Simple Butter Chicken Recipe
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Butter chicken is a creamy Indian chicken curry made with tender chicken, tomato sauce, butter, cream, and warm spices. It is also called murgh makhani, which means “buttery chicken.” The dish has a smooth, rich, and slightly sweet taste, but it is not too spicy. That is why many people love it, even if they do not eat spicy food often. Butter chicken tastes amazing with basmati rice, naan bread, roti, or paratha. It is a comfort food that feels restaurant-style, but you can make it at home with simple steps.
People Why Love Butter Chicken
- Creamy and rich taste: The butter, cream, and tomato sauce create a smooth flavor.
- Not too spicy: It has warm spices, but the taste stays mild and balanced.
- Family-friendly meal: Kids and adults both enjoy this soft and creamy chicken curry.
- Great with many sides: You can serve it with rice, naan, roti, or even plain bread.
- Restaurant-style at home: It looks and tastes fancy, but the cooking method is simple.
- Perfect for leftovers: The flavor gets even better the next day.
- Good for meal prep: You can cook a big batch and store it for later.
Health Benefit
Butter chicken can be part of a balanced meal when you control the portion and choose smart sides. Chicken gives the body high-quality protein, which helps build and repair muscles. Tomatoes add vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. Garlic and ginger bring natural flavor and may support digestion. Yogurt in the marinade helps make the chicken tender and adds some calcium. Spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala add flavor without needing too much salt.
To make it lighter, use less butter and replace heavy cream with half-and-half, light cream, or Greek yogurt. Serve it with brown rice, cauliflower rice, or whole wheat roti for more fiber. Add a side salad or steamed vegetables to make the meal more balanced.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
Marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes, but longer is better. Use chicken thighs if you want softer, juicier pieces. Cook the tomato sauce until it looks thick and shiny. This step removes the raw tomato taste. Add cream only on low heat, and do not boil it hard. Crush dried fenugreek leaves before adding them because this brings out more flavor. For a restaurant-style taste, grill the chicken before mixing it into the sauce. If the curry becomes too thick, add a splash of water or milk. If it becomes too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes. Always taste before serving and adjust salt, sugar, or cream as needed.
Butter Chicken Recipe
Butter chicken is a creamy Indian chicken curry made with tender chicken, tomato sauce, butter, cream, and warm spices. It is also called murgh makhani, which means “buttery chicken.” The dish has a smooth, rich, and slightly sweet taste, but it is not too spicy.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Large skillet or pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Blender
- Tongs
- Serving bowl
- Rice cooker or pot
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- 0.5 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon turmeric
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Butter Chicken Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1.5 cups tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika or Kashmiri chili powder
- 0.5 teaspoon cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 0.5 teaspoon sugar
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 0.25 cup water, if needed
- 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves, crushed
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Notes:
Use chicken thighs for extra juicy meat, simmer the sauce gently, and add cream at low heat for the best creamy butter chicken.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
465
Calories (kcal)
30
Fat (g)
14
Carbs (g)
36
Protein (g)
* Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate.
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Hi, I'm Nagi!
I believe you can make great food with everyday ingredients even if you’re short on time and cost conscious. You just need to cook clever and get creative!
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