Butter Chicken: The Best Traditional & Easy Recipe Guide You’ll Ever Need

Introduction

Butter chicken is a global favorite — rich, creamy, and packed with spices that awaken the taste buds. This article dives deep into everything you need to know about butter chicken. From its Indian roots to step-by-step cooking guides (even for Thermomix users!), we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, you’ll discover techniques, tips, and secrets to nailing this iconic dish.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Thai Green Curry recipe if you’re craving another creamy and spicy comfort dish.

Chicken thighs and Indian spices for butter chicken

– Cultural Significance and Global Popularity

From street food stalls in Mumbai to high-end restaurants in New York, butter chicken has earned its spot on international menus. Its creamy texture and balanced spices make it a comfort food classic that transcends cultures.

The Origin of Butter Chicken

– Tracing the Roots of Indian Butter Chicken

Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, originated in Delhi in the 1950s. It was created at the famous Moti Mahal restaurant by Kundan Lal Gujral, who combined leftover tandoori chicken with a buttery tomato-based sauce.

 

Traditional Butter Chicken Recette Explained

– Authentic Ingredients in Traditional Recipes

A traditional butter chicken recette includes tandoori chicken, tomatoes, butter, cream, and a blend of spices like garam masala, fenugreek, and chili powder.

 

Chicken thighs and Indian spices for butter chicken

– Cooking Method: From Marination to Simmering

Start by marinating the chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, and spices. Then, grill or bake the chicken before simmering it in the rich tomato-butter gravy for that signature flavor.

 

Print
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Chicken thighs and Indian spices for butter chicken

Butter Chicken


  • Total Time: 50

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g chicken thighs

  • 1 cup plain yogurt

  • 2 tbsp lemon juice

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 1 cup tomato purée

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • 1 tsp garam masala

  • ½ tsp chili powder

  • 1 tsp turmeric

  • 1 tsp cumin

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 tbsp kasuri methi (fenugreek leaves)


Instructions

  • Marinate chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, and salt for 15–30 mins.

  • Cook chicken in butter until lightly browned.

  • Add spices and tomato purée, simmer for 10 mins.

  • Stir in cream and kasuri methi. Cook another 10 mins.

 

  • Serve with rice or naan.

  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 30

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 30
  • Carbohydrates: 12
  • Protein: 32
Chicken thighs and Indian spices for butter chicken

Garam masala, chili powder, turmeric, cumin, and kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) are must-haves. Don’t have fenugreek? Try a pinch of mustard seeds or celery salt for a similar earthy note.

Discover great ideas like Lamb Kefta – a flavorful Mediterranean delight if you’re looking to expand your spice game.

Choosing the Right Ingredients for the Best Flavor

– Best Cuts of Chicken for Juicy Butter Chicken

Boneless thighs are ideal—they stay juicy even after simmering. Breast meat can be used but might dry out if overcooked.

– Essential Spices and Substitutions

 

FAQs About Butter Chicken

Butter chicken recipe

Butter chicken starts with marinated chicken, often grilled or pan-fried, then simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce with spices like garam masala, chili powder, and turmeric. It’s typically served with basmati rice or naan.

Butter chicken recette traditionnelle

La recette traditionnelle de butter chicken, aussi appelée murgh makhani, implique du poulet tandoori mariné, une sauce à la tomate, du beurre, de la crème et des épices indiennes comme le garam masala.

Butter chicken indien

Butter chicken is one of the most iconic Indian dishes, born in Delhi and blending rich Mughlai flavors with Punjabi spice traditions. It reflects the fusion of North Indian culinary heritage.

Butter chicken ingredients

Main ingredients include chicken thighs, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, butter, cream, tomato purée, and spices like cumin, coriander, garam masala, chili powder, and fenugreek.

Chicken thighs and Indian spices for butter chicken

Conclusion

Butter chicken is more than just a dish—it’s a delicious journey through Indian culinary tradition. From its rich history to the easy home-cooked adaptations and even Thermomix convenience, there’s something for everyone in this flavorful favorite.
Don’t miss our Authentic Thai Green Curry Recipe or Delicious Lamb Kefta for more spicy indulgences that hit the spot!

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