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Butter Chicken Recipe





Authentic Butter Chicken Recipe

Description

Create an authentic Butter Chicken Recipe with our detailed recipe. Enjoy rich, creamy flavors and tender chicken in a tomato-based sauce. Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved dish originating from the Indian subcontinent. This rich and creamy dish features tender pieces of chicken cooked in a velvety tomato-based sauce, infused with aromatic spices and enriched with butter and cream. Its perfect balance of flavors and luxurious texture make it a favorite in Indian cuisine.

Ingredients – Butter Chicken Recipe

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 1 1/2 pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Butter Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. Prepare the Marinade:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ground turmeric, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, chili powder, salt, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken:
    • Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
  2. Bake the Chicken:
    • Spread the marinated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Sauté the Aromatics:
    • In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add the Spices:
    • Stir in the ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
  3. Incorporate the Tomato Puree:
    • Pour in the tomato puree and cook the mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the oil starts to separate from the tomato base.
  4. Finish the Sauce:
    • Add the heavy cream and water to the pan, stirring to combine. Season with salt to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another 5-10 minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

  1. Add the Chicken:
    • Add the baked chicken pieces to the sauce, stirring to coat them thoroughly. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  2. Garnish and Serve:
    • Garnish the Butter Chicken with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti.

Tips and Variations for Butter Chicken Recipe

Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken

  • Marination Time:
    • Marinate the chicken for at least an hour to ensure maximum flavor absorption. Overnight marination yields the best results.
  • Balanced Spices:
    • Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your heat preference. Butter Chicken should have a mild heat to complement its creamy richness.
  • Creaminess:
    • For a richer sauce, you can add a bit more butter and cream. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.

Variations of Butter Chicken

  • Vegetarian Version:
    • Replace the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
  • Spicy Butter Chicken:
    • Increase the amount of chili powder and add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
  • Healthier Option:
    • Use Greek yogurt in the marinade and substitute coconut milk for heavy cream to create a healthier, dairy-free version.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Marination Time: 1 hour (minimum)
  • Cooking Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours (including marination)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 600mg

Curiosities and Historical Facts about Butter Chicken Recipe

Origins of Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, was invented in the 1950s by Kundan Lal Gujral, the owner of Moti Mahal, a famous restaurant in Delhi, India. The dish was created as a way to use leftover tandoori chicken by cooking it in a rich tomato-based sauce, thus giving birth to the now-iconic Butter Chicken.

Cultural Significance

Butter Chicken holds a special place in Indian cuisine and is celebrated for its rich, comforting flavors. It has become a staple in Indian restaurants worldwide, often serving as an introduction to Indian food for many. The dish’s popularity has also led to numerous variations and adaptations in different countries, making it a global favorite.

Fun Facts

  • Accidental Invention:
    • Butter Chicken was created by accident when leftover tandoori chicken was mixed with a creamy tomato sauce to avoid food waste.
  • Global Popularity:
    • It is one of the most popular Indian dishes globally and can be found on the menu of almost every Indian restaurant.
  • Versatility:
    • Butter Chicken is versatile and can be served with various sides such as rice, naan, or even pasta in fusion recipes.

Serving and Pairing Ideas – Butter Chicken Recipe

Pairing with Other Dishes

  • Basmati Rice:
    • Serve Butter Chicken with steamed basmati rice for a traditional pairing.
  • Naan:
    • Pair with warm, fluffy naan or garlic naan to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Vegetable Sides:
    • Complement the rich flavors with a side of sautéed spinach, roasted vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad.

Beverage Pairings

  • Wine:
    • A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir pairs well with Butter Chicken.
  • Beer:
    • An Indian lager or a light, hoppy beer complements the dish’s richness.
  • Lassi:
    • For a traditional touch, serve with a refreshing mango or salted lassi.

Creative Serving Ideas

  • Butter Chicken Tacos:
    • Use Butter Chicken as a filling for soft tacos, topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
  • Butter Chicken Pizza:
    • Spread the sauce and chicken over a pizza crust, add mozzarella cheese, and bake for a fusion twist.
  • Butter Chicken Wraps:
    • Roll Butter Chicken in a flatbread with fresh vegetables for a portable meal.

Storing and Reheating

Storing

  • Refrigeration:
    • Store leftover Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing:
    • Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

  • Stovetop:
    • Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
  • Microwave:
    • Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Advanced Techniques and Equipment – Butter Chicken Recipe

Essential Tools

  • Heavy-bottomed Pan:
    • Use a heavy-bottomed pan or skillet to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
  • Whisk:
    • A whisk is helpful for mixing the marinade and the sauce to achieve a smooth consistency.
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups:
    • Accurate measurements are essential for balancing the spices.

Advanced Techniques

  • Homemade Garam Masala:
    • For a more authentic flavor, make your own garam masala by toasting and grinding whole spices such as cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves.
  • Smoking Technique:
    • To add a smoky flavor, place a piece of hot charcoal in a small bowl, set it in the center of the cooked Butter Chicken, and drizzle with a little oil. Cover the pan with a lid for a few minutes to infuse the smoky aroma.

Fun and Creative Ideas

  • Butter Chicken Sliders:
    • Serve Butter Chicken on small slider buns for a fun party appetizer.
  • Butter Chicken Lasagna:
    • Layer Butter Chicken with lasagna noodles and béchamel sauce for an Indian-inspired lasagna.
  • Butter Chicken Stuffed Peppers:
    • Fill bell peppers with Butter Chicken and bake until the peppers are tender for a colorful, flavorful dish.