Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)

Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is a beloved Indian dish that tantalizes taste buds with its rich flavors and creamy texture. This recipe transforms tender chicken pieces into a culinary masterpiece, enveloped in a luscious tomato and cream sauce. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Butter Chicken boasts the charm of an aromatic Indian kitchen, creating a comforting dish that invites family and friends to gather around the table. Having perfected this recipe over the years, I can assure you that it captures the essence of home-cooked goodness.

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are countless reasons to make Butter Chicken a staple in your repertoire. This dish is not only delightful but also incredibly versatile and approachable for all skill levels. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want a cozy night in, Butter Chicken strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort.

One standout aspect is how it combines accessible ingredients while delivering a depth of flavor typically found in restaurants. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in about an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

"This Butter Chicken recipe was an instant hit in my household! The creamy sauce and tender chicken had everyone coming back for seconds."

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Preparing Butter Chicken is a straightforward and enjoyable experience that involves marinating, cooking, and then savoring. The marination adds a delightful depth of flavor while ensuring the chicken remains juicy. By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a dish that’s sure to impress.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Before diving in, gather these ingredients that will come together to create your tantalizing Butter Chicken:

• 500g chicken, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Naan and rice, for serving

You can substitute yogurt with a dairy-free option if needed and modify the spices to suit your taste!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, garam masala, paprika, and salt to create a marinade.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it’s well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for enhanced flavor.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown and aromatic.
4. Add in the marinated chicken. Cook until browned, which should take about 8-10 minutes.
5. Stir in the tomato puree and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
6. Reduce the heat, and then stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
7. Finish by garnishing with fresh cilantro before serving with warm naan and fluffy rice.

Best Way to Serve

Butter Chicken is best enjoyed with naan or rice, soaking up the rich sauce. To elevate your meal, consider serving a side of cucumber raita for a refreshing contrast. For a more complete Indian feast, pair it with sides like palak paneer or a mixed vegetable curry. You can’t go wrong with some crispy papadums either!

Storage Tips

To keep your Butter Chicken fresh for longer, allow it to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, ensure it’s heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety. For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to defrost it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Expert Advice

For the most flavorful Butter Chicken, let the chicken marinate longer—ideally overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat. Additionally, feel free to adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the paprika and garam masala according to your palate.

Creative Twists

Looking to add a unique spin to your Butter Chicken? Try incorporating spinach to create a murgh saag makhani variation, or add some diced bell peppers for an extra crunch. For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika or adding a touch of liquid smoke during cooking. If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute the chicken with paneer for a delicious vegetarian option!

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare Butter Chicken?

Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, but remember to account for marination time, ideally one hour or overnight.

Can I make Butter Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! Butter Chicken tastes even better the next day, and it can be made a day in advance. Just store it properly in the fridge.

Is it possible to make Butter Chicken healthier?

Certainly! You can use a reduced-fat yogurt and cream to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, pairing it with brown rice instead of naan can increase its nutritional value.

Incorporating these tips and guidance can help you master the art of creating Butter Chicken that not only delights the senses but also feels right at home on your dinner table. Happy cooking!

Butter Chicken

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• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A beloved Indian dish featuring tender chicken pieces in a rich tomato and cream sauce.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500g chicken, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Naan and rice, for serving

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, garam masala, paprika, and salt to create a marinade.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it’s well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for enhanced flavor.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown and aromatic.
4. Add the marinated chicken. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Stir in the tomato puree and bring to a gentle boil.
6. Reduce the heat, and stir in the heavy cream. Allow to simmer for about 10 minutes.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving with warm naan and rice.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Serve with cucumber raita for a refreshing contrast.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Butter Chicken, Indian cuisine, Murgh Makhani, chicken recipe, creamy sauce