Indian Butter Chicken

Indian Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved dish that originated in Northern India. It features tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices. This dish has gained international acclaim for its delectable blend of flavors and luxurious texture.​

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of butter, cream, and tomatoes creates a luscious sauce that’s both comforting and indulgent.​
• Aromatic Spices: A medley of spices like garam masala, cumin, and turmeric provides depth and warmth to the dish.​
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Enjoy a gourmet Indian meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.​Swasthi’s Recipes+9Reddit+9TwoSleevers+9
• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spiciness to your preference, making it suitable for all palates.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs​
• Plain yogurt​
• Lemon juice​Foodess+2The Candid Cooks+2EatingWell+2
• Garlic cloves​Indian Simmer+2EatingWell+2The Sun+2
• Fresh ginger​
• Garam masala​Averie Cooks
• Ground cumin​Averie Cooks+1The Candid Cooks+1
• Ground turmeric​Averie Cooks
• Chili powder or cayenne pepper​
• Salt​The Candid Cooks+2Averie Cooks+2RecipeTin Eats+2
• Unsalted butter​Foodess+1The Sun+1
• Onion​Allrecipes+4Half Baked Harvest+4Bon Appétit+4
• Tomato puree or canned tomatoes​Carlsbad Cravings
• Heavy cream​
• Fresh cilantro leaves​RecipeTin Eats+4The Candid Cooks+4Averie Cooks+4

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.​
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a portion of the butter and cook the marinated chicken until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.​
3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and sauté finely chopped onions until golden brown. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until fragrant. Stir in garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder, cooking for another minute.​
4. Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in tomato puree, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer until the sauce thickens and deepens in color.​
5. Incorporate Cream and Chicken: Lower the heat and slowly stir in heavy cream, mixing until the sauce is smooth. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Simmer for a few minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through.​
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the dish. Serve hot with basmati rice and naan bread.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4​Easy Family Recipes+3Allrecipes+3Reddit+3
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes​
• Marination Time: At least 1 hour (overnight preferred)​
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes​

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with paneer or tofu for a meat-free version.​
• Spice Level Adjustment: Modify the amount of chili powder or cayenne to control the heat.​
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and dairy-free butter alternatives.​Carlsbad Cravings
• Grilled Chicken: For added smoky flavor, grill the marinated chicken before adding it to the sauce.​Foodess+4Carlsbad Cravings+4The Sun+4

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.​
• Freezing: Butter Chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.​Foodess+1Carlsbad Cravings+1
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if the sauce has thickened. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.​Foodess

FAQs

What is the origin of Butter Chicken?

Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, originated in Delhi, India, in the early 20th century as a way to rejuvenate leftover tandoori chicken by simmering it in a rich tomato and butter-based sauce. ​Nik Sharma Cooks+2Bon Appétit+2Allrecipes+2

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are often preferred for their juiciness and flavor. They remain tender and add richness to the dish.​

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?

While marinating overnight enhances the flavor, marinating for at least 1 hour will still yield delicious results.​

Can I make Butter Chicken without cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, which also adds a subtle coconut flavor.​

How can I make the dish spicier?

Increase the amount of chili powder or add freshly chopped green chilies to the sauce to elevate the heat level.​

What can I serve with Butter Chicken?

Traditionally, it’s served with basmati rice and naan bread. A side of cucumber salad or roasted vegetables also complements the dish well.​Allrecipes+1Allrecipes+1

Can I prepare Butter Chicken in advance?

Yes, Butter Chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day ahead and reheat before serving.​

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Ensure the heat is low when adding cream, and avoid boiling the

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