Introduction

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a rich and creamy dish that originated in India. It is one of the most beloved and popular Indian dishes worldwide, characterized by its flavorful tomato-based gravy and tender, marinated chicken. This dish is a perfect balance of spices, creaminess, and butter, making it a favorite for food lovers everywhere.

History

Butter Chicken was first created in the 1950s by Kundan Lal Gujral, the founder of the famous Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi, India. The dish was made by combining leftover tandoori chicken with a creamy tomato sauce, which resulted in a flavorful and rich curry. Over the years, Butter Chicken has gained international fame and has been adapted in various ways across different cultures.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 500g (1 lb) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste

For the Butter Chicken Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil (optional)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 large tomatoes, pureed (or 1 cup tomato puree)
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and all the spices for the marinade.
2. Coat the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Sear the chicken: Heat a little oil or butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken pieces until they are browned on all sides, but don’t worry if they aren’t fully cooked inside. Set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Butter Chicken Sauce

1. Cook the onions: In the same pan, add butter and a bit of oil. Sauté the chopped onions until they turn golden brown.
2. Add ginger-garlic paste: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant.
3. Tomato puree: Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the tomato mixture (about 10 minutes).
4. Spice it up: Add cumin, coriander, red chili powder, and garam masala. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Simmer with cream: Lower the heat, add the cream, and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes. Add a teaspoon of sugar if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
6. Add the chicken: Add the seared chicken pieces to the sauce and let them cook for another 10 minutes, until fully cooked.

Nutritional Benefits

Butter Chicken is a high-protein dish that provides essential nutrients. It contains vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, iron, and calcium. The use of spices like turmeric and cumin also offers anti-inflammatory benefits. However, due to its creamy and buttery nature, it is recommended to consume it in moderation.

Lovers of Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is loved by people of all ages, especially those who enjoy rich, flavorful curries. It is a favorite dish in Indian restaurants worldwide and is commonly enjoyed with naan, basmati rice, or roti. Many chefs and home cooks love experimenting with different versions of Butter Chicken, making it a versatile and cherished dish.

Conclusion

Butter Chicken is an iconic dish that has won hearts across the globe. Its creamy texture, rich flavors, and perfect blend of spices make it a delightful meal for any occasion. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe allows you to bring the magic of Indian cuisine to your home. Serve it with warm naan or rice, and enjoy a truly delicious experience!