Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)

This Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani) is a delightful Indian dish that brings a rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken together. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe combines warming spices to create an irresistible flavor profile. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, making it a go-to option for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The creamy curry sauce is infused with spices, delivering a mouthwatering taste.
• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of total time, you can whip up this delicious dish even on busy nights.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it with rice, naan, or veggies to suit any palate and occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish appeals to both spice lovers and those who prefer milder flavors due to its customizable heat level.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch for leftovers or freeze portions for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly while allowing the sauce to develop rich flavors.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for marinating chicken with yogurt and spices, ensuring every piece is well-coated.

Ingredients

To make this incredible Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani), you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken 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 is good)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Curry 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 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)

How to Make Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the chicken pieces with yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, chili powder, turmeric, cumin, salt, pepper, and lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Mix well until all pieces are coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. Then add in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook until browned on all sides. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked through, add in chopped red pepper followed by garam masala, cumin, red chili powder, salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes. Stir well before adding tomato sauce and honey. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream until fully combined. Allow it to cook gently for another few minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your Butter Chicken hot with rice or naan bread! Enjoy this flavorful meal that brings everyone together.

How to Serve Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)

Serving your Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani) is all about enhancing its rich flavors. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this creamy curry.

With Rice

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, basmati rice complements the sauce beautifully.
• Jeera Rice: This spiced cumin rice brings a fragrant touch that pairs well with the butter chicken.

With Bread

• Naan: Soft and pillowy naan is perfect for scooping up the sauce.
• Roti: Whole wheat roti provides a healthy option while still being flavorful.

As a Wrap

• Butter Chicken Wrap: Use naan or roti to wrap the butter chicken for a convenient meal on-the-go.
• Rice Bowl: Serve the butter chicken over a bed of rice topped with fresh herbs for a satisfying bowl.

With Salads

• Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt salad balances the spices in the curry.
• Simple Green Salad: Fresh greens with lemon dressing offer a refreshing contrast.

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How to Perfect Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)

To achieve the best Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani), follow these expert tips for rich flavor and smooth texture.

• Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in yogurt and spices enhances tenderness and flavor.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices provide a more vibrant taste than pre-ground options.
• Cook on Low Heat: Simmering on low heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully without burning the sauce.
• Finish with Cream: Adding heavy cream at the end results in that signature richness characteristic of butter chicken.
• Balance Flavors: Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, spice, or sweetness as needed to suit your palate.

Best Side Dishes for Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)

Pairing side dishes with your Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani) can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Garlic Naan: This soft bread infused with garlic is ideal for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
2. Saffron Rice: Fragrant saffron rice adds elegance and aroma to your meal.
3. Chickpea Salad: A protein-rich salad with chickpeas, veggies, and lemon dressing offers great texture contrast.
4. Palak Paneer: Creamy spinach with paneer creates a delightful vegetarian option alongside chicken.
5. Aloo Gobi: This spiced potato and cauliflower dish adds warmth and comfort to your plate.
6. Mango Chutney: Sweet and tangy mango chutney brightens up the rich flavors of butter chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks struggle with perfecting their butter chicken. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Opt for boneless chicken thighs for juiciness. Chicken breasts can dry out during cooking.
• Skipping marination: Marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step!
• Overcooking the sauce: Cooking the sauce too long can lead to burnt flavors. Keep an eye on it for a smooth, creamy texture.
• Neglecting spice adjustments: Everyone’s spice tolerance differs. Taste as you go and adjust spices to your liking.
• Not using fresh spices: Stale spices lose potency. Always use fresh spices for maximum flavor in your butter chicken recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 months for the best flavor and quality.

Reheating Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this butter chicken recipe.

What is Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)?

Butter chicken is a creamy, spiced chicken curry that originated in India. It features marinated chicken cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce.

Can I make Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani) vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with paneer or tofu, and follow the same recipe steps for a delicious vegetarian option.

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

The spice level can vary based on your choice of chili powder. Adjust according to your taste preference by reducing or omitting spices.

What can I serve with Butter Chicken Recipe (aka Murgh Makhani)?

Serve it with naan, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors beautifully.

Can I use coconut milk instead of cream?

Absolutely! Coconut milk creates a different but delicious flavor profile if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

Final Thoughts

This butter chicken recipe is not only rich and creamy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adjusting the spice levels or swapping proteins. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!