Easy Butter Chicken Recipe: Authentic Indian Delight

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is one of the most beloved Indian dishes around the world. Originating from Delhi, this dish is celebrated for its rich and creamy tomato-based sauce and tender, marinated chicken pieces. Whether you're an avid home cook or someone who occasionally dabbles in the kitchen, this easy-to-follow butter chicken recipe will guide you through creating an authentic Indian delight at home. Let's dive into the flavors and techniques that make this dish a standout.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 ¹⁄₂ teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons garlic paste
• 2 teaspoons ginger paste
• ¹⁄₄ cup cashew nuts, ground to a paste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 can (14 oz) tomato puree
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 2 teaspoons fenugreek leaves, dried (kasoori methi)

Preparation

Marinating the Chicken

The key to a flavorful butter chicken lies in the marinade:

1. Combine yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, garam masala, cumin, chili powder, and salt in a bowl.
2. Add the chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly with the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.

Cooking the Chicken

Here’s how to bring out the best flavor:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

Making the Sauce

This step creates the buttery richness of Butter Chicken:

1. In a large pan or skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add shallots and cook until translucent.
2. Add butter, garlic paste, and ginger paste, sauté until aromatic.
3. Stir in the cashew paste, tomato paste, and tomato puree. Cook for a few minutes.
4. Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream slowly to prevent curdling.
5. Add sugar if the sauce is too tart, and season with salt.
6. Crush fenugreek leaves between your palms and add to the sauce.
7. Gently simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

• Add the baked chicken pieces to the sauce, stirring gently to coat them evenly.
• Simmer for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Check for seasoning and adjust salt or spice as needed.

Garnishing

Just before serving:

• Garnish with a swirl of cream, a drizzle of melted butter, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

🍽️ Note: If you want to maintain a traditional approach, do not substitute yogurt with other dairy products like sour cream or cream cheese, as it alters the taste significantly.

There you have it—an authentic butter chicken that's creamy, flavorful, and bursting with the iconic Indian flavors. Enjoy this dish with some naan, roti, or a bed of fragrant basmati rice. This recipe not only brings the restaurant experience home but also allows for personal touches, making it adaptable for those with varying spice preferences or dietary restrictions.

Now, let's address some frequently asked questions about this beloved dish:

Can I use chicken with bones for Butter Chicken?

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Yes, you can use chicken with bones. The cooking time might increase slightly, but it can impart an even richer flavor to the sauce.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

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Substitute the yogurt with non-dairy yogurt, and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. You can also skip the butter and use a good quality vegetable oil or a vegan butter substitute.

What if I don't have fenugreek leaves?

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Fenugreek leaves, or kasoori methi, add a unique flavor, but if you can't find them, you can use a small amount of fenugreek seeds or skip this step entirely. The dish will still be delicious, albeit slightly different.

Can I freeze Butter Chicken?

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Absolutely! Butter Chicken freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing. When reheating, add a bit more cream or water if the sauce has thickened.

What are the health benefits of this dish?

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While butter chicken is known for its richness, it includes ingredients like turmeric, which has anti-inflammatory properties, and tomatoes, which are high in lycopene and vitamin C. However, to make it healthier, consider using yogurt, reducing the cream, and adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.

This authentic Indian delight not only delights the palate but also brings the warmth and comfort of Indian cuisine right into your home. Enjoy the process of cooking, savoring every step that leads you to the final, flavorful bite.