Why Choose Butter Chicken?
- Rich and Creamy: The sauce’s velvety texture is unparalleled.
- Versatile: Pairs wonderfully with naan, rice, or even parathas.
- Easy to Prepare: Despite its gourmet appeal, this dish is surprisingly simple to make at home.
- Universal Appeal: Loved by both kids and adults, making it ideal for family meals.
Ingredients for Butter Chicken
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb (500g) boneless chicken (preferably thighs or breasts)
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp oil
- 2 medium onions (finely chopped)
- 3 large tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp garam masala
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, lemon juice, and salt.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best results).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Grill or Sear:
- Heat oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the marinated chicken until slightly charred and cooked through. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- Sauté Onions:
- Heat butter and oil in a deep pan.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes:
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until fragrant.
- Add red chili powder, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Mix well.
- Pour in the tomato puree and tomato paste. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
- Simmer:
- Add sugar and salt to balance the flavors.
- Slowly stir in the heavy cream, ensuring the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine and Garnish
- Add Chicken to the Sauce:
- Add the cooked chicken to the simmering sauce.
- Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top before serving.
Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and cream enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the chili powder to suit your spice tolerance.
- Char for Authenticity: Slightly charring the chicken adds a smoky flavor reminiscent of tandoori cooking.
- Make Ahead: The sauce tastes even better the next day, so consider preparing it in advance.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Butter Chicken with:
- Butter Naan: Soft and buttery Indian flatbread.
- Steamed Basmati Rice: The perfect accompaniment to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Jeera Rice: Fragrant cumin-flavored rice for added aroma.
Conclusion
Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary experience. With its creamy texture and robust flavors, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this authentic Butter Chicken recipe promises to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.