Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is one of the most iconic North Indian dishes beloved across the globe. This easy, one-serving butter chicken recipe delivers restaurant-style flavors using simple ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or indulgent weekend meals, this dish combines marinated chicken in a spiced tomato and buttery cream sauce. Whether you’re searching for “authentic butter chicken recipe,” “easy Indian chicken curry,” or “best North Indian chicken recipe,” this guide covers it all.
Why Butter Chicken Is So Famous & Its Regional Origin
Ingredient List for 1 Serving
- 150g boneless chicken (preferably thigh)
- 2 tbsp plain yogurt – Organic Yogurt Option
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder – Kashmiri Red Chili
- 1 tsp ginger garlic paste
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp oil (vegetable or ghee)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium tomato, pureed
- 1/4 tsp garam masala
- 2 tbsp fresh cream or heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, mix yogurt, turmeric, red chili powder, salt, and ginger garlic paste. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tsp oil in a pan. Sear marinated chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy
In the same pan, add butter. Sauté onions until soft and golden. Add tomato puree and cook until oil separates.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Add garam masala and a pinch of chili powder (if desired). Mix in cooked chicken and simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Step 5: Finish with Cream
Stir in cream and simmer for another 2–3 minutes. Adjust salt. Garnish with chopped coriander.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot with naan, roti, or basmati rice.
Nutritional Chart (Approximate for 1 Serving)
| Calories | 410 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |