Creamy Indian Butter Chicken

Introduction

Creamy Indian Butter Chicken, also known as “Murgh Makhani”, is one of the most beloved Indian dishes worldwide. With its rich, velvety tomato-based sauce, aromatic spices, and tender marinated chicken, this dish is a celebration of flavor. Whether you’re a spice lover or new to Indian cuisine, butter chicken offers a perfect balance of warmth, creaminess, and depth.

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1½ teaspoons garam masala
• 1½ teaspoons turmeric
• 1½ teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked basmati rice or naan (to serve)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, coriander, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.
2. Heat oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Sauté onions until soft and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, cooking another 1-2 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato puree and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and deepen in flavor.
5. Return chicken to the skillet, mixing to coat in sauce. Pour in heavy cream, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is tender and sauce is rich and creamy.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice or warm naan.

Methods

This dish follows a classic two-step cooking method: marination and simmering. The yogurt-based marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but infuses it with deep flavors. The slow cooking process allows the spices to bloom, enhancing the richness of the creamy tomato sauce.

History

Butter chicken originated in Delhi, India, during the 1950s, when leftover tandoori chicken was mixed into a creamy tomato-based sauce. Created by the chefs of the legendary Moti Mahal restaurant, it quickly became a global icon of Indian cuisine.

Benefits

Rich in protein and loaded with flavorful spices, butter chicken offers anti-inflammatory benefits from turmeric and digestion-enhancing properties from ginger and garlic. While indulgent, it can be made lighter by using low-fat cream or yogurt.

Formation

The perfect butter chicken results from a balance of marination, sautéing, and simmering. The layering of spices, cream, and tomatoes forms a silky, savory sauce that’s both comforting and luxurious.

Conclusion

Creamy Indian Butter Chicken is more than just a dish—it’s a flavorful experience. It brings together centuries of culinary tradition in a modern, satisfying recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Rich, aromatic, and utterly irresistible, it’s a must-try for food lovers.

Lovers

This dish is adored by food lovers across the globe. From home cooks to five-star chefs, butter chicken has become a symbol of comfort food with a gourmet touch. Its fans include spice enthusiasts and those who prefer milder, creamy flavors alike.

Nutrition

Per serving (approximate):
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 28g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g
*Values may vary based on serving size and ingredients used.

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something cozy, Creamy Indian Butter Chicken delivers every time. Rich in taste and heritage, it’s sure to win hearts and satisfy cravings.

Lovers

Food bloggers, chefs, and home cooks alike rave about this classic. Its universal appeal continues to grow, proving that a well-made butter chicken never goes out of style.