Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a dish with its rich, creamy tomato-based gravy and perfectly cooked chicken, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite in Indian cuisine and beyond.
What is Butter Chicken?
Butter Chicken is a popular Indian dish that originates from Delhi in the 1950s, created by chefs at the iconic Moti Mahal restaurant. It consists of tender, marinated chicken cooked in a velvety tomato-cream sauce infused with spices like garam masala, cumin, and fenugreek. Traditionally served with naan or basmati rice, it’s the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Butter Chicken
To elevate your Butter Chicken game, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Marinate Well: Use yogurt, ginger, garlic, and spices for marinating the chicken. Let it sit for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Char the Chicken: Grill or sear the chicken before adding it to the sauce. This step enhances the smoky flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes, cream, and spices make all the difference in flavor.
- Balance the Sweetness: A small amount of sugar or honey can balance the acidity of tomatoes, but don’t overdo it.
- Don’t Skip Kasuri Methi: Dried fenugreek leaves are a game-changer. Crush them between your palms and sprinkle them into the sauce for an authentic taste.
Butter Chicken Variations
Looking to customize your Butter Chicken? Here are some delicious twists:
- Paneer Makhani: Swap chicken for paneer (Indian cottage cheese) for a vegetarian option.
- Vegan Butter Chicken: Use tofu or jackfruit as a substitute for chicken, and coconut cream instead of dairy.
- Spicier Version: Amp up the chili powder or add green chilies for more heat.
- Low-Calorie Option: Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or cashew paste for a lighter sauce.
- Instant Pot Butter Chicken: Make it in a pressure cooker for a quicker version without compromising on flavor.
How to Serve Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with:
- Indian Breads: Garlic naan, tandoori roti, or parathas are perfect for scooping up the sauce.
- Rice: Steamed basmati rice or jeera rice complements the rich gravy.
- Salads: A side of cucumber and onion salad adds a refreshing crunch.
- Accompaniments: Serve with pickles, papad, and a dollop of yogurt for an authentic Indian meal.
How to Store Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken stores wonderfully, making it a great make-ahead dish.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to restore its creamy consistency.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought tomato puree?
Yes, but fresh tomato puree enhances the flavor significantly. If using canned, opt for high-quality brands with no added sugar.
2. What cut of chicken works best?
Boneless chicken thighs are ideal as they stay juicy and tender. Breasts can be used but might require careful cooking to avoid dryness.
3. Is Butter Chicken gluten-free?
Yes, the dish itself is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your accompaniments, like naan, are gluten-free if needed.
4. Can I make it without cream?
Absolutely! Substitute cream with cashew paste, almond milk, or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
5. Why does my sauce taste tangy?
This can happen if the tomatoes are too acidic. Add a pinch of sugar or honey to balance the flavors.
Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a dish with its rich, creamy tomato-based gravy and perfectly cooked chicken, it's no wonder this dish is a favorite in Indian cuisine and beyond.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lb (910 g) chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 Tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp Kashmiri chili powder
- 1 Tbsp grated garlic
- 1 Tbsp grated ginger
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 Tbsp lemon/lime juice
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp kasoori methi (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 1 Tbsp grated garlic
- 1 Tbsp grated ginger
- 1 Tbsp Kashmiri chili powder
- 2 tsp toasted ground cumin
- ½ stick (55 g) butter
- 1 Tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 Tbsp lemon/lime juice
- 1 minced green chili
- ¾ cup tomato paste
- 2 Tbsp chopped cilantro
- Optional: 1 Tbsp butter for garnish
Instructions
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl or zip-top bag. Toss chicken to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for the best flavor).
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread marinated chicken on a baking dish and roast until cooked through (20–30 minutes for boneless chicken). For charred perfection, broil for 2–4 minutes at the end.
- While the chicken cooks, melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in oil, garlic, ginger, chili powder, cumin, garam masala, and green chili.
- Sauté until aromatic (30–45 seconds). Add tomato paste and cook until it deepens in color (5–6 minutes).
- Pour in heavy cream, stir in the roasted chicken (including any juices), and season with salt and lemon juice. Simmer until the fat separates from the sauce. Garnish with cilantro and butter.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 332Total Fat 25gSaturated Fat 12gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 106mgSodium 377mgCarbohydrates 14gFiber 3gSugar 7gProtein 16g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Butter Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your table. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, this dish is sure to impress. Follow the tips, explore variations, and enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors that have made Butter Chicken a global favorite.
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