Easy Indian Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is not just a dish; it’s an experience that captivates the senses. This popular Indian comfort food is known for its rich and creamy texture, along with a robust blend of aromatic spices that creates an unforgettable flavor profile. Perfectly suited for those who enjoy a delightful taste adventure, this simplified version uses boneless chicken, making it accessible and quick to prepare—ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

The appeal of Easy Indian Butter Chicken goes beyond flavor alone; it’s a dish that unites friends and family around the dinner table. As the chicken simmers in a luscious sauce made from tomatoes, cream, and spices, the whole kitchen fills with mouth-watering aromas that make it hard to resist. It’s truly one of those meals that calls for extra naan, perfect for soaking up every bit of the delicious sauce. Not only does this recipe fulfill cravings for rich, comforting food, but it also showcases the beauty of Indian cooking with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Indian Butter Chicken

Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and creamy texture creates a rich flavor that’s unmatched.
Quick and Easy: With simple preparation and cooking steps, you can enjoy this delicious dish in under an hour.
Family-Friendly: The mild flavors make it a hit, even among kids and those new to Indian cuisine.
Versatile: Serve it over rice, with naan, or even with veggies for a complete meal.
Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers store perfectly, allowing for tasty meals throughout the week.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into making your Easy Indian Butter Chicken, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen environment. Start by gathering all your ingredients to ensure you have everything on hand when needed. A large pot or a deep skillet is perfect for this recipe, as it allows you to sauté and simmer the chicken comfortably. You might also want a wooden spoon for stirring and a whisk to help thicken the sauce.

Having measuring cups and spoons ready can streamline your cooking process, particularly for spices and liquids. Additionally, setting up a small cutting board for chopping your onions and garlic will keep your workspace organized. With everything prepped, you can truly enjoy the cooking experience, focusing on the scents and flavors of the dish as they come together.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons peanut oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 bay leaf
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Start by heating the peanut oil in your large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pieces of boneless chicken. Cook them for about five minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the chicken to develop a light golden-brown color. This step ensures that the chicken has a beautiful flavor base, which will deepen as it cooks with other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

After achieving a nice sear on the chicken, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the butter and let it melt before introducing the diced onions. Cook the onions for approximately two minutes until they become soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, allowing it to cook for an additional 30 seconds to a minute until fragrant. This will lay the flavorful foundation of your Butter Chicken.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Bring in the depth of flavor by mixing in the ginger, garam masala, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and the bay leaf. Stir these spices into the onion and garlic mixture for about a minute until they release their delightful aromas—this step is essential for maximizing flavor.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Next, it’s time to stir in the tomato paste along with the crushed tomatoes. Lower the heat to allow the mixture to simmer gently. After a few moments, reintroduce the chicken and then add the heavy cream and yogurt, stirring everything together well. Allow the sauce to simmer for about ten minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the liquid reduces by a third. This is where the magic happens as the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

For a perfect buttery texture, combine the cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl before adding it to the pot. Whisk thoroughly until incorporated and allow the mixture to cook until it thickens, approximately five to ten minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt to taste, enhancing the overall flavor.

Variations

Protein: Try using shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Vegetables: Add spinach or peas for extra nutrition and color.
Spices: Adjust the spice levels to your preference by increasing or decreasing the chili powder.

Cooking Notes

To make it a one-pot meal, cook your rice alongside the chicken in the same pot once it has enough liquid.
Ensure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm over fluffy basmati rice or with buttery naan.
Add a side of cucumber raita for a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce.

Tips

Marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices for a couple of hours before cooking for even richer flavor.
Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

What is Butter Chicken?

Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is an Indian dish made from marinated chicken pieces cooked in a creamy tomato sauce, often spiced with garam masala and other aromatic spices.

Can I make Butter Chicken without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or use low-fat yogurt for a lighter version.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Is Butter Chicken spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted according to your preference. It’s generally mild, but you can increase the chili powder for extra heat.

Conclusion

Easy Indian Butter Chicken is the perfect way to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors at home with ease. Not only does this dish delight the taste buds, but it also allows for versatility and creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a loved one, or a crowd, this recipe allows you to share a little slice of Indian culinary tradition. So grab some naan and dive into the creamy, comforting world of Butter Chicken. Don’t forget to try some variations or experiments of your own, and if you love this recipe, share your thoughts in the comments below!