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Classic Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)
60 mintime
Mediumdifficulty
4Servings
Rating
Nutrition facts
700 kcalCalories
45 gProtein
25 gCarbs
45 gFat

Per serving · Approximate values estimated by AI

Classic Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

Traditional dish · Indian

A quintessential North Indian dish featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, creamy, and mildly spiced tomato-based gravy, finished with butter and cream.

Ingredients

Servings4
  • Chicken thighs, boneless, skinless1.5 lbs
  • Plain yogurt1/2 cup
  • Ginger paste1 tbsp
  • Garlic paste1 tbsp
  • Garam masala1 tsp
  • Turmeric powder1/2 tsp
  • Red chili powder1 tsp
  • Saltto taste
  • Butter4 tbsp
  • Onion, finely chopped1 medium
  • Tomatoes, pureed2 cups
  • Cashews, soaked and ground to a paste1/4 cup
  • Heavy cream1/2 cup
  • Fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), crushed1 tbsp
  • Water1/2 cup
  • Cilantro, fresh, choppedfor garnish

Steps

  1. 1

    Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine chicken with yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer in the refrigerator.

  2. 2

    Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a large pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.

  3. 3

    Add the remaining 2 tbsp of butter to the same pan. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.

  4. 4

    Stir in the pureed tomatoes and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil starts to separate from the sauce.

  5. 5

    Add the cashew paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

  6. 6

    Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a simmer. Return the browned chicken to the pan. Cover and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

  7. 7

    Stir in the heavy cream and crushed fenugreek leaves. Simmer for another 5 minutes, but do not boil.

  8. 8

    Adjust salt if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.

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