Chicken Makhani (Indian Butter Chicken): Creamy Restaurant-Style Recipe

When it comes to iconic Indian dishes, few recipes have gained as much worldwide love as Chicken Makhani, popularly known as Butter Chicken. With its velvety tomato-based sauce, tender chicken, and aromatic spices, this dish is a true comfort food. But what’s the secret behind its richness, and how can you make it perfectly at home?

What is Chicken Makhani (Butter Chicken)?

Chicken Makhani originated in Delhi in the 1950s at the famous Moti Mahal restaurant, where leftover tandoori chicken was simmered in a creamy tomato gravy. Since then, it has become a global favorite, often served with naan or rice.

“Butter Chicken is more than just a curry—it’s India’s gift to the world of comfort food.”

Ingredients You’ll Need

For a restaurant-style Chicken Makhani, gather the following:

• 500g boneless chicken (cut into medium pieces)
• 2 tbsp butter + 1 tbsp oil
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1/2 cup fresh cream
• 2 tbsp yogurt
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 2 green chilies (slit)
• 1 tbsp cashew paste (optional for creaminess)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

💡 Pro Tip: Marinate the chicken overnight in yogurt, chili powder, and lemon juice for extra tenderness.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Here’s how to prepare authentic Chicken Makhani:

1. Marinate chicken with yogurt, chili powder, turmeric, and ginger-garlic paste. Rest for at least 1 hour.
2. Cook chicken in a pan (or oven grill) until slightly charred. Set aside.
3. Heat butter and oil in a pan, add cumin seeds and green chilies.
4. Add tomato puree and cook until oil separates. Mix in cashew paste for creaminess.
5. Stir in spices – coriander powder, garam masala, chili powder, and salt.
6. Add chicken and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Finish with cream and crushed kasuri methi.
8. Garnish with cilantro and an extra swirl of cream before serving.

Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.

Variations of Chicken Makhani

This dish adapts beautifully to different preferences:

• Lighter Version: Use milk instead of cream.
• Paneer Makhani: Swap chicken for paneer for a vegetarian twist.
• Spicy Butter Chicken: Add extra chili or whole spices for more heat.
• Butter Chicken Pasta: Toss the creamy curry with pasta for fusion delight.

Nutrition and Health Tips

While Chicken Makhani is indulgent, you can make it healthier with small tweaks:

• Use lean chicken breast instead of thighs.
• Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut milk.
• Pair with whole-grain naan or brown rice for added fiber.

👉 On average, one serving of butter chicken provides 350–400 calories, making it a satisfying yet occasional treat.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Makhani pairs best with:

• Garlic naan or butter roti.
• Steamed basmati rice or jeera rice.
• Cucumber raita and pickled onions for freshness.