Introduction: Why Butter Chicken is a Winner
Butter chicken, or “Murgh Makhani,” is a beloved dish that hails from the Indian subcontinent. It’s a creamy, tomato-based curry featuring tender pieces of marinated chicken, and it’s a winner for so many reasons! The rich flavors, the fragrant spices, and the velvety texture come together to create an irresistible meal that’s perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or new to Indian cuisine, butter chicken is a dish that never disappoints. Paired with rice or naan, it’s comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients: Your Shopping List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious butter chicken:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- Chicken: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (thighs are juicier)
- Yogurt: 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- Ginger-Garlic Paste: 2 tablespoons (or 1 tablespoon minced ginger and 1 tablespoon minced garlic)
- Garam Masala: 1 tablespoon
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric: 1 teaspoon
- Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
For the Curry:
- Butter: 4 tablespoons (unsalted)
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Tomatoes: 3 cups, pureed (about 4 medium tomatoes)
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Cilantro: Fresh, for garnish
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon (to balance acidity)
- Additional Spices: 1 teaspoon coriander powder, 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek leaves (optional)
Preparation Steps: Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s break this down so you’re fully prepared:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Prepare the Tomatoes: If you’re using fresh tomatoes, blend them into a smooth puree. Set aside.
- Chop the Onion: Finely chop the onion and set aside for cooking.
Cooking Instructions: Bringing It All Together
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the marinated chicken (discarding excess marinade) and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add Tomato Puree: Stir in the pureed tomatoes and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken. You want to cook off the raw tomato taste.
- Season the Sauce: Add the coriander powder, fenugreek leaves (if using), sugar, and season with salt to taste. Stir to combine.
- Incorporate the Cream: Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream, creating a rich, creamy sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce, stirring to coat the pieces well. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy
- Serve Hot: Ladle the butter chicken into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Accompaniments: Serve with basmati rice, naan, or parathas to soak up that luscious sauce.
- Add a Side: Pair with a crisp salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Additional Tips: Level Up Your Butter Chicken
- Flavor Boosters: For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of lemon juice just before serving.
- Dietary Adaptations: To make it dairy-free, substitute coconut milk for the heavy cream. Use firm tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.
- Make It Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it in advance. Just reheat gently before serving.
Wrap-Up: A Flavorful Journey
Now you have everything you need to make an incredible butter chicken that’ll impress your family and friends! This dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures—creamy, spicy, and utterly satisfying. Fun fact: Butter chicken was accidentally created in the 1950s at the Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi, where leftover chicken was cooked with tomatoes, butter, and cream. It quickly became a beloved staple of Indian cuisine! So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this culinary adventure. Enjoy every delicious bite!
