Butter Chicken Recipe: Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is one of the most beloved dishes in Indian cuisine. With its rich, creamy, and slightly tangy tomato-based sauce, this dish has won hearts all over the world. It is flavorful yet not overwhelmingly spicy, making it an excellent option for those new to Indian food.
The dish originated in Delhi, where chefs at Moti Mahal restaurant stumbled upon a clever way to use leftover tandoori chicken by simmering it in a buttery tomato gravy. From that accidental innovation, butter chicken became an international favorite. But how do you make it at home with restaurant-quality flavor? Follow this detailed guide to find out!
Ingredients Needed for Butter Chicken
Chicken Marinade Ingredients
- 500g boneless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- Salt to taste
Gravy or Sauce Ingredients
- 3 large tomatoes, pureed
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup fresh cream
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- Salt to taste
Tools and Equipment Required
- Mixing bowls
- Non-stick pan or skillet
- Blender or immersion blender
- Spatula and ladle
- Knife and cutting board
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Marinade
Start by marinating the chicken. In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and all the spices. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Marinate for at least 2-4 hours, but for best results, leave it overnight in the refrigerator. The yogurt helps tenderize the chicken, ensuring it stays juicy even after cooking.
Step 2: Cooking the Marinated Chicken
Once the marinating time is up, cook the chicken. You can either grill it on high heat for a slightly smoky flavor or cook it on a stovetop using a non-stick pan. Sear the chicken on all sides until it’s lightly charred and cooked through. Set it aside to be added to the sauce later.
Step 3: Preparing the Butter Chicken Sauce (Gravy)
In a large pan, melt butter along with a bit of oil to prevent burning. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then sauté the chopped onions until golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and stir for a minute until aromatic. Now, add the tomato puree, coriander powder, garam masala, and chili powder. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Blending the Sauce for a Smooth Texture
For a restaurant-quality finish, blend the sauce using an immersion blender or transfer it to a regular blender. This step ensures a velvety-smooth texture. Once blended, return the sauce to the pan.
Step 5: Simmering the Chicken in the Sauce
Add the cooked chicken to the sauce and let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Add honey or sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Finally, stir in the fresh cream for that signature creamy texture.
Alternative Ingredients and Substitutes
- Vegetarian Option: Use paneer (Indian cottage cheese) instead of chicken.
- Vegan Option: Replace cream with coconut milk and butter with plant-based margarine.
- Healthier Choice: Opt for grilled chicken breasts for a lower-fat version.
Serving Suggestions for Butter Chicken
Butter chicken pairs perfectly with fragrant basmati rice or soft, warm naan bread. You could also serve it with parathas or even plain roti for a lighter meal.
Garnishing Tips for the Perfect Presentation
Top the butter chicken with a drizzle of cream and a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro. For an extra touch, you can add a small dollop of butter on top just before serving.
Tips and Tricks for Making the Perfect Butter Chicken
- Use boneless chicken thighs for juicier results.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the chili powder.
- Always blend the sauce for that smooth, restaurant-like finish.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or milk.
Storing and Reheating Butter Chicken
Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use low heat to prevent the sauce from splitting. You can add a bit of cream or water while reheating to restore the consistency.
Nutritional Value of Butter Chicken
A typical serving of butter chicken provides approximately:
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
These values can vary depending on the ingredients used and portion sizes.
FAQs about Butter Chicken Recipe
What ingredients are needed for butter chicken?
Butter chicken typically requires chicken (thighs or breasts), butter, cream, tomatoes (fresh or canned), garlic, ginger, and a variety of spices like garam masala, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Some recipes also include onion, sugar, and fenugreek leaves for added flavor.
How long does it take to make butter chicken?
The total time to make butter chicken can vary, but it generally takes about 45 minutes to an hour. This includes marinating the chicken, preparing the sauce, and cooking everything together until the chicken is tender and the flavors are well-blended.
Can I make butter chicken without cream?
Yes, you can substitute cream with coconut milk or yogurt to create a lighter version of butter chicken. These alternatives still provide a creamy texture but with a different flavor profile and less fat.
Is butter chicken spicy?
Butter chicken is generally mild, focusing more on aromatic spices than heat. However, you can adjust the spiciness to your taste by adding more or less chili powder or fresh chilies.
What is the best way to serve butter chicken?
Butter chicken is best served with basmati rice or naan bread to help soak up the rich, creamy sauce. Adding a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables can balance the richness of the dish.
Can butter chicken be made ahead of time?
Yes, butter chicken even tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Simply refrigerate the dish in an airtight container and gently reheat it before serving. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Conclusion
Butter chicken is a fantastic dish that brings the flavors of India into your home. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this step-by-step guide ensures you achieve restaurant-quality results every time. Give it a try and let your kitchen fill with the mouth-watering aroma of spices and butter!
References
For those eager to dive deeper into the art of making butter chicken, or to validate the information provided in our Butter Chicken Recipe, here are several reputable sources you might find useful:
- Food Network: Offers a comprehensive guide and expert tips on cooking butter chicken, perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Visit Food Network’s Butter Chicken Guide
- BBC Good Food: Provides a range of butter chicken recipes including traditional and quick versions, along with user reviews to help you choose the best. Explore BBC Good Food Recipes
- AllRecipes: Features user-generated recipes and feedback on various methods of preparing butter chicken, giving you real insights from other home cooks. Check out Recipes on AllRecipes
- Serious Eats: Delivers in-depth culinary science and techniques behind the perfect butter chicken, ideal for those looking to understand the finer details of the dish. Learn from Serious Eats
These sources are trusted in the culinary world and provide a wealth of information for both novice and expert chefs looking to perfect their butter chicken recipes.
