January 3, 2023

Authentic Murgh Makhani – Butter Chicken Recipe with History & Health Tips

Discover the rich flavors of Murgh Makhani, also known as Butter Chicken. This dish blends tender chicken with a creamy tomato-based sauce and aromatic spices, offering a journey through history, culture, and wellness.

Murgh Makhani, or Butter Chicken, is an iconic dish that has earned a place on the global culinary stage for its irresistible flavor and creamy richness. Originating in India, this dish has grown beyond its roots to become a beloved classic worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice, Butter Chicken offers a perfect blend of bold, comforting flavors with a surprising array of health benefits.

A Journey Through History and Cultural Significance

Murgh Makhani was born in Delhi in the 1940s, created by Chef Kundan Lal Gujral at Moti Mahal restaurant. This dish was a creative solution to repurpose leftover tandoori chicken. By simmering the chicken in a rich tomato sauce with butter and cream, Chef Gujral transformed a humble leftover into a culinary masterpiece.

The dish quickly became popular, not just in India but across the globe, as it appealed to a wide range of palates. Murgh Makhani’s versatility and indulgent yet balanced flavor profile have made it a favorite in Indian restaurants worldwide.

In its global evolution, Butter Chicken has adapted to regional tastes—spicier in parts of Southeast Asia, creamier in Western variations, and sometimes lighter with yogurt replacing heavy cream in health-conscious adaptations.

Why Murgh Makhani is a Global Favorite

Murgh Makhani continues to captivate diners for its creamy texture, balanced spice profile, and comforting appeal. In an age where people seek both indulgence and health-conscious meals, Butter Chicken strikes the perfect balance. With high-protein content and antioxidant-rich spices, it’s a meal that nourishes while it delights.

Social media trends have further boosted its popularity, with creative adaptations like Butter Chicken pizza, tacos, and even vegan versions making waves.

Ingredients that Make the Magic

Authenticity and Quality Ingredients Matter:
The foundation of Murgh Makhani lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Here’s a closer look:

Chicken Thighs: Preferred for their juicy, tender texture. Boneless thighs work best.
Greek Yogurt: Adds tanginess and tenderizes the meat in the marinade.
Turmeric, Cumin, Garam Masala: These spices provide depth and warmth, with anti-inflammatory benefits from turmeric.
Fresh Tomatoes & Tomato Paste: For a rich, tangy base. Fresh tomatoes are best when in season.
Butter & Cream: For that signature creamy finish, though coconut milk can substitute for a dairy-free version.
Garlic, Ginger, & Onions: Essential aromatics that bring the dish to life.
Chilies: Adjust based on your spice tolerance. Anaheim chilies offer mild heat.
Cilantro & Almonds: Fresh cilantro brightens the dish, while almonds provide texture and a nutrient boost.

Print Pin

MURGH MAKHANI – BUTTER CHICKEN

Indulge in the rich flavors of Murg Makhani, also known as Butter Chicken, with this easy and delicious recipe. Tender chicken thighs marinated in aromatic spices, simmered in a creamy tomato sauce, and garnished with fragrant cilantro leaves. It’s a must-try dish for poultry lovers!

Course Poultry

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Servings 6

Author N. Jay Sorensen, MBA RDN

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups Greek yogurt Full Fat
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 1/2 tablespoons ground turmeric
2 tablespoons ground cumin
3 pounds chicken thighs without skin
1/4 pound unsalted butter
4 teaspoons canola oil
2 each medium yellow onions
4 cloves garlic
3 tablespoons fresh ginger
1 tablespoon cumin seeds
1 tablespoon each cinnamon stick
2 tablespoon medium tomatoes — diced
2 tablespoon each Anahiem chiles — seeded and diced
kosher salt — to taste
2/3 cup chicken stock
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 1/2 teaspoons tomato paste
3 tablespoons almonds — chopped
1/2 bunch cilantro

Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, and ground cumin. Add the boneless chicken thighs and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for up to a day.
In a large pan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter with canola oil until it starts to foam. Add the onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they become translucent. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and cumin seeds, and continue cooking until the onions begin to brown.
Add the cinnamon stick, diced tomatoes, Anaheim chiles, and salt to the pan. Cook for about 10 minutes until the chiles become soft.
Add the marinated chicken along with the marinade to the pan. Cook for 5 minutes, then pour in the chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for approximately 30 minutes.
Stir in the heavy whipping cream and tomato paste. Simmer for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Add the chopped almonds and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Serve the delicious Murg Makhani with steamed rice or naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes

Enjoy the rich and flavorful Murg Makhani, a classic butter chicken dish that will delight your taste buds!

Chef Tips for the Perfect Murgh Makhani

Marinate Well: Marinate the chicken for at least 12 hours for optimal flavor.
Fresh Spices: Toast and grind your spices for the freshest, most vibrant flavors.
Low & Slow: Simmer the sauce gently to allow flavors to develop fully.
Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute cream with cashew cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for paneer or tofu. Both soak up the sauce beautifully.

Nutrition Profile and Health Benefits

While Murgh Makhani is indulgent, it also offers significant nutritional benefits when prepared mindfully:

High Protein: Supports muscle growth and repair, with chicken providing a lean protein source.
Healthy Fats: Despite the butter and cream, these fats promote satiety and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Antioxidants: Turmeric and cumin are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may support heart health.
Vitamins & Minerals: Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, while almonds provide vitamin E and magnesium.

Lighten It Up: Reduce the butter and replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or whole-grain basmati rice for a balanced meal.

Creative Serving Ideas

Traditional Pairing: Serve with steamed basmati rice or warm naan for a classic experience.
Healthy Bowl: Pair with quinoa, sautéed greens, and cucumber-yogurt salad for a modern twist.
Fusion Fun: Try Butter Chicken tacos with slaw, or use it as a pizza topping for a delicious fusion meal.
Vegetarian Take: Use paneer or tofu for a meatless option, or try roasted cauliflower for a plant-based adaptation.

Food Safety Considerations

Chicken Temperature: Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers within two hours and consume within three days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cross-Contamination: Always wash hands and surfaces after handling raw chicken.

Conclusion

Murgh Makhani is a testament to the power of culinary creativity and cultural adaptation. From its humble beginnings in a Delhi restaurant to its global fame, this dish continues to inspire and delight. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or give it a modern twist, Butter Chicken is a dish worth savoring and sharing.

Ready to try this iconic dish? Follow the recipe below and embark on a flavorful journey. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments!