Authentic Indian Butter Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Amazing Experience
Introduction
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is one of the most beloved dishes in Indian cuisine. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, it has won hearts all over the world. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe will guide you through creating an authentic Butter Chicken at home. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this amazing dish!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Authentic Indian Butter Chicken is not only a delicious way to spend time in the kitchen, but it’s also a fantastic way to introduce your taste buds to the bold flavors of Indian spices. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or simply a cozy dinner at home. Plus, it’s a comforting meal that pairs wonderfully with rice or naan bread. Why not try this recipe and bring a little taste of India into your home?
How to Make Authentic Indian Butter Chicken
Creating Authentic Indian Butter Chicken can be an enjoyable process when you follow these straightforward steps:
Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor.
Sauté Onions: In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Cook Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Add Tomato Purée: Pour in the tomato puree, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Finish with Cream: Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, mixing until well incorporated. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
How to Serve Authentic Indian Butter Chicken
Serve your Authentic Indian Butter Chicken hot over a bed of fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan bread. You can also offer additional sides like cucumber raita or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. Enjoy your meal!
How to Store Authentic Indian Butter Chicken
If you have leftovers, store your Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if it thickens too much.
Tips to Make Authentic Indian Butter Chicken
- Marinate Overnight: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to adjust the chili powder to match your heat preference.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh spices and ingredients will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with paneer or mixed vegetables. The cooking process remains largely the same, giving you a delicious vegetarian Butter Chicken.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well too, but they may cook faster. Be sure not to overcook them to avoid dryness.
2. Can I freeze Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! Butter Chicken freezes well. Store it in an airtight container and reheat it when needed.
3. What can I serve with Butter Chicken?
You can serve it with naan, rice, or even a simple green salad. Some people enjoy it with a side of yogurt-based raita.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones! Your culinary adventure is just beginning.
Butter Chicken
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1 cup yogurt Preferably plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice Freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder Adjust to heat preference
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 pound chicken thighs Boneless or bone-in, cut into pieces
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter For sautéing
- 1 large onion Chopped
- 3 cloves garlic Minced
- 1 inch ginger Grated
- 1 cup tomato purée
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for the best flavor.
Cooking
- In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Pour in the tomato purée, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, mixing until well incorporated. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
