Garlic Butter Chicken
Lunch • India
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Garlic Butter Chicken, or 'Lahsun Makhan Murga', is a popular North Indian lunch recipe celebrated for its rich, aromatic flavors and comforting texture. This dish blends tender paneer pieces (for a vegetarian twist) with a luscious garlic-infused butter sauce, making it a standout at family gatherings and festive spreads. Originating from the Punjab region, Garlic Butter Chicken is inspired by classic tandoori and makhani styles, revered for their creamy gravies and robust spices. The use of fresh lahsun (garlic), makhan (butter), and a balanced mix of spices creates a mouthwatering meal that's both satisfying and easy on calories. Traditionally enjoyed during festivals like Holi and Diwali, this healthier version uses low-fat paneer and less butter, making it suitable for calorie-conscious eaters. Served with whole wheat roti (atta roti) or brown rice, it provides a wholesome meal that celebrates Indian culinary heritage. Its gentle spice profile and creamy texture appeal to all age groups, making it a favorite for both lunch and festive occasions. Garlic Butter Chicken is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of North Indian flavors, crafted to fit modern health needs without compromising on authenticity.
Ingredients(for 1 bowl (approx. 200g paneer in gravy))
- 200 grams Paneer (fresh, cubed)
- 1 tablespoon Butter (makhan) (low-fat preferred)
- 6 cloves Garlic (lahsun) (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup Tomato puree (fresh)
- 1 medium Onion (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Ginger (adrak) (grated)
- 1 Green chilli (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Coriander powder (dhaniya)
- 1/2 teaspoon Red chilli powder (lal mirch)
- 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1 teaspoon Kasuri methi (crushed) - optional
- 2 tablespoons Low-fat cream (malai) (optional for richer texture) - optional
- to taste Salt
- 2 tablespoons Fresh coriander leaves (chopped for garnish)
Instructions
- 1
Heat a tawa or kadhai and add butter. Allow it to melt on low flame.
2 minutes
Use low-fat butter to reduce calories.
- 2
Add chopped garlic and ginger. Sauté until garlic turns golden and releases aroma.
3 minutes
Don’t burn garlic; it should be just golden for best flavor.
- 3
Add chopped onion and green chilli. Cook until onion turns translucent.
4 minutes
Stir frequently for even cooking.
- 4
Add tomato puree, turmeric, coriander powder, red chilli powder, and salt. Cook until oil separates and masala thickens.
5 minutes
Cover the pan to speed up cooking.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing low-fat paneer and butter reduces calories and saturated fat, making this dish lighter without sacrificing flavor. The use of natural spices, minimal oil, and fresh vegetables supports digestion, immunity, and overall wellness. This recipe fits well into weight loss, diabetic, and balanced diets, offering protein and fiber for sustained energy and fullness.
This Garlic Butter Chicken (vegetarian) offers a balanced meal packed with protein from paneer, healthy fats from low-fat butter, and essential vitamins from garlic, tomato, and coriander. Paneer is rich in calcium and supports muscle health, while the use of fresh vegetables adds fiber, antioxidants, and micronutrients. The recipe is low in saturated fat, especially when using low-fat dairy and minimal butter, making it heart-friendly. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh paneer for the best texture and flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Crush kasuri methi between your palms before adding for enhanced aroma.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust butter and cream as per health needs without compromising on taste.
Storage & Serving
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on a tawa or microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain gravy consistency.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 320.0 kcal |
