Best Murgh Makhani Recipe: Restaurant-Style Butter Chicken Guide
Learn how to make authentic Murgh Makhanwala, a rich and creamy Punjabi chicken curry. Easy step-by-step recipe with tips for perfect results every time.
Ahmed Mainul 
Murgh Makhanwala, often celebrated as the rich, buttery cousin of butter chicken, hails from the vibrant culinary traditions of North India. This dish transforms tender chicken pieces into a luxurious symphony of flavors, where a velvety tomato‑based sauce is enriched with cream, aromatic spices, and a hint of sweetness that balances the heat. Its glossy, amber‑hued gravy clings to each morsel, offering a comforting depth that makes it a favorite for both festive gatherings and everyday meals.
The secret to an unforgettable Murgh Makhanwala lies in the careful layering of spices—cumin, coriander, garam masala, and a touch of kasuri methi—combined with the slow simmering of onions, ginger, and garlic to build a robust foundation. Finished with a swirl of fresh cream and a garnish of chopped cilantro, the dish achieves a perfect harmony of tangy, sweet, and savory notes that elevate the humble chicken to restaurant‑worthy excellence.
- Boneless chicken thighs or breast, cut into bite‑size pieces
- Ripe tomatoes pureed (or canned tomato puree)
- Heavy cream or full‑fat yogurt for richness
- Butter and oil for sautéing
- Onion, finely chopped
- Ginger‑garlic paste
- Ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala
- Dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
- Sugar or honey (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Warm naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice for serving
Ingredients
- 500 g chicken
- 100 g butter
- 200 ml cream
- 2 large onions
- 3 tomatoes
- 1 tbsp ginger garlic paste
- 2 green chilies
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1 cup yogurt
- 2 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
- 1 tbsp kasuri methi
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
Directions
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2. Step 2
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4. Step 4
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7. Step 7
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