Chicken Makhani (Indian Butter Chicken)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this Chicken Makhani is a must-try:

• Rich, Creamy Sauce: The tomato puree, yogurt, and half-and-half create a luscious, creamy sauce that’s both comforting and indulgent.

• Customizable Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the level of spice, making it as mild or fiery as you prefer.

• Quick to Make: In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

• Perfect Pairing: This dish goes perfectly with fluffy basmati rice and warm, pillowy naan bread.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful Chicken Makhani:

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons peanut oil, divided

• 1 shallot, finely chopped

• ¼ white onion, chopped

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

• 2 teaspoons garam masala, divided

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 cup tomato puree

• 1 cup half-and-half

• ¼ cup plain yogurt

• Salt and ground black pepper to taste

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

For Thickening:

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• ¼ cup water

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce

• Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.

• Sauté the shallot and onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

• Stir in butter, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, 1 teaspoon garam masala, chili powder, ground cumin, and bay leaf. Cook and stir for 1 minute.

• Add the tomato puree and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

• Stir in half-and-half and yogurt, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.

• Once browned, reduce the heat and season with the remaining 1 teaspoon garam masala and cayenne pepper.

• Stir in a few spoonfuls of the prepared sauce and simmer until the liquid reduces and the chicken is no longer pink.

3. Combine and Thicken the Sauce

• Add the cooked chicken into the prepared sauce and stir to combine.

• Dissolve the cornstarch in the ¼ cup water and stir it into the sauce.

• Cook for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

4. Serve

• Serve the Chicken Makhani over basmati rice and with naan bread on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired for an added burst of freshness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken for paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu for a vegetarian alternative.

• Spice Adjustments: Add more cayenne pepper or chili powder if you like your dish spicier. Alternatively, reduce the amount for a milder flavor.

• Add Veggies: Add vegetables like peas or spinach to the sauce for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Fridge: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheat: Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop. You may need to add a little water or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

• Freezing: You can freeze the chicken makhani for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing, then thaw and reheat when ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breast, but chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it and add the cooked chicken when ready to serve.

What’s the best side dish to serve with Chicken Makhani?

Basmati rice and naan bread are the perfect accompaniments. You can also serve a side salad or roasted vegetables for balance.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can adjust the spice level by increasing the cayenne pepper, chili powder, or adding fresh green chilies.

What is garam masala?

Garam masala is a popular spice blend in Indian cooking, typically containing cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, cumin, coriander, and nutmeg. It adds a warm, aromatic flavor to dishes.

Conclusion

Chicken Makhani (Butter Chicken) is a rich, flavorful dish that brings the vibrant spices of Indian cuisine to your table. With its creamy, spiced sauce and tender chicken, it’s a comforting and indulgent meal that’s easy to make at home. Pair it with rice and naan for a complete, satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!

Print