About Butter Chicken
Butter chicken dish, also known as murgh makhani, is a classic North Indian curry that originated in Delhi. This butter chicken recipe combines tender chicken pieces in a rich, creamy tomato-based gravy. The dish gets its signature flavor from garam masala and a perfect blend of spices.
This simple butter chicken recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen. Whether you're new to Indian cooking or an experienced chef, this guide will help you make perfect homemade butter chicken every time.
Table of Contents
How to Make Butter Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients for Butter Chicken
To make this simple butter curry recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken (cut into pieces)
- 1 cup yogurt (for marinade)
- 2 tbsp chicken masala powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 cups tomato puree
- 1/2 cup fresh cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Mix chicken with yogurt, chicken masala, ginger-garlic paste, and salt. Marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight for best results).
- Cook the Chicken: Grill or pan-fry the marinated chicken until 80% cooked. Set aside.
- Prepare the Gravy: Heat butter in a pan, add tomato puree and cook for 10 minutes until oil separates.
- Add Spices: Stir in garam masala, kasuri methi, and honey/sugar.
- Combine: Add the cooked chicken pieces and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in fresh cream just before serving for that signature creamy butter chicken recipe texture.
Here are some chicken curry tips to elevate your dining experience:
Serving Tips for Butter Chicken
- Serve butter chicken gravy with steamed basmati rice or garlic naan
- Pair with veg pulao or chicken biryani for a complete meal
- Garnish with fresh cream and coriander leaves
- Serve with onion rings and lemon wedges on the side
Substitutes for Ingredients
- Chicken masala: Use tandoori chicken masala powder for smokier flavor
- Fresh cream: Substitute with coconut milk for dairy-free version
- Tomato puree: Use 4-5 fresh tomatoes blended instead
- Butter: Ghee or oil can be used, but butter gives authentic taste
Nutritional Facts
While indulgent, this best butter chicken recipe provides:
- Calories: 350-400 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 10g
- Good source of vitamin A and calcium
- Contains dairy (can be modified for lactose-free)
Beginner's Guide to Making Butter Chicken
If you're learning how to make butter chicken, remember:
- Don't skip the marination time - it's crucial for flavor
- Cook the tomato gravy until oil separates for best texture
- Add cream at the end to prevent curdling
- Adjust spice levels to your preference
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What makes butter chicken different?
The butter chicken dish is characterized by its creamy tomato gravy and mild sweetness, unlike spicier curries.
2. How to make butter chicken less rich?
For a lighter butter chicken recipe at home, reduce cream and use milk instead.
3. What are the key butter chicken recipe ingredients?
Essential ingredients include chicken, tomatoes, cream, butter, and pure Indian spices like garam masala.
4. Can I make butter chicken without tandoor?
Yes, this homemade butter chicken uses pan-fried chicken instead of tandoori.
5. How to store leftover butter chicken?
Refrigerate for 3-4 days or freeze the butter chicken gravy for longer storage.
6. What's the secret to creamy texture?
The creamy butter chicken recipe secret is blending the gravy and adding fresh cream at the end.
7. Can I use chicken with bones?
While boneless is traditional, bone-in chicken works in this recipe to make butter chicken (adjust cooking time).
Conclusion
This best butter chicken recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors at home. Whether you're making butter chicken recipe at home for special occasions or weeknight dinners, its creamy texture and balanced spices always impress. For more Indian favorites, explore our collection of chicken recipes and pure Indian spices to elevate your cooking.
