Butter Chicken Recipe | How to Make Butter Chicken at Home

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Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Creamy, Flavor-Packed Indian Classic

Introduction

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is one of the most popular Indian dishes across the globe — especially in America and India. Known for its rich, creamy tomato-based sauce, tender grilled chicken pieces, and aromatic spices, this dish offers a luxurious experience that’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this Butter Chicken recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor right from your kitchen.

Butter chicken curry, lamb vindaloo, basmati rice, nan bread and yoghurt raita

Ingredients

For Marinating the Chicken:

  • 500 grams (1 lb) boneless chicken (thighs or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste

For the Gravy:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
  • 3-4 large tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1/4 cup cashew nuts (soaked in warm water for 15 minutes, then blended into a smooth paste)
  • 1/2 cup fresh cream (heavy cream in the US)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup water (adjust consistency)
  • Fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves for garnish
Stock photo showing elevated view of blue plates of Butter chicken breast chunks sauce and white rice, served with lachha paratha (layered flatbread).

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt.
  2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and coat well.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight for best results).

Step 2: Grill or Cook the Chicken

  1. Preheat a grill pan or regular pan with 1 tablespoon oil.
  2. Cook the marinated chicken pieces until slightly charred and cooked through.
  3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Butter Chicken Gravy

  1. Heat butter and oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
  4. Add pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil starts separating from the mixture.
  5. Mix in red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and garam masala.
  6. Add cashew paste and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring continuously.
  7. Pour in water to adjust the gravy consistency.
  8. Simmer for 5 minutes, then add cream and honey. Stir well.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Gravy

  1. Add the grilled chicken pieces into the gravy.
  2. Simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
  3. Garnish with fresh cream and chopped cilantro.

Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken

  • Marination Time: Longer marination results in juicier, more flavorful chicken.
  • Tomato Choice: Use ripe, red tomatoes for natural sweetness and color.
  • Cashew Paste: Cashews give the gravy its rich, creamy texture. You can substitute with almonds if preferred.
  • Spice Level: Adjust chili powder to suit your heat tolerance.
  • Serving Suggestion: Serve hot with naan, jeera rice, or plain basmati rice.

Conclusion

This easy homemade Butter Chicken recipe strikes a balance between authentic Indian flavors and modern cooking ease — making it a favorite in both Indian homes and American kitchens. Rich, creamy, and bursting with spices, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or festive family gatherings. Give this recipe a try and experience one of India’s most celebrated dishes in your own home.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to check out our other popular chicken and curry recipes for more flavorful, easy-to-cook dishes!

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