Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved Indian dish that has gained worldwide popularity for its creamy texture and rich, flavorful sauce. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or just looking to try something new, this recipe is a perfect choice for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
In this article, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step process to make the perfect butter chicken at home. From marinating the chicken in aromatic spices to crafting the velvety tomato-based gravy, you’ll discover how to recreate this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen.
Ready to indulge in a dish that’s both decadent and delicious? Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before starting, gather these essential ingredients for your butter chicken:
For the Marinade:
- 500g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
For the Gravy:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 3 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup water (optional, for adjusting consistency)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, and the spices for the marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavors).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Lightly grease with butter or oil.
- Cook the marinated chicken pieces until they are seared on the outside and almost cooked through. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Butter Chicken Gravy
- In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Then, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger, garlic, cumin, and coriander. Cook until fragrant.
- Add the tomato puree and chili powder, stirring well. Let it simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and the oil separates from the mixture.
Step 4: Combine Chicken with the Gravy
- Add the cooked chicken to the gravy and stir to coat evenly.
- Pour in the cream and mix well. If the sauce is too thick, add water to adjust consistency.
- Let it simmer for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Pair your butter chicken with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Butter Chicken
- Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the depth of flavor.
- Marinate longer: If time permits, marinate the chicken overnight for the best results.
- Adjust spice levels: Customize the chili powder based on your heat preference. With this recipe, you can enjoy the authentic taste of butter chicken right at home. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you’re simply craving something indulgent!
With this recipe, you can enjoy the authentic taste of butter chicken right at home. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you’re simply craving something indulgent!
