Name: Chicken Makhani Recipe: A Creamy Delight of Indian Flavors
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast; 1 cup plain yogurt; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp ground cardamom; 1 tsp ground cloves; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 cup butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can tomato sauce; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt to taste; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Jump to Recipe

Chicken Makhani, also known as Butter Chicken, is a rich and creamy Indian dish that has won the hearts of food lovers all around the world. With its tender, marinated chicken cooked in a luscious, spiced tomato gravy, Chicken Makhani offers a perfect balance of flavors. The creamy sauce, enriched with butter and heavy cream, complements the aromatic spices, making every bite irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this Chicken Makhani recipe will undoubtedly become a family favorite.

The key to this dish lies in the marinade, where yogurt, lemon juice, and a medley of warm spices tenderize the chicken and infuse it with incredible flavor. As the chicken simmers in the creamy tomato sauce, it becomes infused with the spices, and the butter creates a smooth, velvety texture that is hard to resist. Served with naan or rice, this dish brings the taste of authentic Indian cuisine right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Makhani is a beloved dish because of its rich and comforting flavor profile. The marinade ensures the chicken is juicy and flavorful, while the creamy sauce is the perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and rich. The spices used in this dish create a complex, yet harmonious, taste that will excite your taste buds with every bite. The best part? It’s not just a treat for the palate; it’s easy to make too! The combination of simple ingredients and straightforward steps makes this recipe a must-try for both novice and seasoned cooks alike. Whether you enjoy indulging in flavorful meals or seeking a dish to make for a special occasion, Chicken Makhani fits every occasion.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breast
Plain yogurt
Lemon juice
Chili powder
Ground cumin
Ground cinnamon
Ground coriander
Ground cardamom
Ground cloves
Paprika
Butter
Onion
Garlic
Tomato sauce
Heavy cream
Salt
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Variations

Chicken Makhani with Paneer: For a vegetarian alternative, replace the chicken with cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese). Marinate the paneer and cook it the same way.
Spicy Version: Increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Low-Fat Version: Substitute heavy cream with a lighter alternative like coconut milk or use reduced-fat yogurt and butter.
Smoky Flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke or use chargrilled chicken for a smoky touch.
Tomato Paste Addition: For a richer tomato flavor, you can mix in some tomato paste along with the tomato sauce.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine plain yogurt, lemon juice, chili powder, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, ground coriander, ground cardamom, ground cloves, and paprika. Mix everything well to form a smooth marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken breast pieces into the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion softens and becomes translucent.

Step 4: Add the Tomato Sauce and Cream

Stir in the tomato sauce and heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors combine.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken and any remaining marinade into the skillet. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Season with Salt

Season the dish with salt to taste, adjusting to your preference.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish the Chicken Makhani with freshly chopped cilantro before serving. Serve it hot with naan bread or steamed rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Marinate the Chicken Longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight.
Butter: Don’t skimp on the butter; it gives the dish its signature richness and creaminess.
Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chili powder or paprika.
Consistent Heat: Ensure that the heat is medium when cooking the chicken, as cooking it too fast can result in dry chicken.
Creamy Texture: If you want an even creamier sauce, add a bit more heavy cream towards the end of cooking.

How to Serve

Chicken Makhani is traditionally served with naan, a soft Indian flatbread that soaks up the creamy sauce, or basmati rice, which complements the richness of the dish. You can also serve it with roti or even a side of sautéed vegetables. A small side of raita (yogurt with cucumbers and spices) can balance the spices and add a cool, refreshing element to the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chicken Makhani can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to restore its creamy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze Chicken Makhani for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Reheating

To reheat, place the dish in a pan over low heat, adding a little cream or water to maintain the consistency of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but it will take longer to cook. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.

2. Can I make this dish without yogurt?

While yogurt is essential for marinating, you can use sour cream as an alternative if needed.

3. Is Chicken Makhani spicy?

It has a mild to medium spice level, but you can adjust the spice by adding more or less chili powder.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe as they remain tender and juicy.

5. Can I use dairy-free substitutes?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with ghee or olive oil and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

6. How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but for the best results, marinate it for 4 hours or overnight.

7. Can I make Chicken Makhani in a slow cooker?

Yes, after marinating the chicken, cook it on low for 4-6 hours in a slow cooker, adding the cream in the last 30 minutes.

8. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the sauce further by simmering it for a longer time or adding a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.

9. Can I add vegetables to Chicken Makhani?

Yes, vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or spinach can be added to enhance the dish.

10. What is the difference between Chicken Makhani and Chicken Tikka Masala?

While both dishes are similar, Chicken Makhani uses more butter and cream, making the sauce richer, whereas Chicken Tikka Masala has a spicier, tomato-based sauce.

Conclusion

Chicken Makhani is a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying dish that brings the best of Indian cuisine into your home. With its tender chicken, rich spices, and velvety sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish is easy to prepare and delivers exceptional taste every time. Pair it with naan or rice, and you have a comforting meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.