Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is one of the most beloved and well-known Indian dishes worldwide. This dish features tender pieces of chicken simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce that is infused with a blend of aromatic spices. Butter Chicken is mild yet flavorful, making it a perfect introduction to Indian cuisine for those who prefer less heat. It's a go-to comfort food, often enjoyed with rice or naan bread.
Here’s how you can make this delicious dish at home.
Ingredients:
For 4 servings, you will need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste (or 1 tablespoon each of minced garlic and ginger)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
Salt, to taste
For the Butter Chicken Sauce:
2 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon paprika (for color and mild heat)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1 cup tomato puree (or crushed tomatoes)
1/2 cup heavy cream (or 1 cup for a creamier sauce)
1/4 cup water (or chicken broth)
1 tablespoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves, optional for a traditional touch)
Salt, to taste
Fresh cilantro (coriander), chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, and salt.
Add the chicken pieces and coat them well with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides and nearly cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. They will finish cooking in the sauce.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Butter Chicken Sauce
In the same pan, melt the butter and add a little more oil to prevent it from burning.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and golden.
Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, and cayenne (if using). Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
Pour in the tomato puree and cook for 10 minutes on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and deepens in color.
Add the sugar, salt, and kasuri methi (if using), and stir to combine.
4. Finish the Dish
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of water or chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Return the browned chicken to the pan, stirring it into the sauce.
Simmer for 8-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked, tender, and coated in the creamy sauce.
5. Serve
Garnish the Butter Chicken with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
Butter Chicken is best enjoyed with:
Basmati Rice: Fluffy steamed rice helps soak up the rich sauce.
Naan Bread: Soft, buttery naan is perfect for scooping up the chicken and sauce.
Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish with cucumber and spices that complements the richness of the dish.
Pulao: Lightly spiced rice pilaf can add extra flavor to your meal.
Tips for Success:
Chicken Choice: Chicken thighs are ideal for this dish because they remain juicy and tender, but chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option.
Marination Time: For best results, marinate the chicken overnight. The yogurt and spices tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
Creamy Sauce: For a creamier dish, you can increase the amount of cream or even add a tablespoon of butter right before serving.
Balance the Flavor: The sugar in the recipe helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Taste the sauce and adjust the sweetness, salt, and spice levels to your preference.
Final Thoughts:
Indian Butter Chicken is a delectable blend of creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. Its rich tomato sauce, combined with tender, marinated chicken, makes it a favorite among both kids and adults. This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave a comforting meal. Serve it with rice or naan for a satisfying meal that will bring the taste of Indian cuisine right to your table. Enjoy!
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