Butter Chicken Recipe | Creamy Indian Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Naan and Rice

Butter Chicken Recipe | Creamy Indian Chicken in Tomato Sauce with Naan and Rice

One popular recipe from India is Butter Chicken (also known as Murgh Makhani). This rich, flavorful dish has become a favorite both in India and internationally. Butter chicken is made with tender chicken cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce, spiced with a variety of aromatic Indian spices.

Butter Chicken Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Marinade:

• 1 ½ lbs chicken (boneless, skinless thighs or breast), cut into pieces
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 ½ tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 ½ tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter (for cooking)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 2 cups tomato puree
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 ½ tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Mix the marinade: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Grill or pan-fry the chicken: You can either grill the marinated chicken on medium-high heat until cooked through (about 7-10 minutes) or pan-fry in a bit of oil until lightly charred and cooked. Set aside once cooked.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Cook the onions: In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Add garlic and ginger: Add the minced garlic and ginger and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the spices: Stir in garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, and chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices bloom and become aromatic.
4. Add the tomatoes: Pour in the tomato puree and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes. You want the sauce to thicken slightly and become rich in flavor.

Step 4: Make the Butter Chicken

1. Add the cream: Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version) and stir well. Let the sauce simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
2. Add the cooked chicken: Add the cooked chicken pieces into the sauce and stir gently to coat the chicken in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer on low for an additional 5-7 minutes until everything is heated through.
3. Taste and adjust: Season with additional salt or chili powder if needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish the butter chicken with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
2. Accompaniments: Serve with naan bread or basmati rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Rice or Naan: Butter Chicken is best enjoyed with steamed basmati rice or soft, warm naan bread.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a side of raita (yogurt with cucumber and spices) or a light salad with cucumber, onions, and tomatoes.

This Butter Chicken recipe is a flavorful, creamy dish that captures the essence of Indian cuisine. It’s perfect for special occasions or as a comforting weeknight meal! 🍛✨