Quick Easy Homemade Butter Chicken That Will Wow Your Guests

Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a rich, creamy, and mildly spiced Indian dish that has won hearts worldwide. This recipe simplifies the traditional preparation without compromising on flavor, making it a perfect choice for a home-cooked meal that will impress your guests. With its velvety tomato-based sauce and tender chicken pieces, this dish pairs beautifully with naan or rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – This version streamlines the cooking process, making it accessible for even beginner cooks.
• Restaurant-Quality Flavor – Achieve that creamy, slightly smoky taste at home with simple ingredients.
• Rich and Comforting – The luscious tomato and butter sauce make every bite indulgent.
• Customizable Heat Level – Adjust the spice to suit your preference, from mild to fiery.
• Perfect for Entertaining – Serve it to guests, and they’ll think it came from a professional kitchen.

Ingredients

chicken (boneless, skinless)
yogurt
lemon juice
garlic
ginger
garam masala
cumin
coriander
paprika
salt
black pepper
butter
tomatoes (pureed)
heavy cream
cashews
sugar
fenugreek leaves
cinnamon
red chili powder
fresh cilantro

Directions

Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces and coat evenly.
3. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight, for maximum flavor.

Cook the Chicken

4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt a small amount of butter.
5. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

6. In the same pan, add more butter and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
7. Pour in pureed tomatoes and cook until the sauce thickens.
8. Blend cashews with a little water to create a smooth paste and stir it into the sauce.
9. Add garam masala, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, red chili powder, salt, sugar, and crushed fenugreek leaves.
10. Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Combine and Finish

11. Return the cooked chicken to the sauce and stir well.
12. Pour in heavy cream and mix until the sauce turns creamy and smooth.
13. Simmer for a few more minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
14. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Variations

• Dairy-Free Version – Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use oil instead of butter.
• Vegetarian Alternative – Replace chicken with paneer or tofu for a delicious meat-free dish.
• Spicier Version – Increase the red chili powder and add a chopped green chili for extra heat.
• Healthier Option – Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marination Time: 30 minutes to overnight
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes (including marination)
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Add a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

How can I make this dish more authentic?

Use charcoal smoking (dhungar method) for a smoky restaurant-style flavor.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful.

What can I use instead of fenugreek leaves?

Try a small amount of mustard seeds or a teaspoon of maple syrup for a similar earthy taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.

Is butter chicken the same as tikka masala?

No, butter chicken has a creamier, slightly sweeter sauce compared to the spicier tikka masala.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, sauté the ingredients, then pressure cook for 7 minutes with natural release.

What sides go well with butter chicken?

Naan, basmati rice, jeera rice, or even a simple salad complement this dish well.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, but use high-quality canned tomatoes to maintain the best flavor.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

Cashew paste works best, but you can also use almond flour or reduce the sauce longer.

Can I make this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! Replace sugar with a low-carb sweetener and serve with cauliflower rice.

Conclusion

This quick and easy homemade butter chicken recipe delivers rich, comforting flavors without the hassle of a long preparation time. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself to an indulgent meal, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds. Try it today and bring the magic of Indian cuisine to your table!

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