Butter chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is one of the most loved Indian dishes worldwide. Its creamy, mildly spiced curry with tender chicken pieces is a comfort food for many. If you’re looking for an easy and authentic butter chicken recipe, this step-by-step guide will help you make it perfectly at home.

Ingredients for Butter Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish:

For the Chicken Marinade

• 500g boneless chicken (cut into cubes)
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt to taste

For the Curry

• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 medium onions (finely chopped)
• 3 large tomatoes (pureed)
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• ½ tsp sugar
• ½ cup fresh cream
• ½ cup cashew paste
• 1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Recipe to Make Butter Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and the spices for marination.
2. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated with the mixture.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1-2 hours (overnight marination gives the best flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a pan and add a little butter.
2. Cook the marinated chicken pieces on medium heat until they are slightly browned and fully cooked.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Curry Base

1. In the same pan, melt butter and add the chopped onions.
2. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
3. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
4. Stir in the tomato puree and cook for 4-5 minutes until the oil separates.

Step 4: Add Spices

1. Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and sugar.
2. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the spices to release their aroma.

Step 5: Add Creamy Elements

1. Lower the heat and add cashew paste, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
2. Slowly pour in the fresh cream and mix well, creating a rich, creamy curry.

Step 6: Combine and Simmer

1. Add the cooked chicken pieces to the curry.
2. Sprinkle crushed dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) for an authentic smoky flavor.
3. Simmer the curry for 5-7 minutes on low heat, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions for Butter Chicken

Serve your homemade butter chicken hot with:

• Steamed basmati rice
• Butter naan or garlic naan
• Tandoori roti or paratha

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for added freshness and flavor.

Pro Tips to Enhance Your Butter Chicken

• Marinate for Longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cream, butter, and ripe tomatoes make a big difference.
• Smoky Flavor: For a restaurant-style touch, use the dhungar method by placing a hot coal in a small bowl, adding ghee, and letting the smoke infuse into the curry.

Why Try This Recipe?

This butter chicken recipe is:

• Easy to follow with simple ingredients.
• Perfectly balanced with rich, creamy, and tangy flavors.
• Ideal for special dinners or even weeknight meals.