A CLASSIC BUTTER CHICKEN RECIPE
INTRIDUCTION
Butter chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is a beloved Indian dish known for its creamy, flavorful tomato-based sauce and tender chicken. This Indian butter chicken recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. Follow this easy butter chicken recipe to bring restaurant-quality flavors to your home in no time.
INGREDIENTS
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 500g boneless chicken, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
For the Butter Chicken Gravy:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 medium tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cashew paste (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tbsp Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Salt to taste
METHOD
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine the chicken with the marinade ingredients. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a pan with a little butter. Cook the marinated chicken on medium heat until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Gravy: In the same pan, melt butter and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until aromatic. Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.
- Mix in cashew paste, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Gravy: Add the cooked chicken to the gravy. Simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and Kasuri Methi for that classic butter chicken recipe flavor.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cream and coriander leaves. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
TIP
For the best butter chicken recipe, use fresh ingredients and marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours. This enhances tenderness and infuses the chicken with rich flavors.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this a vegetarian dish?
Yes, replace chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Q: What makes this the best butter chicken recipe?
The balance of creaminess, spices, and a well-marinated chicken ensures rich, authentic flavors.
Q: Can I skip the cashew paste?
Absolutely! It’s optional but adds extra creaminess to this simple butter chicken recipe.
Enjoy this easy butter chicken recipe that brings the warmth of Indian cuisine to your plate!