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!
Butter Chicken Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Creamy Perfection
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!
Butter Chicken Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Creamy Perfection
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!
