Butter Chicken Recipe: Delicious and Creamy Indian Dish

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History

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved Indian dish that has gained international recognition for its rich flavors and velvety texture. The origins of this delectable recipe can be traced back to the vibrant city of Delhi in the 1950s.

The story begins at the renowned Moti Mahal restaurant, a popular establishment known for its Mughlai cuisine. It was here that Butter Chicken was born, thanks to the culinary genius of the restaurant’s founders.

Legend has it that one evening, a chef named Kundan Lal Gujral was faced with a predicament. As leftovers from the tandoori chicken, a signature dish of Moti Mahal, started to accumulate, he sought a way to transform them into a new creation. Inspired by his innovative spirit, Gujral decided to experiment with these tandoori chicken pieces.

To enhance the flavor and texture, Gujral devised a tomato-based gravy infused with aromatic spices and rich cream. He simmered the chicken in this luscious sauce, allowing it to absorb the exquisite flavors. As a final touch, a generous amount of butter was added, giving the dish its distinct richness and velvety consistency.

When the first bite was savored, a burst of flavors danced on the palate. The succulent and smoky tandoori chicken married perfectly with the creamy and mildly spiced tomato sauce. The dish was an instant hit, captivating the taste buds of the diners and quickly becoming a staple at Moti Mahal.

Butter Chicken soon gained popularity beyond the walls of the restaurant. Word of this culinary masterpiece spread throughout Delhi, attracting locals and visitors alike. Its fame continued to grow, reaching far beyond the city’s borders, and soon Butter Chicken became synonymous with North Indian cuisine.

Today, Butter Chicken is a beloved dish not only in India but also in Indian restaurants around the world. Its irresistible combination of tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and aromatic spices has won the hearts of food enthusiasts globally. Whether enjoyed with traditional Indian bread like naan or paired with fragrant rice, Butter Chicken continues to be a culinary delight that showcases the rich culinary heritage of India.

As time has passed, variations of Butter Chicken have emerged, with each chef and home cook adding their own unique twist to the recipe. However, the essence of this beloved dish remains unchanged—a harmonious blend of flavors and a testament to the creativity and innovation of Indian cuisine.

So, the next time you savor the delightful flavors of Butter Chicken, remember its humble beginnings in the kitchen of Moti Mahal and the chef who dared to transform leftovers into a culinary masterpiece.

Time

Please note that the cooking and preparation time mentioned above are approximate and may vary depending on individual cooking methods and experience. It’s always advisable to follow the recipe instructions and adjust the time as needed to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly and the flavors are well developed.

Ingredients

Please note that the ingredient quantities mentioned above are for a 2-person serving of the Butter Chicken recipe. Adjust the quantities accordingly if you are serving more or fewer people.

Directions

1. Marinating the Chicken

• In a bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt.
• Add the boneless chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well, ensuring each piece is coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for maximum flavor absorption.

2. Preparing the Sauce

• Heat butter and oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
• Stir in the pureed tomatoes and cook for a few minutes until the oil separates from the mixture.
• Add the kasuri methi (fenugreek) and mix well.
• Reduce the heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.

3. Cooking the Chicken

• Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
• Cook the marinated chicken pieces until they are slightly charred and cooked through. Set them aside.

4. Finishing Touches

• Add the cooked chicken pieces to the prepared sauce and mix gently, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
• Let the dish simmer for a few minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
• Serve the Butter Chicken with naan, roti, or steamed rice for a delightful meal.

Enjoy the tantalizing flavors of homemade Butter Chicken with its creamy sauce and succulent chicken pieces. Remember to adjust the spice levels and cooking times to suit your personal preferences. Bon appétit!

Equipment Required

Nutrition Information

Please note that the nutrition information provided above is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and cooking methods. It’s always a good idea to refer to specific product labels or consult with a healthcare professional for accurate nutritional information based on your dietary needs and specific ingredients used in the recipe.

Tips

• Tenderizing the Chicken: For an extra tender result, you can add a tablespoon of plain yogurt or a teaspoon of meat tenderizer powder to the marinade. This will help break down the proteins in the chicken and make it more tender.
• Adjusting the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of red chili powder or omit it altogether. Conversely, if you enjoy a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of red chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Charcoal Smoky Flavor: To infuse a smoky flavor into the chicken, you can use a charcoal grill instead of a regular grill pan or skillet. Simply heat a piece of charcoal until it turns red-hot, place it in a small heatproof bowl or foil tray, and carefully place the bowl/tray on top of the cooked chicken. Drizzle a little bit of oil over the charcoal and cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the smoky flavors to penetrate the chicken.
• Creamy Texture: If you prefer a creamier texture, you can increase the amount of heavy cream or add a dollop of unsalted butter to the sauce at the end.

Pros & Cons

Conclusion

In conclusion, Butter Chicken is a tantalizing Indian dish that combines succulent chicken pieces with a creamy tomato-based sauce. Its rich and flavorful profile has made it a beloved favorite around the world. The tender and charred chicken, bathed in the luscious sauce, creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more.

While Butter Chicken may require some time and effort to prepare, the end result is well worth it. The combination of aromatic spices, creamy texture, and the warmth of Indian flavors makes it a truly satisfying meal. Plus, its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress. The bold and inviting flavors will transport you to the vibrant streets of India, where the aroma of spices fills the air.

So, why not embark on a culinary adventure and try your hand at making Butter Chicken? Gather the ingredients, follow the step-by-step instructions, and allow yourself to indulge in the joy of cooking. You’ll be rewarded with a mouthwatering dish that will delight your senses and create unforgettable memories.

Don’t miss out on experiencing this classic Indian delicacy. Treat yourself, your family, and your friends to a taste of Butter Chicken, and let the flavors transport you to a world of culinary delight.

FAQ’s