Introduction

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is an iconic dish that perfectly captures the richness and depth of Indian cuisine. Originating from the vibrant kitchens of Delhi, this creamy and mildly spiced curry has won the hearts of food lovers worldwide. Its silky tomato-based sauce, blended with aromatic spices and enriched with butter and cream, creates a harmonious balance that’s both comforting and luxurious. Whether you’re planning a weekend feast or craving a midweek indulgence, this classic non-vegetarian recipe is sure to impress every palate.

In this blog, we’ll explore the history of Butter Chicken, its step-by-step preparation, essential cooking tips, and serving suggestions to help you recreate restaurant-quality flavors in your own kitchen. Let’s embark on a delicious journey into the world of Butter Chicken.

The Story Behind Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken’s roots can be traced back to the 1950s in Delhi, when chefs at a small eatery called Moti Mahal accidentally created the dish while experimenting with leftover tandoori chicken. They simmered the chicken in a creamy tomato sauce enriched with butter and spices, giving birth to what we now celebrate as Butter Chicken. This innovative twist turned a humble leftover into an international culinary sensation.

Over time, Butter Chicken evolved, with chefs across India and beyond putting their own spin on the dish. Some recipes add cashew paste for extra creaminess, while others adjust the spice level to cater to different palates. Regardless of the variation, Butter Chicken remains a beloved classic that beautifully bridges traditional flavors with modern tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 500g boneless chicken (preferably thigh meat), cut into bite-sized chunks

• ½ cup thick yogurt

• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

• 1 teaspoon red chili powder

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• Salt to taste

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Gravy:

• 3 tablespoons butter (unsalted)

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 large tomatoes, pureed

• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon cumin powder

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• ½ teaspoon garam masala

• ½ cup fresh cream

• 2 tablespoons cashew paste (optional, but recommended for a richer sauce)

• Salt to taste

• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Optional:

• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (to balance the acidity of tomatoes)

• ½ teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), crushed

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt.

• Add the chicken pieces and mix well, ensuring every piece is coated evenly.

• Cover the bowl with cling film and let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour. For best results, refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Heat a grill pan or a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat.

• Add a drizzle of oil or a small knob of butter.

• Grill or sauté the marinated chicken pieces until they develop a light char and are cooked through. This step not only cooks the chicken but also imparts a smoky flavor reminiscent of tandoori-style cooking.

• Remove the cooked chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Gravy

• In a large pan or kadai, heat 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

• Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

• Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw aroma disappears.

• Add red chili powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Stir well to release the flavours of the spices.

• Pour in the tomato puree and cook the mixture until the oil begins to separate from the sauce. This step ensures the tomatoes are fully cooked and the gravy base is flavourful.

• Stir in the cashew paste (if using) to enhance the creaminess.

• Add the cooked chicken pieces to the gravy and stir gently to coat them evenly.

• Pour in the fresh cream and simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together. If desired, add honey or sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

• Finally, sprinkle garam masala and crushed kasuri methi over the gravy. Stir well and adjust the seasoning with salt.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken

1. Use Boneless Thighs: Thigh meat remains tender and juicy compared to chicken breast, which can dry out.

2. Marinate Overnight: This helps the spices penetrate the meat, ensuring maximum flavour.

3. Char the Chicken: A slight char enhances the smoky, tandoori-style aroma. If you have a tandoor or grill, that’s even better!

4. Tomato Balance: Always cook the tomato base thoroughly to remove raw flavors and acidity.

5. Add Cream Gradually: Stir in cream slowly to prevent curdling and achieve a smooth sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed Basmati Rice: Its fluffy texture soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly.

• Naan or Garlic Naan: Soft and pillowy, naan is ideal for scooping up the gravy.

• Jeera Rice: Fragrant cumin rice adds a delightful aroma and balances the richness of the curry.

• Roti or Parathas: These traditional Indian breads make for a hearty meal.

• Green Salad or Pickled Onions: These fresh sides provide a welcome contrast to the richness of the dish.

Variations You Might Love

• Cashew Butter Chicken: Add extra cashew paste for a nuttier, creamier flavour.

• Spicy Butter Chicken: Increase red chili powder or add green chilies for extra heat.

• Paneer Butter Masala: Replace chicken with paneer cubes for a vegetarian version that’s equally delicious.

Conclusion: Indulge in the Timeless Flavours of Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken isn’t just a dish—it’s a culinary experience that evokes warmth, comfort, and nostalgia. Its luxurious blend of tender chicken, velvety sauce, and aromatic spices captures the essence of Indian hospitality and culture. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a curious beginner, this recipe offers a rewarding way to master a restaurant favorite in your own kitchen.

So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and let the magic of Butter Chicken unfold. Share it with family and friends, or treat yourself to a comforting bowl of this non-vegetarian classic that never fails to satisfy. 🍛✨