will serve about 4 people, perfect for a family meal. You can easily adjust the quantity based on your needs.

Variations for Butter Chicken

If you’re looking for alternative ingredients, here are a few variations you can try:

• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream. You can also substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Sugar-Free: Skip the honey or substitute with a sugar-free sweetener if you’re looking to reduce sugar content.
• Vegan: Replace the chicken with tofu or a plant-based protein, and use plant-based yogurt and cream to keep the dish vegan-friendly.
• Add-ins for Extra Flavor: You can enhance the flavor by adding a few more spices like cardamom or cloves to the sauce or even a dash of smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 1 hour (this includes marination time)
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

This dish requires a little bit of time, especially to allow the chicken to marinate, but trust me, the end result is absolutely worth it!

Equipment You Need

Before we dive into the cooking process, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:

• Oven – For cooking the chicken to perfection.
• Mixing Bowl – To prepare the marinade for the chicken.
• Baking Dish – For cooking the marinated chicken in the oven.
• Saucepan – For preparing the butter chicken sauce.
• Knife and Cutting Board – To chop the vegetables and chicken.
• Spoon or Spatula – For stirring the sauce.

How to Make Butter Chicken?

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Then, in a mixing bowl, combine the paprika, lemon juice, salt, yogurt, cayenne pepper, Garam Masala, ginger, and garlic. Stir everything together until well mixed. Add the chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. It’s best to let the chicken marinate for at least one hour, but for the best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the chicken to absorb all the wonderful flavors and become tender.

Step 2: Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) with the top/bottom heat setting. Transfer the marinated chicken pieces into a baking dish and bake them for about 25 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through but still juicy. This step ensures the chicken is perfectly tender before adding it to the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken is baking, it’s time to make the delicious butter chicken sauce. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the tomato puree, cinnamon, salt, cayenne pepper, ginger, and garlic. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together, add the remaining butter, honey, and heavy cream. Stir everything well and let the sauce simmer for an additional 3 minutes. The sauce should now be creamy, rich, and full of flavor.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the oven and add it to the prepared sauce. Stir gently to coat the chicken in the creamy sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of color and freshness.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic make a huge difference in the flavor, so always opt for fresh over powdered.
• Marinate Longer: If you have time, marinate the chicken overnight. This will make the chicken more tender and flavorful.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference. You can even add a dash of chili flakes for extra heat.
• Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce, feel free to double the tomato and cream portion to create more of that creamy goodness to serve with naan or rice.

If you’re looking for more easy meal options, don’t forget to explore other dinner recipes for new inspirations.

How to Serve Butter Chicken?

Butter Chicken is best served with hot, fluffy Basmati rice or freshly baked naan bread. To make your presentation even more inviting, garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves and a drizzle of cream. You can also add a wedge of lemon on the side to enhance the flavors with a fresh, citrusy note.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional benefits of this delicious Butter Chicken:

• Calories: 400-500 kcal per serving
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 25g

How to Store Butter Chicken?

Storing: After cooking, let the Butter Chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: You can freeze Butter Chicken for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container, and let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little water or cream to adjust the consistency if needed. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here are some reasons why this Butter Chicken recipe will be your new favorite:

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream, butter, and spices creates an irresistible sauce.
• Easy to Make: Despite the layers of flavor, the recipe is straightforward and simple to follow.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special event, this dish is sure to please.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice levels and even try alternative ingredients for different dietary preferences.

FAQs

What if I don’t have Garam Masala?

You can make your own Garam Masala by mixing ground cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, coriander, and cloves. This will give you a similar warm, spicy flavor.

Can I make Butter Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, Butter Chicken can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors deepen and become even better the next day!

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and richness to the dish. They’re also juicier, making the dish even more delicious.