Butter Chicken Recipe

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a dish that resonates with the heart and soul of Indian cuisine. Its rich, creamy, and flavorful profile has made it a favorite not just in India but worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, making Butter Chicken at home is an achievable and rewarding experience. Let’s dive into this classic recipe that brings restaurant-quality Butter Chicken to your dining table.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 large tomatoes, pureed
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, cumin, and salt.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken thoroughly.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spread the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Alternatively, you can grill the chicken pieces on a grill pan until they are charred and cooked.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a large pan, heat the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the tomato puree, turmeric, chili powder, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Cook the mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil begins to separate from the tomato mixture.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and mix well. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes.
6. Season with sugar (if using) and salt to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

1. Add the cooked chicken pieces to the sauce.
2. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with:

• Naan: Soft, pillowy Indian bread that’s perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Basmati Rice: Fragrant and fluffy rice that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish that balances the heat of the curry.

Tips for the Perfect Butter Chicken

• Marination: Marinating the chicken for a longer time ensures tender and flavorful meat.
• Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes or good-quality canned tomatoes enhance the sauce’s depth.
• Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or half-and-half.

Conclusion

Butter Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings the warmth and richness of Indian cuisine to your home. With its perfect balance of spices and creamy texture, it’s a surefire way to impress your family and friends. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to create this delectable classic. Happy cooking!