Few dishes can rival the universal appeal of Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani). Hailing from the vibrant culinary traditions of India, this creamy, spiced curry has found its way into hearts and homes worldwide. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests, Butter Chicken combines tender chicken with a rich, velvety sauce that’s nothing short of irresistible.
What is Butter Chicken?
Butter Chicken is a North Indian curry, originally created in Delhi during the 1940s by combining leftover tandoori chicken with a luscious tomato-based sauce enriched with butter and cream. The result? A harmonious blend of smokiness, tanginess, and subtle sweetness, with just the right kick of spice.
Why Butter Chicken is a Dinner Favorite
- Universal Appeal: Its mildly spiced, creamy flavor is a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
- Rich and Comforting: The buttery sauce makes every bite indulgent and satisfying.
- Versatile Pairings: Serve it with naan, rice, or even pasta for a unique twist.
- Easy to Adapt: You can adjust the spice level or make it dairy-free to suit your preferences.
Ingredients for Butter Chicken
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb (500g) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 2 cups pureed tomatoes (or canned tomato puree)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi, optional but recommended)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt to taste
How to Make Butter Chicken
1. Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, spices, salt, and lemon juice. Add the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle with a little oil.
- Sear the chicken pieces until charred on the outside but not fully cooked through (they’ll finish cooking in the sauce). Set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce
- In the same pan, heat butter and oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until golden.
- Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
- Add pureed tomatoes, chili powder, coriander, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil starts to separate from the sauce.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Add the chicken pieces and any juices back into the pan. Stir well to coat in the sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–15 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
5. Finish with Cream and Spices
- Stir in the heavy cream and crushed fenugreek leaves (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and a touch of honey or sugar, if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Basmati Rice: Fluffy, fragrant rice is the perfect accompaniment to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Naan or Paratha: Soft, pillowy bread makes scooping up every bit of the curry a joy.
- Vegetables: Serve with a side of sautéed spinach, roasted cauliflower, or cucumber salad for balance.
Tips for the Perfect Butter Chicken
- Use Fresh Spices: The aroma and flavor of fresh spices make all the difference.
- Marinate Longer: Overnight marination gives the chicken maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Balance the Creaminess: Add a little more or less cream based on your desired richness.
- Grill the Chicken: Charring the chicken adds a smoky, tandoori-like depth.
Why You’ll Love Butter Chicken
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Rich, creamy, and spiced just right.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and steps, it’s approachable for any home cook.
- Customizable: From spice levels to cream substitutes, it’s easy to make it your own.
- Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day!
Conclusion
Butter Chicken is a culinary masterpiece that brings the warmth and vibrancy of Indian cuisine to your table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying it for the first time, this dish promises a memorable dining experience with every spoonful. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and let the irresistible charm of Butter Chicken redefine your dinner routine!
