If you are craving Butter Chicken, order it right now from AKM Kitchen for just ₹389—no cooking required. If you want to learn the recipe, read on;
You have come to the right place. Butter Chicken is one of India’s most beloved dishes, famous for its tender chicken pieces and a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. The best part is that you don’t need to visit a restaurant to enjoy this classic dish; you can prepare delicious, flavorful Butter Chicken at home using simple ingredients and easy steps.
This recipe is excellent for beginners learning to cook. It is also perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you are craving a delicious Indian meal.
Why You’ll Love This Simple Butter Chicken Recipe
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Rich, creamy, and full of flavor
- Better than takeout
- Perfect for lunch or dinner
- Pairs well with naan, roti, or rice
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
What Is Butter Chicken?
Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a popular North Indian dish made with marinated chicken cooked in a smooth tomato and butter-based gravy. Cream, butter, and aromatic spices give the curry its signature rich flavor and velvety texture.
Although traditionally prepared with tandoori chicken, this easy homemade version delivers the same delicious taste using a regular pan.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1½ pounds boneless chicken thighs or chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Butter Chicken Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 cups tomato puree
- 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter (for finishing)
- 1 teaspoon crushed kasuri methi
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Kitchen Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Non-stick skillet or deep pan
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and chopping board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, Kashmiri red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, and salt.
Add the chicken pieces and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, marinate for 4 to 8 hours.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until lightly browned. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage because it will finish cooking in the sauce.
Transfer the chicken to a plate.
Prepare the Butter Chicken Sauce
In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and lightly golden.
Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for one minute until fragrant.
Add the tomato puree, Kashmiri red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, sugar, and salt.
Cook the sauce for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the butter begins to separate from the tomato mixture.
Finish the Curry
Return the cooked chicken to the pan.
Mix well so the chicken is coated with the sauce.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently.
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and crushed kasuri methi.
Simmer for another 8 to 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the gravy becomes smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Tips for the Best Butter Chicken
- Use chicken thighs for extra juicy and tender bites.
- Kashmiri red chili powder gives a bright color without making the curry too spicy.
- Simmer the tomato sauce well before adding the cream.
- Do not boil the cream on high heat, as it may separate.
- Add butter at the end for a richer flavor.
- Let the curry rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Butter chicken tastes delicious with:
- Butter naan
- Garlic naan
- Tandoori roti
- Steamed basmati rice
- Jeera rice
- Laccha paratha
- Fresh cucumber salad
- Mint yogurt raita
Recipe Variations
Spicy Butter Chicken
Add green chilies or extra red chili powder for more heat.
Healthier Version
Replace heavy cream with fresh cooking cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter curry.
Restaurant-Style Butter Chicken
Blend the cooked tomato sauce until smooth before adding the chicken for an extra silky texture.
Storage
Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Butter chicken freezes well for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or cream if the sauce becomes too thick.
You can also microwave individual portions until heated through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the marinating step
- Overcooking the chicken
- Adding cream before the tomato sauce is fully cooked
- Using too much tomato, making the sauce overly tangy
- Cooking on very high heat after adding the cream
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make butter chicken without cream?
Yes. You can substitute fresh cream with Greek yogurt, coconut cream, or cashew cream for a different texture and flavor.
Is butter chicken spicy?
This recipe is mildly spiced. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder.
Can I use chicken breast?
Yes. Chicken breast works well, but be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry.
What makes butter chicken creamy?
The combination of butter, heavy cream, and a slow-cooked tomato sauce creates its signature creamy texture.
Can I prepare butter chicken ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, the flavors become even better after resting overnight in the refrigerator.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 465
- Protein: 33g
- Fat: 31g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 690mg
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
This simple butter chicken recipe is an easy way to bring the rich flavors of Indian cuisine into your kitchen. With tender marinated chicken, a creamy tomato sauce, and aromatic spices, it’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
Serve it with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice for a satisfying meal that your family and friends will love. Once you try this homemade butter chicken, it’s sure to become one of your favorite recipes.