Discover the Origins and Recipe of Butter Chicken – A Mouth-Watering Indian Delight

Butter Chicken: A Rich and Creamy Indian Delight

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani in Hindi, is a popular Indian dish that has gained popularity all around the world. The dish is made up of tender pieces of chicken that have been marinated in a blend of spices and yogurt, then cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce. The dish is known for its rich and buttery flavor and is often served with rice or naan bread.

History of Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is said to have originated in the 1950s in Delhi, India. The dish was invented by a chef named Kundan Lal Gujral who ran a restaurant called Moti Mahal. According to legend, Gujral invented the dish as a way to use up leftover chicken. He decided to marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices to make it more tender and flavorful, then cook it in a tomato-based sauce that he had created. To add richness to the dish, Gujral decided to add butter and cream to the sauce, creating the rich and creamy flavor that Butter Chicken is known for.

Over time, Butter Chicken gained popularity and became a staple dish in Indian cuisine. Today, it is served in restaurants all around the world and is loved by people of all ages and backgrounds.

How to Make Butter Chicken

If you want to try making Butter Chicken at home, here is a recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can tomato puree (14 oz)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, chili powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon. Add the chicken and stir to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least an hour.
2. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the tomato puree and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan bread.

Tips: 

• Use fresh ingredients to enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Marinate the chicken overnight to allow the spices to fully penetrate the meat.
• Use ghee or clarified butter to enhance the richness of the dish.
• Adjust the spice level to your taste by adding more or less chili powder.
• Use a high-quality tomato puree or passata for the sauce.
• Finish the dish with a touch of cream or yogurt for a creamy texture.
• Serve with naan bread or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Don't skip the step of simmering the dish for a few extra minutes to let the flavors meld together.
• Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.
• Experiment with different spice combinations and ingredients to create your own unique version of this classic dish.

Enjoy the rich and creamy goodness of Butter Chicken right in your own home. This classic Indian dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its bold flavors and delicious aroma.