Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that brings the whole family together, this Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani) is just what you need! With its luscious, creamy sauce and perfectly spiced chicken, it’s a favorite in our home. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe never fails to impress.

What makes this dish so special is how easy it is to whip up without sacrificing flavor. The rich blend of spices creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen and warms your heart. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
• Family-friendly: The mild spices make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can marinate the chicken earlier in the day or even freeze it for later use.
• Deliciously versatile: Pair it with rice, naan, or even vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Most of them are pantry staples that you probably already have. Let’s check out what you’ll need to create this delightful Butter Chicken Recipe.

For the Marinade

• 2 pounds boneless chicken thighs (chopped into bite-sized pieces; chicken breast works 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 is great)
• 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 choose 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 its flexibility! You can easily adjust ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some delicious ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using chickpeas or tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, increase the amount of red chili powder or add some diced jalapeños.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream for a rich yet dairy-free version.

How to Make Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken with garlic, ginger, garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, salt, pepper, yogurt, and lemon juice. Mix everything well! Marinating not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps keep it tender during cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent and soft. This step is crucial because caramelizing onions enhances their sweetness and adds depth to our sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Peppers and Spices

Stir in the chopped red pepper along with minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook until fragrant—about one minute. Then add garam masala, cumin, red chili powder, and season with salt and pepper. Toasting these spices releases their essential oils, bringing out their full flavors.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce followed by honey. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes so that all those lovely flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Finish with Creamy Goodness

Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream until fully incorporated. Allow everything to simmer for an additional few minutes until it’s thickened slightly. This creamy finish is what makes our Butter Chicken Recipe truly indulgent!

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once ready, serve your butter chicken over steamed rice or with warm naan bread. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro if you like! Enjoy every bite of this comforting dish that’s bound to become a family favorite!

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

Making the perfect butter chicken is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some tips to help you nail it!

• Marinate for flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) infuses it with deep flavor and tenderness. This step enhances the overall taste of your dish.
• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices can make a significant difference in flavor. If possible, grind your own cumin or garam masala just before cooking to maximize their aromatic qualities.
• Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder dish, start with less chili powder and adjust according to your taste. Remember, you can always add more spice, but it’s hard to take it out!
• Creaminess is key: For the richest texture, use heavy cream. If you’re looking for a lighter option, combine half milk and half cream, but keep in mind that this will slightly alter the richness of the sauce.
• Don’t rush the cooking: Allowing the sauce to simmer longer helps develop deeper flavors. Be patient; good things take time!

How to Serve Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)

Presenting your butter chicken beautifully not only makes it more appetizing but also elevates any meal into a special occasion. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and a fresh herbaceous note that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced green chilies: For those who love an extra kick, thinly sliced green chilies can be sprinkled on top right before serving.
• Cream drizzle: A swirl of heavy cream over the top not only looks appealing but also enhances the creamy texture.

Side Dishes

• Basmati rice: Light and fluffy basmati rice is a classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully.
• Naan bread: Soft naan is perfect for scooping up butter chicken. You can even try making garlic naan for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cucumber raita: This cooling yogurt-based side balances the spiciness of the curry wonderfully while adding crunch from fresh cucumbers.
• Steamed vegetables: Simple steamed veggies like broccoli or carrots complement the richness of butter chicken without overwhelming your palate.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to create an unforgettable meal! Enjoy every bite of this rich and comforting Butter Chicken Recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butter Chicken Recipe is not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily store leftovers or make it ahead of time for a quick weeknight dinner.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the butter chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container for best results.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled butter chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently.
• You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this Butter Chicken Recipe.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs in this Butter Chicken Recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use boneless chicken breasts. They will yield a leaner dish but still taste great!

How spicy is this Butter Chicken Recipe?

The spice level can vary depending on your preference. You can adjust the amount of red chili powder and omit the spicy chili flakes if you prefer a milder dish.

Can I make this Butter Chicken Recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative for a delicious dairy-free version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Butter Chicken Recipe! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comforting flavors that you’ll want to share with family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!