Rich and Flavorful Chicken Makhani Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of indulging in a creamy and spiced chicken dish, Chicken Makhani is the answer. This beloved Indian Butter Chicken recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a luscious tomato and butter sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself, it’s a dish that embodies warmth and richness.

Picture this: a plate of Chicken Makhani served with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan, with flavors that are both comforting and exciting. This recipe is a testament to the magic of Indian cuisine, where simple ingredients come together to create a robust and savory meal. Plus, it’s easier to prepare than you might think!

Exploring Chicken Makhani

Chicken Makhani, often referred to as Butter Chicken, is a dish that captivates with its rich flavors and comforting warmth. This classic Indian recipe features tender pieces of marinated chicken, slow-cooked to perfection in a velvety tomato sauce.

The combination of spices creates a harmonious blend that elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Each bite reveals layers of flavor, from the warmth of cumin to the sweetness of finely blended tomatoes. Paired with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan, it makes for a delightful meal any time of the year.

Ingredients That Shine

The beauty of Chicken Makhani lies in its simple yet effective ingredients. At the heart of this dish is the marinated chicken, which is crucial for infusing flavor and tenderness.

Common spices like ground cumin, coriander, and garam masala bring an aromatic essence that is characteristic of Indian cuisine. Additionally, the inclusion of yogurt helps to tenderize the chicken, while the heavy cream provides a smooth, rich texture to the sauce.

Cooking Process

Preparing Chicken Makhani is straightforward, making it approachable for cooks of all skill levels. The first step involves marinating the chicken, allowing it to soak up the delightful spices and yogurt.

Once marinated, the chicken is cooked until browned, setting the stage for the creation of the sauce. Using the same skillet, sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger introduces a fragrant base, which is then complemented by the addition of tomato puree and cream.

Best Amazon Picks :

• Instant Pot Duo Plus
• Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillets Set
• Knife Sets with Built-in Sharpener
• Precision Vacuum Sealer

Serving Suggestions

To serve Chicken Makhani, garnish with fresh cilantro to enhance its vibrant appearance and provide a fresh contrast to the rich sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, allowing the fluffy grains to soak up the savory sauce.

Alternatively, warm naan bread is perfect for dipping, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special gathering, Chicken Makhani is sure to impress.

The Atmosphere

When serving Chicken Makhani, the setting can enhance the overall experience. A rustic wooden table provides a warm backdrop, complementing the dish’s inviting nature.

The vibrant colors of the dish, along with the fresh cilantro garnish, create a feast for the eyes. This combination of aesthetics and flavor makes it a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also delights the senses.

Nutrition Insights

Chicken Makhani can be a wholesome addition to your meal repertoire. With approximately 490 calories per serving, it offers a balance of protein and fats, making it a fulfilling choice.

Not only does it provide a comforting meal, but it also delivers essential nutrients from its ingredients. The chicken offers a good source of protein, while the spices bring their own health benefits, contributing to a well-rounded dish.

Authentic Chicken Makhani Recipe

This Chicken Makhani features marinated chicken cooked in a creamy tomato sauce, infused with aromatic spices including cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The sauce is rich, velvety, and subtly sweet, making it an exquisite dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken (discard excess marinade) and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter, onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until onions are translucent. Stir in the tomato puree, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Add Creaminess: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm with naan or basmati rice.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 490kcal
• Fat: 35g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

Author’s Top Recipe Picks

• Corned Beef and Cabbage
• Fish Tacos Recipe
• Honey Glazed Salmon
• Top Cooking Tips