What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Butter Chicken recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen, offering rich flavors and simple steps. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:
- Creamy and flavorful sauce that’s perfectly balanced with spices and tangy tomatoes.
- Easy to make with everyday ingredients, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comforting and versatile, pairing beautifully with rice, naan, or your favorite sides.
Recipe

Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a rich and creamy Indian dish that combines tender chicken in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Its origins trace back to Delhi, and it has since become a global favorite. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to recreate this classic dish at home.
Ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken (cut into pieces)
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 2 medium tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Marinate the chicken with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Let it sit for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Heat butter and oil in a pan. Sauté the chopped onion until golden brown.
- Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.
- Add the marinated chicken and cook until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the heavy cream and mix well. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Crush kasuri methi between your palms and sprinkle over the dish. Garnish with coriander leaves.
Notes:
- For a smokier flavor, grill the marinated chicken before adding it to the sauce.
- Adjust the cream quantity to suit your preference for richness.
Time:
Prep Time: 1 hour (plus marinating time)
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Serving: 4
Nutrition
This butter chicken recipe is a delicious and hearty dish, packed with rich flavors and essential nutrients. Below is the nutrition information per serving.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 480 kcal |
Protein | 28 g |
Fat | 32 g |
Carbohydrates | 18 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sugar | 8 g |
Sodium | 680 mg |
What To Serve With It
Pairing this butter chicken with the right sides can turn a great meal into something truly special.
I love serving it with fluffy basmati rice or warm, buttery naan to soak up the rich sauce. A crisp cucumber salad or tangy raita adds freshness, balancing the dish’s creaminess.
For something heartier, try jeera aloo or saag paneer. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
If you’re feeling adventurous, pair it with a mango lassi—it’s like a flavor party in your mouth! Trust me, these combos make every bite even better.