Butter Chicken Guide

Authentic Butter Chicken

Authentic Butter Chicken

Murgh Makhani

Discover the secrets to making restaurant-style Butter Chicken at home! This classic Indian dish features tender marinated chicken simmered in a rich, creamy tomato gravy with aromatic spices [1].

Prep: 30 min
Cook: 45 min
Serves: 4

Cooking Progress

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Ingredients & Shopping List

For the Chicken Marinade

For the Tomato Cream Gravy

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1

Marinate the Chicken

Combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt in a bowl. Add chicken pieces, coat well, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor) [2].

2

Pre-cook the Chicken

Thread marinated pieces onto skewers or spread on a baking tray. Grill or broil on high heat until lightly charred (about 8-10 minutes), or pan-sear in a hot skillet with a little oil. Set aside.

3

Prepare the Gravy Base

Heat ghee or oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt completely.

4

Add Color and Aromatics

Add whole Kashmiri chilies and sauté for 30 seconds to release color, then discard. These give the authentic red color without excessive heat [1].

5

Cook the Onions

Stir in the chopped onion; cook until golden brown and caramelized (about 5-6 minutes). This step is crucial for developing the gravy's depth of flavor.

6

Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Pour in tomato puree, add a pinch of salt, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the oil separates from the mixture. This indicates the tomatoes are properly cooked.

7

Blend for Silky Texture

Blend the sauce using an immersion blender or regular blender until smooth for a silky texture, then return to the pan. This step is optional but recommended for restaurant-style consistency.

8

Combine Chicken and Gravy

Add the grilled chicken pieces to the smooth gravy, sprinkle kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), and mix gently to combine.

9

Add Cream and Final Seasoning

Stir in the heavy cream and sugar/honey, simmer 3-4 minutes on low heat. Adjust salt and add a splash of lemon juice if needed to balance flavors.

10

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of butter before serving. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice [2].

Video Tutorials

Restaurant Style Butter Chicken

Complete guide with marination, cooking, and sauce preparation

Traditional Murgh Makhani

America's Test Kitchen traditional approach with detailed techniques

Pro Tips & Authentic Techniques

Achieving Authentic Color

Kashmiri dried chilies are essential for that classic deep red color without overwhelming heat. They're the secret to restaurant-style appearance [1]. Avoid using food coloring for an authentic taste.

Smoky Flavor Secret

If you have a tandoor, cooking the marinated chicken there yields the signature smoky flavor. For home cooks, a very hot grill or broiler works well too. Char the edges slightly for best results.

Silky Smooth Gravy

For an ultra-smooth restaurant-style texture, blend the tomato gravy and strain it through a fine mesh before adding the chicken. This removes any bits and creates a luxurious consistency.

The Magic of Kasuri Methi

Crush dried fenugreek leaves between your palms before adding to release their aromatic oils. This herb is crucial for authentic flavor and cannot be substituted.

Richer Variation

For an even richer sauce, add a splash of cashew paste (soaked & blended cashews) alongside the cream. This adds depth and a subtle sweetness that balances the tomatoes.

Make-Ahead Tips

The gravy can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Add the cooked chicken and cream just before serving. The flavors actually improve overnight!

Visual Guide

Butter Chicken close-up Murgh Makhani plated Butter Chicken with naan Restaurant style presentation Cooking process Final dish garnished Butter Chicken bowl Close-up of gravy

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Breads

Fresh naan, butter roti, or flaky parathas are perfect for soaking up the rich gravy

Rice

Steamed basmati rice or fragrant jeera rice complement the creamy sauce beautifully

Beverages

Cool lassi, mango lassi, or light beer help balance the rich, creamy flavors

Complete Meal Ideas

Restaurant Style: Butter chicken + naan + raita + salad

Family Dinner: Butter chicken + basmati rice + dal + papad

Dinner Party: Butter chicken + multiple breads + appetizers + dessert

Quick Meal: Butter chicken + store-bought naan + simple salad

Sources & References

[1] Indian Healthy Recipes

Butter Chicken Recipe (Indian Chicken Makhani)
Authentic recipe with detailed instructions and tips for restaurant-style results

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[2] I Wash You Dry

Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Easy-to-follow authentic Murgh Makhani recipe with tender spiced chicken in rich tomato cream sauce

Visit Source →