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Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

This is a certified showstopper for Food & Vibes—big aroma, bold color, and that creamy finish people go crazy for on live. The charred chicken layered into that buttery sauce creates that “restaurant-level at home” moment every time.

Prep 20 minCook 35 minTotal 55 min1 servingsMedium0 calories
Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

Directions

Tender marinated chicken simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-butter sauce with warm Indian spices—silky, slightly sweet, and deeply comforting.

  1. 1.Marinate the chicken:
  2. 2.In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, spices, salt, and oil until smooth. Add chicken and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  3. 3.Char the chicken:
  4. 4.Cook chicken over high heat using a skillet, grill, or broiler until browned with light charring. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage. Set aside.
  5. 5.Build the sauce:
  6. 6.Heat butter and oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 8–10 minutes until soft and golden. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  7. 7.Bloom the spices:
  8. 8.Add garam masala, paprika, and chili powder. Stir and cook briefly to release their aroma.
  9. 9.Simmer the base:
  10. 10.Add tomato puree and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and deepened in color.
  11. 11.Finish the dish:
  12. 12.Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, sugar (or honey), and salt. Add the chicken back into the sauce along with any juices.
  13. 13.Simmer and develop:
  14. 14.Cook for 10–15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked, tender, and the sauce is rich and glossy.
  15. 15.Final touch:
  16. 16.Crush kasuri methi between your fingers and stir into the sauce at the end for an authentic finish.
  17. 17.Serve:
  18. 18.Spoon over basmati rice or serve with garlic naan. Finish with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

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