How to Make Vegetarian Butter Chicken with Chapathi (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Butter Chicken with Chapathi is an iconic North Indian dish, beloved for its creamy tomato-based gravy and soft, tender texture. Traditionally known as ‘Murgh Makhani,’ this vegetarian adaptation uses succulent paneer cubes in place of chicken, making it suitable for vegetarian diets while retaining all the rich flavors. The gentle spices, kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), and a touch of fresh cream create a luxurious, aromatic curry that pairs perfectly with warm chapathis made from whole wheat 'atta'. This dish is a staple in Punjabi households and is often the star at family gatherings, weddings, and festivals like Lohri and Diwali. The combination of butter-infused curry and soft chapathis offers a comforting, satisfying meal that appeals to all ages. Whether enjoyed as a special weekend lunch or a festive treat, Butter Chicken with Chapathi brings the essence of North Indian cuisine to your table, celebrating India’s culinary diversity with every bite.
Ingredients
- 200g Paneer (cottage cheese) (fresh, cut into cubes)
- 1 cup Whole wheat atta (for chapathi)
- 3 medium Tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 large Onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Low-fat cream (malai or fresh cream)
- 1 tbsp Ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp Kashmiri red chilli powder (for color)
- 1/2 tsp Garam masala
- 1 tsp Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- 1 tbsp Butter (unsalted, use less for lower calories)
- to taste Salt
- 1 tsp Oil (for roasting chapathi)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare the chapathi dough by mixing atta with a pinch of salt and ...
Prepare the chapathi dough by mixing atta with a pinch of salt and enough water to form a soft, pliable dough. Cover and rest for 10 minutes.
Step 2 · Heat a pan and melt half the butter
Heat a pan and melt half the butter. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2 minutes.
Step 3 · Add tomato puree
Add tomato puree, Kashmiri red chilli powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates and the gravy thickens.
Step 4 · Add paneer cubes
Add paneer cubes, garam masala, and kasuri methi. Mix gently and cook for 3 minutes. Pour in the low-fat cream and remaining butter, simmer for 2 more minutes.
Step 5 · While the curry simmers
While the curry simmers, divide the dough into small balls. Roll each into a thin circle using a rolling pin.
Step 6 · Heat a tawa and cook each chapathi on both sides until golden brown...
Heat a tawa and cook each chapathi on both sides until golden brown spots appear. Brush lightly with oil if desired.
Step 7 · Serve hot vegetarian butter chicken garnished with fresh coriander ...
Serve hot vegetarian butter chicken garnished with fresh coriander alongside chapathis.
Why this recipe is healthy
Opting for paneer instead of chicken supports vegetarian diets and supplies essential amino acids and calcium. Using whole wheat atta for chapathi increases fiber content, aiding digestion and providing sustained energy. The recipe minimizes excess butter and cream, making it lighter yet satisfying. Such mindful ingredient choices make this Butter Chicken with Chapathi a wholesome, guilt-free lunch option for health-conscious individuals.
A note on tradition
Butter Chicken with Chapathi is a signature dish from Punjab, often featured in celebratory feasts and festival spreads. Though originally non-vegetarian, the vegetarian version with paneer is widely enjoyed across North India, especially during Navratri and other occasions when many people observe vegetarian diets. Chapathi is a staple bread in Indian homes, symbolizing health and simplicity. This combination showcases the adaptability of Indian cuisine while honoring its roots.