Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved Indian dish famous for its creamy tomato gravy and tender, flavorful chicken. Contrary to popular belief, this restaurant favorite can be easily recreated at home! This guide will walk you through a simple butter chicken recipe, transforming you from a takeout enthusiast to a butter chicken connoisseur.
Gather your ingredients:
Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved Indian dish famous for its creamy tomato gravy and tender chicken. Don’t be intimidated by its restaurant-made reputation – this butter chicken recipe is surprisingly simple to create at home!
Gather your ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (cubed)
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt to taste
For the Butter Chicken Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
Now, let's cook!
- Marinate the Chicken: Marrying the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, ginger-garlic paste, coriander, and salt in a bowl. Place the chicken pieces into the bowl and toss them to avoid clumping. Make sure the fish is well marinated at least for half an hour (or even overnight) in the refrigerator.
- Cook the Chicken: Put butter in a pan over medium heat and wait for it to melt. Spray a pan with the nonstick cooking spray and add the chicken breast pieces. Brown until golden on all sides. Then, move the food away from the pan onto the side.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add chopped onions and cook until softened.
- Build the Sauce: Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, and turmeric. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Finishing Touches: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish your butter chicken with fresh cilantro and serve over steamed rice or fluffy naan for a delightful and authentic Indian meal.
This recipe offers a basic framework, so feel free to experiment! Want a smokier? Add a pinch of smoked paprika. Craving a touch of sweetness? A teaspoon of honey can do wonders. With a little practice, you’ll be a butter chicken master in no time!