Butter Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Journey Through India’s Culinary Delight

Butter Chicken Recipe. When it comes to indulging in the rich, aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine, Butter Chicken undoubtedly reigns supreme. This classic dish, also known as “Murgh Makhani” in Hindi, has captured the hearts and taste buds of people worldwide. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a culinary journey to explore the history, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to master the art of making Butter Chicken at home. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering recipe.

Butter Chicken Recipe: A Flavorful Journey Through India’s Culinary Delight

The Origins of Butter Chicken

Before we delve into the recipe, let’s uncover the fascinating history behind this delectable dish. Butter Chicken was created in the kitchens of Moti Mahal, a legendary restaurant in Delhi, India, during the 1950s. The dish was an ingenious way to utilize leftover tandoori chicken by simmering it in a rich, tomato-based gravy. Its creamy texture and harmonious blend of spices made it an instant hit, quickly spreading across India and beyond.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you embark on your culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• • 500g boneless chicken, cut into cubes
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste

For the Gravy:

• • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 teaspoons red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt to taste

For Garnish:

• • Fresh coriander leaves
  • Cream

Let’s Get Cooking

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

1. In a bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse.

Step 2: Preparing the Gravy

1. Heat the butter and oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a few minutes until the raw aroma dissipates.
4. Sprinkle in the red chili powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala. Cook for another minute.
5. Add the tomato puree and simmer until the oil begins to separate from the gravy.
6. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a rich, creamy texture. Season with salt.

Step 3: Bringing It All Together

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
2. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill or bake them until they are cooked through and slightly charred.
3. Remove the chicken from the skewers and add it to the creamy tomato gravy.
4. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

The Final Touch

Garnish your Butter Chicken with fresh coriander leaves and a drizzle of cream for that perfect finishing touch.

Conclusion

Indulging in homemade Butter Chicken is a sensory journey that allows you to savor the rich flavors of India’s culinary heritage. This iconic dish, born out of creativity and passion, has earned its place on dining tables worldwide. By following this comprehensive recipe, you can recreate the magic of Butter Chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on a flavorful adventure that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Enjoy!