Traditional Indian Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

Serves: 3–4

Prep time: 20 mins

Cook time: 35 mins

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks

• ½ cup plain yogurt

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 tsp garam masala

• 1 tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp chili powder or paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp oil

For the Butter Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 tbsp oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp grated ginger

• 2 tsp garam masala

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to heat preference)

• 1 cup tomato puree (or crushed tomatoes)

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half and half for lighter version)

• 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for deeper flavor)

• 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity)

• Salt to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:

   
   

   Combine yogurt, lemon juice, and spices. Add chicken and mix well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (overnight for best flavor).

2. Cook the Chicken:

   
   

   In a skillet or pan, heat 1 tbsp oil and cook chicken on medium-high heat until browned on all sides (it doesn’t have to be fully cooked through). Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:

   
   

   In the same pan, melt butter and add chopped onion. Sauté until golden brown. Add garlic and ginger; cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add Spices:

   
   

   Stir in garam masala, coriander, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 30 seconds to release the aromas.

5. Add Tomato Base:

   
   

   Pour in tomato puree and tomato paste. Stir well and let simmer for 10 minutes until thickened and the oil begins to separate.

6. Add Cream & Chicken:

   
   

   Reduce heat to low. Add cream, sugar, and salt. Mix, then return the chicken to the pan. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce is creamy.

7. Finish:

   
   

   Stir in a final knob of butter for that silky texture. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of cream if desired.