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Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken (also known as Murgh Makhani) is a rich and creamy dish featuring tender pieces of chicken in a velvety tomato-based sauce. This classic Indian dish is beloved for its combination of aromatic spices, creamy texture, and slight tanginess, making it perfect for a comforting meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this butter chicken recipe is simple enough for any home kitchen. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Butter Chicken Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

  1. Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, garam masala, paprika, and salt. Mix well to form a marinade.
  2. Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, coating them thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1-2 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Cook the Chicken

  1. Cook Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the marinated chicken pieces in batches, searing them until browned on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). The chicken does not need to be fully cooked through at this stage. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Butter Chicken Sauce

  1. Cook Onion, Garlic, and Ginger: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, garam masala, and chili powder (if using). Cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to become aromatic.
  3. Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  4. Blend the Sauce: If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to carefully blend the mixture until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the sauce to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the skillet.
  5. Add Cream and Cook Chicken: Stir in the heavy cream, water or chicken broth, and honey. Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet, along with any juices. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender.
  6. Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust salt as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.

Serve

  1. Serve Warm: Serve the butter chicken hot with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread.

Cook’s Notes and Tips

  • Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. If you have time, marinate it overnight for the best results.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder. You can also omit the chili powder entirely for a milder dish.
  • Cream Substitute: If you want a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or half-and-half.
  • Blending the Sauce: Blending the sauce gives it a smoother texture, but if you prefer a chunkier sauce, you can skip this step.

Variations

  • Vegetarian Butter Sauce: Substitute the chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish.
  • Butter Chicken with Vegetables: Add some vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Grilled Butter Chicken: Grill the marinated chicken pieces instead of cooking them in the skillet for a smoky flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Basmati Rice: Serve the butter chicken with steamed basmati rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Naan Bread: Warm naan bread is perfect for scooping up the delicious sauce and tender chicken.
  • Raita: Serve with a side of cucumber raita to balance the richness of the sauce with a cooling element.
  • Pickled Onions: Garnish with quick-pickled onions for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make Butter Chicken Ahead of Time?

Yes, butter chicken can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often improve the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze butter chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, making them ideal for this dish.

What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that this may slightly change the flavor and texture of the sauce.

How Can I Make It Spicier?

To make butter chicken spicier, add extra chili powder or a chopped green chili to the sauce. Adjust the heat to your taste preference.

Butter Chicken is a classic, comforting dish that’s beloved for its creamy, flavorful sauce and tender chicken. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special dinner, and it pairs wonderfully with rice or naan. The blend of spices and rich creaminess creates a dish that’s sure to be a family favorite. Gather your ingredients, cook, and enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic Indian dish!

Happy Cooking!

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