Butter chicken is a mouthwatering Indian dish you'll love! It was created in the 1950s by chef Kundan Lal Gujral in Delhi. You'll find tender chicken pieces swimming in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, flavored with aromatic spices. It's a perfect intro to Indian cuisine, with its mild yet flavorful profile. To make it, you'll marinate the chicken, grill it, and then simmer it in a velvety sauce. Serve it hot with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal. The combination of flavors will have you coming back for more. There's so much more to discover about this beloved dish!
Key Takeaways
- Butter Chicken is a popular Indian dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy tomato-based sauce.
- Created in Delhi in the 1950s, it's now a staple in Indian restaurants worldwide.
- Key ingredients include chicken, yogurt, butter, cream, tomatoes, and aromatic spices like garam masala.
- The dish is characterized by its rich, velvety texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- Typically served with naan bread or basmati rice, it's often considered a gateway to Indian cuisine.
History
Butter chicken, a beloved Indian dish, has a surprisingly recent history. You might think it's been around for centuries, but it actually dates back to the 1950s!
It all started in Delhi, India, at a restaurant called Moti Mahal. The chef there, Kundan Lal Gujral, had a clever idea to use leftover tandoori chicken. He didn't want to waste the chicken, so he created a creamy tomato sauce to simmer it in. This sauce was made with butter, cream, and a blend of spices.
The result was a rich, flavorful dish that quickly became popular. Soon, people were coming to the restaurant just to try this new creation.
As word spread, butter chicken became a hit across India and then around the world. Today, you'll find it on menus in Indian restaurants everywhere. It's even inspired similar dishes in other cuisines.
Recipe
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved Indian dish that has gained worldwide popularity for its rich, creamy texture and complex flavors. This classic curry combines tender chicken pieces with a velvety tomato-based sauce, infused with aromatic spices and finished with a generous amount of butter and cream. For those looking to replicate the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine at home, mastering the art of creating a delicious Butter Chicken is a must. In fact, it’s often recommended to start by perfecting an authentic kadai chicken recipe, a similar dish that showcases the use of freshly ground spices and rich, aromatic flavors. By honing these culinary skills, one can truly appreciate the depth and complexity of traditional Indian cooking.
Originating in Delhi, India, in the 1950s, Butter Chicken has become a staple of Indian cuisine and is often considered a gateway dish for those new to Indian flavors. While traditionally cooked in a tandoor oven, this recipe adapts the dish for home cooking, allowing you to recreate the authentic taste in your own kitchen.
- 1 kg boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons red chili powder
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 50g unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 400g canned tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt to taste
Begin by marinating the chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, and half of the spices for at least 2 hours or overnight.
In a large pan, heat oil and butter, then sauté the onions until golden. Add the remaining spices and ginger-garlic paste, cooking until fragrant. Stir in the tomato puree and simmer for 10 minutes.
Add the marinated chicken and cook until done. Finally, stir in the cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
For the best results, use bone-in chicken pieces for added flavor, though they may require longer cooking time. Adjust the spice levels to your preference, and consider serving the dish with naan bread or basmati rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
To achieve a smoother texture, blend the sauce before adding the cooked chicken. Leftover Butter Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Cooking Steps
Let's explore the cooking steps for butter chicken, starting with marinating the chicken in yogurt.
You'll then prepare a spiced tomato sauce and grill the marinated chicken pieces.
Step 1. Marinate Chicken in Yogurt
To kick off the marination process, you'll need to prepare a flavorful yogurt mixture. In a large bowl, combine plain yogurt with a blend of aromatic spices. You'll want to add garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and a pinch of salt.
Don't forget to squeeze in some fresh lemon juice for a tangy kick! Mix these ingredients well until you've got a smooth, golden-colored marinade.
Now, it's time to get your chicken ready. Cut boneless chicken pieces into bite-sized cubes. Make sure they're all about the same size so they'll cook evenly later.
Add the chicken to your yogurt mixture and give it a good stir. You'll want to coat each piece thoroughly with the marinade. Once you've done that, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you've got time, overnight is even better! This will allow the flavors to really sink in and tenderize the meat.
When you're ready to cook, take the chicken out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature before you start cooking.
Step 2. Prepare Spiced Tomato Sauce
The heart of butter chicken lies in its rich, spiced tomato sauce. To create this flavorful base, you'll need to gather some key ingredients.
Start by heating a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add a generous splash of oil and toss in some finely chopped onions. Let them sizzle and turn golden brown, stirring occasionally.
Now, it's time to add the aromatics. Crush some garlic cloves and grate fresh ginger, then add them to the pan. You'll love the smell that fills your kitchen!
Next, sprinkle in your spices: garam masala, turmeric, and a pinch of chili powder for a gentle kick. Stir everything together, letting the spices toast for a minute.
Pour in a can of crushed tomatoes and give it all a good mix. Let the sauce simmer and thicken, stirring now and then. As it cooks, the flavors will meld beautifully.
After about 15 minutes, your sauce should be rich and fragrant. If you like a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce. You're now ready for the next step in your butter chicken adventure!
Step 3. Grill Marinated Chicken Pieces
After marinating your chicken pieces, it's time to fire up the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, making sure it's nice and hot before you start cooking.
While you're waiting, take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off.
Once your grill is ready, place the chicken pieces on the grates. You'll want to hear that satisfying sizzle as they hit the hot surface. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it's golden brown and cooked through.
Don't forget to turn the pieces occasionally to ensure even cooking and those beautiful grill marks.
As you're grilling, keep an eye on the chicken to prevent burning. If you see any flare-ups, move the pieces to a cooler part of the grill. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
When the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken stays moist and flavorful.
Step 4. Simmer Sauce Until Thickened
Now it's time to turn your attention to the sauce. You'll want to pour your prepared sauce mixture into a large, deep pan. Set the heat to medium-low and let the sauce start to simmer gently. As it warms up, you'll notice the aroma of spices filling your kitchen.
Keep a close eye on the sauce as it simmers, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. You'll see it slowly start to thicken as the liquid reduces. This process usually takes about 10-15 minutes, but don't rush it. The longer it simmers, the richer and more flavorful your sauce will become.
While the sauce is simmering, you can add your grilled chicken pieces to the pan. They'll soak up all those delicious flavors as they heat through.
If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little water or chicken broth to thin it out. Once it reaches your desired consistency and the chicken is heated through, you're ready to serve your butter chicken. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon nicely when it's done.
Step 5. Combine Chicken and Sauce
With your sauce simmering and chicken grilled to perfection, it's time to bring these two components together.
Carefully transfer your grilled chicken pieces into the simmering sauce. You'll want to gently stir the chicken, making sure each piece gets coated with the creamy, flavorful sauce. As you do this, you'll notice the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen!
Let the chicken and sauce simmer together for about 5-7 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the chicken will absorb some of the sauce's richness.
Keep an eye on the heat, making sure it's not too high. You're looking for a gentle bubble, not a rapid boil.
While it's simmering, you can taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. A pinch of salt or a dash of garam masala can make a big difference.
Once you're happy with the taste and the chicken is heated through, it's ready to serve. Your homemade butter chicken will be a hit at the dinner table.
Serve it hot with some fluffy rice or warm naan bread, and enjoy your delicious creation!
Final Thoughts
Butter chicken has rightfully earned its place as a beloved dish in Indian cuisine. It's a fantastic meal that'll impress your family and friends with its rich, creamy flavors.
As you've learned, making butter chicken isn't too complicated, and you can easily whip it up at home. Remember to marinate your chicken for the best results, and don't rush the cooking process. Let those spices work their magic!
You'll find that homemade butter chicken tastes even better than takeout. Plus, you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds.
Serve it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Don't forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Now that you've mastered this classic dish, why not explore other Indian recipes? There's a whole world of flavors waiting for you to discover.
Keep practicing, and soon you'll be cooking up a storm in your kitchen. Enjoy your homemade butter chicken, and happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Butter Chicken Spicy?
You'll find butter chicken isn't typically very spicy. It's known for its rich, creamy flavor with a mild heat level. However, you can always ask for it to be made spicier if that's your preference.
Can Butter Chicken Be Made Vegetarian?
You can make a vegetarian version of this dish. Simply replace the chicken with plant-based alternatives like tofu, paneer, or vegetables. You'll still enjoy the creamy, flavorful sauce that's characteristic of the original recipe.
How Long Does Butter Chicken Last in the Refrigerator?
You'll want to consume your dish within 3-4 days when refrigerated properly. It's best to store it in an airtight container. If you've got leftovers after that time, consider freezing them for longer storage.
What's the Difference Between Butter Chicken and Tikka Masala?
You'll notice tikka masala's typically spicier and tangier, with a brighter orange color. It uses grilled chicken, while butter chicken's milder, creamier, and sweeter. Butter chicken's sauce is smoother and often includes butter or ghee.
Can Butter Chicken Be Frozen and Reheated?
You can definitely freeze and reheat butter chicken. It's a great make-ahead meal. Just store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready, thaw and reheat gently for best results.
Priya is the spice queen of Cook if Ya, specializing in vibrant Indian street food and traditional meals. Her recipes are full of bold flavors and colorful spices, bringing the excitement of Indian markets to your home kitchen. She loves to show how simple, everyday meals can be elevated with the right blend of spices.
