Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: How to Make This Classic Dish at Home

Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is one of the most beloved dishes in Indian cuisine. Its rich and creamy tomato-based sauce, combined with tender marinated chicken, creates an unforgettable flavor experience that has captured the hearts of food lovers around the world. This article will guide you through making authentic Indian butter chicken right at home, so you can enjoy this classic dish with family and friends.

Ingredients

To make a delicious Indian butter chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 500g boneless chicken (thighs or breasts)
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 cups pureed tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Tips for Selecting the Best Ingredients

• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result, or chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• Yogurt: Choose plain, unsweetened yogurt for marinating.
• Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes if using fresh, or high-quality canned tomatoes for the puree.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and ginger-garlic paste. Mix well.
2. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the pureed tomatoes, sugar, garam masala, and cumin. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and oil starts to separate from the mixture.

Cooking Instructions

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. In a separate pan, add the marinated chicken (discard any excess marinade) and cook on medium heat until it is cooked through and slightly charred. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
2. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to the tomato sauce.

Step 4: Finalize the Dish

1. Stir in the heavy cream and remaining tablespoon of butter, mixing until well combined.
2. Allow the butter chicken to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

Indian butter chicken is best served hot with:

• Naan or Roti: Perfect for scooping up the rich sauce.
• Basmati Rice: Fluffy rice pairs wonderfully with the creamy dish.
• Cucumber Raita: A cooling side to balance the spices.

Ideas for Garnishing

• Fresh cilantro leaves
• A swirl of cream
• A sprinkle of crushed kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

Variations of Butter Chicken

Feel free to experiment with your butter chicken by trying these variations:

• Vegan Butter Chicken: Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free and serve with gluten-free naan or rice.

Conclusion

Now that you have the step-by-step recipe for making authentic Indian butter chicken, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner.

For more delicious recipes like this, visit Indian Food Guide and explore the diverse world of Indian cuisine.