Learn how to cook authentic Indian style butter chicken at home. This creamy, spiced dish is one of the most popular Indian curries worldwide. Follow our step-by-step recipe with ingredients, cooking tips, and verdicts.
Where is Butter Chicken Most Popular?
Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, originated in Delhi, India, during the 1950s. Today, it’s a global favorite and you’ll find it served in Indian restaurants across the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and beyond. Its rich tomato-butter gravy paired with soft naan or steamed rice makes it irresistible.
Ingredients Needed
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 500g chicken (boneless, cut into cubes)
- ½ cup yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
For the Gravy:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 3 medium tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- ½ cup fresh cream
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
- Salt to taste
Steps to Cook Butter Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Mix chicken with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best results).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a little oil in a pan.
- Cook the marinated chicken until golden brown. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy
- In the same pan, heat butter and oil.
- Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
- Add tomato puree, chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until oil separates.
Step 4: Combine & Finish
- Add the cooked chicken pieces to the gravy.
- Stir well, then add cream and garam masala.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the chicken is tender and the gravy is rich.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.
Verdicts
Butter chicken is creamy, mildly spiced, and absolutely comforting. The balance of tangy tomatoes, rich cream, and aromatic spices makes it a dish loved by both Indian food enthusiasts and first-time tasters.
Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken
- Use fresh cream for a silky, rich texture.
- Char the chicken slightly (on a grill or hot pan) for a smoky, restaurant-style flavor.
- Adjust spices according to your heat preference.
- For a dairy-free version, replace cream with coconut milk.
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