Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

This Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) is the ultimate comfort food that brings the rich and creamy flavors of Indian cuisine right into your kitchen. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish features tender chicken simmered in a spiced tomato sauce, finished with luscious cream. The vibrant orange-red color and fragrant spices will make you feel like you’re dining at a five-star restaurant without leaving home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful & Rich: The combination of spices creates a deep, satisfying flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with basmati rice or homemade garlic naan for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This Butter Chicken is sure to impress family and friends with its authentic taste and presentation.
• Customizable: Adjust spice levels and ingredients to cater to your preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Butter Chicken requires just a few essential tools that help enhance the cooking experience. Make sure you have these handy before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• Blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mortar and pestle or knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well, ensuring even cooking for perfectly browned chicken.
• Blender: Necessary for achieving a smooth sauce that combines all the flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken thighs (cubed)
• ½ cup dahi (see notes)
• 1/2 lemon (juiced)
• 2 tablespoon ginger garlic paste
• 1 green chili (finely chopped (optional))
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon Kashmiri chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoon butter (divided)
• 1 small yellow onion (chopped)
• 1 star anise
• 1 black cardamom pod
• 4-5 green cardamom pods
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste
• ½ teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 tablespoon Kashmiri chili powder
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 14 oz canned tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• salt (to taste)
• 5–8 cashews (optional)
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon kasuri methi
• cilantro, red onion, heavy cream (to garnish)

How to Make Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by trimming the fat from the chicken thighs. Cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl:
Combine the dahi, lemon juice, ginger garlic paste, green chilis (if using), garam masala, turmeric, ground cumin, Kashmiri chili powder, and salt.
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Cover with plastic wrap and let marinate for at least 30 minutes; longer if possible, up to 24 hours.

Step 3: Toast Whole Spices

Crush the green cardamom pods using a mortar and pestle or by pressing down with a knife. Discard the green shells.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

In a pot over medium heat:
Melt two tablespoons of butter.
Add star anise, black cardamom pod, crushed green cardamom seeds, cinnamon stick, and cumin seeds. Sauté for about one minute to infuse flavors.

Step 5: Cook Onions and Ginger Garlic Paste

Add chopped onions and ginger garlic paste into the infused butter:
Sauté until onions are golden brown.

Step 6: Add Ground Spices

Incorporate garam masala, ground coriander, ground cloves, and Kashmiri chili powder into the pot:
Stir well for about one minute to bloom spices but avoid burning them.

Step 7: Incorporate Tomato Products

Stir in tomato paste, canned tomatoes, optional cashews, sugar, and salt:
Mix thoroughly before lowering heat to allow simmering.

Step 8: Simmer Sauce

Let your sauce simmer on low to medium heat:
Watch as it thickens over approximately five to ten minutes. Turn off when ready.

Step 9: Cook Chicken Separately

Heat a cast iron skillet on high:
Add remaining tablespoon of ghee or oil. Once hot, add marinated chicken pieces.
Cook each side for about three to four minutes until browned and cooked through.

Step 10: Blend Sauce

Carefully discard whole spices from your sauce:
Transfer everything else into a blender along with remaining butter. Blend until smooth. Adjust thickness as preferred by adding water if necessary.

Step 11: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return sauce to skillet on low heat:
Mix in cooked chicken along with its juices. Allow it all to simmer again for about five more minutes until bubbling.

Step 12: Finish with Cream

Gradually pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously:
Let it simmer for another two to three minutes until thickened further. Taste and adjust spices if needed.

Step 13: Add Kasuri Methi

Remove from heat:
Sprinkle kasuri methi after crushing between your hands for maximum flavor release before mixing it into your curry.

Step 14: Serve Hot

Garnish with heavy cream drizzles, fresh cilantro leaves, and diced red onions:
Serve immediately alongside basmati rice or warm garlic naan for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) is a rich and creamy dish that pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Basmati Rice

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy, fragrant basmati rice absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly, making each bite a delight.

With Garlic Naan

• Garlic Naan: This soft, buttery flatbread is ideal for scooping up the rich butter chicken sauce and adds an extra layer of flavor.

With Roti

• Roti: Whole wheat roti provides a healthier alternative to naan while still complementing the curry beautifully.

With Cucumber Raita

• Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt dip balances the spices in the butter chicken and enhances the overall meal experience.

With Pickles

• Indian Pickles: Spicy and tangy pickles add an exciting burst of flavor that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the curry.

With Salad

• Fresh Salad: A light salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions adds freshness to your meal, balancing out the richness of the butter chicken.

How to Perfect Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

To achieve restaurant-quality Butter Chicken at home, consider these essential tips for perfecting your dish.

• Marinate for longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours or overnight enhances its flavor and tenderness.

• Use high-quality spices: Fresh, high-quality spices yield better flavor profiles. Ensure you check expiration dates to maximize taste.

• Blend the sauce well: A smooth sauce creates a luxurious texture. Blend until silky for best results.

• Adjust creaminess: For a creamier curry, feel free to add more heavy cream according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

Pairing side dishes with your Butter Chicken can enhance your dining experience. Here are some popular options.

1. Jeera Rice: Fragrant cumin-infused rice that complements the rich flavors of Butter Chicken.

2. Aloo Gobi: A spiced potato and cauliflower dish that adds a hearty element to your meal.

3. Palak Paneer: Creamy spinach with paneer offers a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.

4. Chana Masala: Hearty chickpea curry that provides protein and additional spice notes.

5. Pulao: A mixed rice dish cooked with vegetables and spices, providing a colorful addition to your plate.

6. Samosas: Crispy pastry filled with spiced potatoes or meat make for a tasty appetizer before enjoying your main course.

7. Daal Tadka: Flavorful lentils tempered with spices; it’s nutritious and complements Butter Chicken wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can hinder your dish’s success.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate properly can lead to bland flavors. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165 ºF for juicy pieces.
• Burning the Spices: Leaving spices in hot oil for too long may cause them to burn. Always stir and cook them just until fragrant.
• Using Low-Quality Tomatoes: Poor-quality tomatoes can affect the curry’s flavor. Opt for good canned tomatoes for a richer taste.
• Neglecting Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your dish flat. Always check flavors before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers; it lasts up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

• Oven: Preheat to 350 ºF and place in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat on medium power until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low-medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) that can help you create the best dish possible.

What is Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)?

Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) is a popular Indian curry made with marinated chicken cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with butter and spices.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs generally provide more moisture and flavor in this dish.

How spicy is Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)?

The spice level can vary; you can adjust the green chili or Kashmiri chili powder according to your preference for heat.

What should I serve with Butter Chicken?

Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with basmati rice or homemade garlic naan for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) is not only incredibly flavorful but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can customize it by adjusting spices or adding vegetables like peas or bell peppers. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a cozy meal that feels both comforting and satisfying!