butter chicken makhani recipe

The Best butter chicken makhani recipe

I’ve been making butter chicken makhani for years, and it’s still one of my go-to recipes for any occasion. This rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish is a staple in our household, and I love how it’s both comforting and elegant at the same time. The combination of tender chicken, velvety tomato sauce, and aromatic spices is absolutely divine.

My family can’t get enough of it, and I’m sure your loved ones will feel the same way. But what really sets this recipe apart is its simplicity – it’s surprisingly easy to make, even for a weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from the spinach, tomatoes, and lean protein from the chicken.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick meal for your family, this recipe never fails to impress. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good excuse to indulge in some rich, creamy sauce? It’s like a hug in a bowl.

As an added bonus, this recipe freezes beautifully, so feel free to make a double batch and enjoy the leftovers all week long. My kids adore helping me in the kitchen with this one – they love stirring the sauce and watching it simmer down to perfection. And when we sit down to eat together as a family, I always feel grateful for this simple pleasure in life.

So if you’re looking for a new favorite recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your household too – look no further! This butter chicken makhani recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and become a part of your family traditions.

Butter Chicken Makhani

4.7 from 1462 votes

Butter Chicken Makhani is a rich and creamy tomato-based curry with tender chicken pieces. It is flavored with aromatic spices and finished with a generous amount of butter for an indulgent experience.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time60 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 500 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Marinade

500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 tsp ginger paste
1 tsp garlic paste
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp red chili powder
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp salt

For the Sauce

2 tbsp butter
1 large onion finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tbsp ginger minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp red chili powder
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup tomato puree
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a mixing bowl, combine chicken pieces, yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, lemon juice, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt.
2Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
3Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
4In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
5Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and lightly golden.
6This should take about 5 minutes.
7Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet.
8Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
9Add the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, and red chili powder.
10Stir well and cook for another 1 minute.
11Add the diced tomatoes and tomato puree to the skillet.
12Stir well to combine.
13Add sugar and salt.
14Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
15Let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
16The sauce should thicken slightly and the oil should start to separate from the sauce.
17Add the marinated chicken to the skillet.
18Stir well to coat the chicken in the sauce.
19Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
20Stir in the heavy cream and 2 tbsp butter.
21Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
22Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
23Serve the Butter Chicken Makhani hot with naan or rice.
24Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Skillet
Stove

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 500 kcal🧈Total Fat: 30g💛Saturated Fat: 18g❤️Cholesterol: 150mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 7g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier version, add more red chili powder or fresh green chilies. You can also adjust the creaminess by adding more or less heavy cream.

Watch Video Of How Butter Chicken Makhani Works

This butter chicken makhani recipe has been a staple in my household for years – not only because it tastes incredible but also because it’s so versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution or want something special to serve at your next dinner party – this dish has got you covered!

With its rich flavors and creamy texture – it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table. And don’t forget about all those health benefits too!

The spinach adds iron while tomatoes provide vitamin C – making this dish an excellent choice for those looking for nutritious meals without sacrificing flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Chicken Makhani

Q: What is the difference between butter chicken makhani and regular butter chicken?

This is an excellent question! While both dishes share some similarities, makhani refers specifically to the rich tomato-based sauce that’s characteristic of this particular variation of butter chicken. In contrast to traditional butter chicken recipes that rely heavily on yogurt or cream for their flavor and texture – makhani uses fresh tomatoes as its base.

Q: Can I make this recipe without using any heavy cream?

Absolutely! If you’re looking to cut down on calories or prefer a lighter version of this dish – simply substitute heavy cream with plain Greek yogurt or coconut milk instead.

Q: Why do you recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts?

I prefer using boneless skinless chicken breasts because they’re leaner than thighs or legs and cook more evenly throughout.

Q: How do I store leftover butter chicken makhani?

You can store leftover butter chicken makhani in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months.

Q: Can I serve this dish with basmati rice or naan bread?

Both options work beautifully! In fact – serving it with basmati rice or naan bread will help round out the flavors and textures of this dish.

Q: Is there a specific type of tomato paste I should use?

You can use either homemade or store-bought tomato paste for this recipe – whichever suits your needs best.

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