Indian butter chicken is the rich, creamy dish that'll transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Delhi, delivering an unparalleled flavor explosion that's sure to spice up your dinner. Created in the 1950s, this beloved recipe features tender chicken simmered in a silky, spiced tomato-butter sauce – it's a melding of fragrant spices, velvety texture, and a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess that engages your taste buds in a harmonious blend. Eager to discover the secrets behind this Indian masterpiece and how to make it at home?
Key Takeaways
- Authentic Indian butter chicken recipe featuring tender chicken in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices.
- Highlighted by a marination process that tenderizes the chicken and enhances flavor, resulting in a velvety texture.
- Versatile dish that can be served with basmati rice or traditional Indian breads like naan, offering a satisfying dining experience.
- Vibrant orange-red hue and fragrant aroma make this dish a visual and olfactory delight, perfect for impressing guests.
- Represents the diverse culinary traditions of India, showcasing the harmonious blend of sweetness, tanginess, and spices in every bite.
History
Butter chicken, or murgh makhani, is a beloved Indian dish with a rich and storied history. Originating in the 1950s in Delhi, this iconic recipe was created by Kundan Lal Gujral, the founder of the Moti Mahal restaurant. Gujral wanted to find a way to use up leftover tandoori chicken, leading him to smother the tender meat in a silky, spiced tomato-butter sauce. The result was an instant hit, captivating diners with its perfect balance of savory, creamy, and aromatic flavors.
Over the decades, butter chicken has become a staple of Indian cuisine, spreading across the country and eventually the world. Today, it remains one of the most popular and beloved Indian dishes, enjoyed for its comforting yet complex taste.
The rich sauce, infused with warming spices like cardamom and cumin, envelops juicy chicken in a velvety embrace, creating a truly irresistible meal. Whether served with fluffy basmati rice or naan bread, butter chicken is a true culinary delight that continues to enchant and satisfy diners everywhere.
Recipe
Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a beloved Indian dish that combines succulent chicken in a rich, creamy, and flavorful sauce. This iconic dish originated in the 1950s in New Delhi and has since become a global favorite.
The key to a delicious butter chicken lies in the careful balance of spices and the slow simmering of the sauce, which allows the flavors to meld together harmoniously. The result is a dish that's both comforting and indulgent, making it the perfect choice for a family gathering or a special occasion.
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 cup (240 ml) tomato puree
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) ghee (clarified butter) or unsalted butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) garam masala
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped cilantro, for garnish
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the ghee or butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Pour in the tomato puree, heavy cream, and all the spices (cumin, coriander, cayenne, paprika, and garam masala). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
To achieve the best results, it's important to use high-quality ingredients and to let the sauce simmer slowly to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Serve the butter chicken hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, and accompany it with basmati rice or naan bread for a complete and authentic Indian meal.
Cooking Steps
First, you'll need to marinate the chicken in a tangy yogurt mixture seasoned with aromatic spices.
Next, sauté some onions and ginger-garlic paste to build the flavor base.
Then, add a rich tomato puree and simmer it all together with a touch of cream for a creamy, indulgent sauce.
Step 1. Marinate Chicken in Yogurt, Spices
Juicy chicken pieces await their transformation in the aromatic marinade.
In a large bowl, combine tangy yogurt, fragrant garlic, and a flavorful blend of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Stir everything together until the chicken is fully coated, ensuring each piece is evenly seasoned.
Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours if time allows. This process allows the spices to permeate the meat, infusing it with a depth of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
As the chicken marinates, the yogurt tenderizes the meat, resulting in a juicy, tender texture that will melt in your mouth.
When you're ready to cook, the chicken will be perfectly seasoned and primed for the next step in this mouthwatering butter chicken adventure.
Step 2. Sauté Onions and Ginger-Garlic Paste
With the chicken now marinated to perfection, it's time to start cooking. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a generous amount of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onions and sauté them until they're soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Next, toss in the minced ginger and garlic. The aroma from these aromatic ingredients will immediately fill your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation. Sauté the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The onions should be lightly golden, and the ginger and garlic should be fragrant and slightly softened.
This flavorful base of onions, ginger, and garlic is the foundation for the rich, creamy butter chicken sauce that's to come. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, as these bits of flavor will add depth and complexity to the final dish.
Step 3. Add Tomato Puree
Next, add the tomato puree to the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. This vibrant red sauce will infuse the dish with a bold, tomatoey flavor that perfectly complements the rich, creamy butter chicken.
Grab your whisk and give the mixture a good stir, ensuring the tomato puree is fully incorporated. You'll notice the color of the sauce deepen and become more vibrant as the tomato puree cooks down.
The tomato puree will also help thicken the sauce, creating a luxurious, velvety texture that coats the chicken beautifully.
As the flavors meld together, your kitchen will be filled with the enticing aroma of simmering spices and tangy tomatoes. This step is crucial for building the complex, layered flavors that make butter chicken so irresistible.
Keep stirring occasionally until the sauce has reached your desired consistency, then move on to the next step – adding the chicken and cream.
Step 4. Add Cream and Simmer
After the tomato puree has been incorporated, you'll want to stir in the heavy cream. This will create a luxuriously creamy texture that's essential for authentic butter chicken. Slowly pour in the cream, whisking constantly to ensure it blends seamlessly into the simmering sauce.
You'll notice the color shifting to a rich, orangey-red hue as the cream mellows the tanginess of the tomatoes.
Now, let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld and intensify.
Be patient – this slow cooking process is what'll transform the sauce into that signature velvety smoothness. Periodically taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more spices or a touch of sugar to balance the flavors.
The end result should be an incredibly indulgent, aromatic sauce that coats the chicken in decadence.
Step 5. Stir in Garnishes and Serve Hot
Garnished with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, the rich, creamy butter chicken is now ready to serve. The vibrant green herbs and bright citrus notes will brighten up the dish, perfectly complementing the deep, savory flavors.
Go ahead and spoon the saucy chicken over fluffy basmati rice or naan bread, allowing the aromatic sauce to soak in. Don't forget to offer wedges of lemon on the side, so your guests can add an extra zing of acidity to their meal.
The velvety texture and bold spices make this butter chicken an absolute delight. Take a moment to admire the shimmering orange-red hue before taking that first bite. Savor the way the tender chicken and creamy sauce melt together, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance.
Serve this Indian masterpiece hot and watch it disappear in no time!
Final Thoughts
Having enjoyed the rich and flavorful dish, you can now confidently say that this Indian Butter Chicken recipe is a true delight. The fragrant spices, the velvety texture, and the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess have left your taste buds thoroughly satisfied.
This dish isn't only a treat for your senses but also a testament to the vibrant and diverse culinary traditions of India.
As you savor the last bites, you can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Mastering this recipe has opened up a whole new world of flavors, and you're eager to experiment with more authentic Indian dishes in the future.
The key lies in embracing the unique blend of spices and techniques that make Indian cuisine so captivating.
Reflecting on your culinary journey, you realize that this butter chicken dish hasn't only nourished your body but also your appreciation for the rich cultural heritage it represents.
With each bite, you've been transported to the bustling streets of India, where the aroma of spices and the sizzle of cooking pans create a symphony of flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Butter Chicken a Traditional Indian Dish?
Yes, butter chicken is a traditional Indian dish. It's a creamy, tomato-based curry that originated in northern India and has become a popular dish around the world. It's a comforting and flavorful meal you'll love.
How Can I Make Butter Chicken Less Spicy?
To make butter chicken less spicy, reduce the amount of chili powder or cayenne pepper used. You can also add more tomatoes or cream to the dish to balance out the heat.
Can I Make Butter Chicken in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make butter chicken in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method ensures the flavors meld together perfectly.
How Long Does Leftover Butter Chicken Last?
Leftover butter chicken can last 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Keep it in an airtight container, and you can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you're ready to enjoy it again.
What Sides Go Well With Butter Chicken?
Butter chicken pairs perfectly with naan, basmati rice, or a fresh salad. Try serving it with roasted vegetables or lentil dahl for a heartier meal. The creamy sauce complements a variety of sides, so feel free to experiment.
Sunny’s articles radiate enthusiasm, much like her sunny disposition. As our resident “Butter Geek”, she delves deep into the latest butter trends, ensuring our readers are always in the know. Beyond her writing, Sunny’s passion lies in exploring vegan butter alternatives and hosting butter-tasting soirées.
