Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is one of the most beloved Indian dishes worldwide. Its creamy, rich sauce combined with tender, spiced chicken makes it a perfect comfort food and a favorite at restaurants and home kitchens alike. If you’ve ever wondered how to make butter chicken at home, you’re in the right place! This article will guide you through an easy-to-follow recipe that delivers authentic flavors with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
What Is Butter Chicken?
Originating from northern India, butter chicken is a dish featuring marinated chicken cooked in a luscious tomato-based sauce enriched with butter and cream. The magic lies in the blend of aromatic spices like garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder, which give the dish its signature warmth and depth. The creamy sauce is both tangy and slightly sweet, making it irresistible when paired with fluffy basmati rice or soft naan bread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make butter chicken, gather these ingredients:
– Chicken (preferably boneless thighs or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
– Yogurt (for marinating)
– Butter (a generous amount for cooking and flavor)
– Onion, finely chopped
– Garlic and ginger, minced
– Tomato puree or crushed tomatoes
– Heavy cream or coconut cream for richness
– A blend of spices: garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, curry powder, salt, and pepper
– Lemon juice or a little sugar to balance flavors
– Fresh coriander (cilantro) for garnish
Most of these ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store or online.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Butter Chicken
1. Marinate the Chicken
Start by preparing a marinade to tenderize and flavor the chicken deeply. In a bowl, mix yogurt with minced garlic, ginger, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat them evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
2. Sauté the Chicken
Heat some butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in batches and cook until it’s lightly browned but not fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside — it will finish cooking in the sauce.
3. Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and add chopped onions. Sauté until the onions soften and caramelize slightly, about 4-6 minutes. Then add minced garlic, ginger, and your spice mix (garam masala, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, chili powder). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add Tomatoes and Simmer
Pour in the tomato puree or crushed tomatoes and stir well. Season with salt, and optionally add a bit of sugar or lemon juice to balance the acidity. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until it thickens and the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Combine Chicken and Cream
Return the browned chicken to the pan and stir it into the sauce. Pour in heavy cream or coconut cream and mix well. Simmer on low heat for another 8-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is rich and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves on top before serving. Butter chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken
– Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier, more tender results, but breasts work fine too.
– Marinating the chicken longer enhances flavor and tenderness.
– Don’t rush the sauce simmering step; slow cooking helps develop deeper flavors.
– For a richer taste, use a combination of butter and clarified butter or ghee.
– Adjust the spice level to your preference by varying chili powder or adding fresh chili.
Why Make Butter Chicken at Home?
Making butter chicken at home is not only satisfying but also allows you to control the ingredients, spice level, and creaminess. It’s quicker than you might think — many recipes can be done in under 30 minutes — and it’s a great way to impress family or guests with a restaurant-quality dish that’s packed with flavor.
Enjoy the process of cooking this iconic Indian dish, and don’t hesitate to experiment with spices and cream to find your perfect balance.
Butter chicken is a delicious, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy this classic Indian favorite anytime you want. Happy cooking!