Easy Butter Chicken Recipe

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani is a very popular curry that has all the classic Indian flavor in just 30 minutes. The secret about the authentic indian recipe that transforms your homemade dinner in a restaurant-level cuisine in just a few simple steps.

The Butter Chicken is a classic dish from India. It is made with a creamy tomato-butter sauce, and its popularity is not just because of its amazing flavor, but also because it is the EASIEST curry to make.

What is Butter Chicken Made of

There are a few Butter Chicken recipes around the world, but why is it so popular? The Murgh Makhani is one of my favorite Indian dishes. I tried different versions until I found one that has all the indian flavor. The chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices, which helps make the meat more tender and less tough, and makes it easier to cook without drying out.

The butter is the KEY ingredient here, it’s not only because it is the one that carries the spices of the Murgh Makhan. The butter fat helps release and distribute the flavors of garam masala, cumin, and chili.

This is the BEST option for you when you’re looking for a complete dinner that keeps you satisfied without feeling heavy.

Even if chicken curry isn’t your thing, this dish might still become a new obsession. And if you’re in the mood to switch things up, there are also a few alternatives that bring similar bold flavours.

Something like skinny satay turkey skewers can give you that same satisfying mix of marinated meat and rich sauce, just in a lighter way.

Butter Chicken: Key Ingredients

What is in butter chicken? The list is simple, but each ingredient plays an important role. Preserving the original flavour was the main goal, so this recipe keeps the classic elements that make Murgh Makhani so well-loved.

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• Ghee: Use a good quality ghee if you can. It really makes a difference in flavour. Ghee has a deeper, slightly nutty taste that helps the spices open up and gives the sauce that rich, silky feel butter chicken is known for.
• Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is always best here. I like to mince both right before cooking because the aroma is much stronger and the flavour comes through better in the sauce. The jarred versions work in a pinch, but fresh garlic and ginger give the dish a much fuller taste.
• Crushed Tomatoes: A good can of crushed tomatoes is the base of the sauce. Look for one with a naturally sweet tomato flavour and a smooth texture so the sauce cooks down nicely. It’s what gives butter chicken that deep colour and balanced tomato base. That same tomato-rich sauce is also the base of this spiced tomato chicken curry.
• Red Chili Powder: This is what gives butter chicken the color. Regular chili powder works fine, but if you can find Kashmiri red chili powder, it’s worth using. It has a beautiful red pigment and a gentle heat, so you get colour and flavour without overpowering the creaminess of the sauce.

Note: Please see Recipe Card at the bottom for a full list of ingredients and measurements.

Additions And Substitutions

When making Butter Chicken, there are several additions and substitutions you can consider to tailor the dish to your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Ghee Substitute: For a dairy-free option, you can use a vegan butter substitute. It provides a rich texture and enhances the flavors just like ghee.
• Alternative Spices: While garam masala, cumin, and chili powder are traditional, you can experiment with spices like paprika for a smokier flavor or add a hint of sweetness with cinnamon.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken with paneer or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version. Both absorb the rich sauce wonderfully, maintaining the dish’s signature creaminess.
• Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, substitute thickened cream with Greek yogurt. It will still provide creaminess while slightly altering the flavor profile.
• Chilli Powder alternative: If you can’t find Kashmiri chili powder, a mix of 3 parts mild Paprika to 1 part Cayenne pepper is a fantastic substitute to achieve that beautiful color with a controllable kick.

Experimenting with these options can make the Butter Chicken experience even more delightful.

Creating Perfect Butter Chicken: Step-By-Step

When it comes to Butter Chicken, versatility is key. Whether you prefer it mild and creamy or with a touch of heat, this recipe adapts to your taste. The beauty of this dish lies in how effortlessly you can make it your own!

1. Mix plain yogurt, garlic, ginger, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, chili powder, and salt and chicken pieces (thighs or breasts) and mix so it’s coated evenly. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor).

2. The Chicken: Heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Cook the marinated chicken in batches, searing until browned on all sides, Then set aside.

3. Sauce In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions until softened. Add garlic, ginger, and remaining spices (garam masala, cumin, chili powder) and cook until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, bringing the mixture to a simmer.

4. Blend and Thicken the Sauce: Use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until smooth (or transfer to a blender). Return the sauce to the skillet, add cream, and stir well. Adjust seasoning with salt and sugar to balance flavors.

*Pro Tip – To create a stellar sauce, let the tomatoes cook for 10-15 minutes until they are nearly dry in your pan. If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a couple of tablespoons of water to achieve the perfect consistency.

5. Simmer: Add the seared chicken back into the sauce and simmer until cooked through and thickened, allowing the flavors to meld.

6. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro and serve with rice or garlic naan for a complete meal.

To round out your Butter Chicken feast, why not explore some of our favorite side dishes? Pair it with soft, pillowy Garlic Naan to soak up every drop of that creamy sauce, or add a fragrant twist with Black Beans & Rice. For a family-friendly option, try our Chicken, Green Bean and Butternut Squash Curry—a dish that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. Happy cooking!