Butter Chicken

July 22, 2024
2:23 pm

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a rich and creamy Indian curry that is beloved for its velvety texture and delicious flavor. This dish features marinated chicken cooked in a luscious tomato-based sauce, infused with aromatic spices and enriched with butter and cream. Butter Chicken is a quintessential Indian dish that has gained immense popularity worldwide, thanks to its comforting and indulgent taste.

The origins of Butter Chicken trace back to Delhi, where it was created by chefs at the Moti Mahal restaurant. The dish quickly became a favorite, and its appeal has only grown over the years. Butter Chicken is typically served with naan or rice, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Its mild yet flavorful profile makes it accessible to a wide range of palates, making it a great introduction to Indian cuisine.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) tomato sauce
1/2 cup heavy cream
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, paprika, ground turmeric, ground coriander, garam masala, and salt. Add the chicken chunks and mix well to coat. Marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until fully cooked and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown. Add garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute. Add tomato sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Combine and Serve: Add the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.