Butter Chicken

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Butter chicken

Butter chicken, or murgh makhani, is a popular North Indian dish known for its rich, creamy, and mildly spiced tomato-based sauce. Here’s a basic recipe to help you make it at home:

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 500g boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Juice of half a lemon

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp butter (divided)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 cups tomato puree (or 4-5 fresh tomatoes, blended and strained)
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (for a lighter option, use milk or coconut milk)
  • 1 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken:
  • In a large bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, salt, and lemon juice.
  • Add the chicken pieces, making sure they’re well coated. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or overnight for the best flavor).
  1. Cook the Chicken:
  • In a skillet or grill pan, heat a little oil or butter. Add the marinated chicken and cook until almost fully done, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
  1. Prepare the Sauce:
  • In a large saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until golden brown.
  • Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute.
  • Add tomato puree, chili powder, turmeric, and garam masala. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the oil starts to separate (about 10-15 minutes).
  • Add sugar, salt, and cream. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for a few more minutes.
  1. Combine and Finish:
  • Add the cooked chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes so the flavors meld.
  • Stir in the remaining butter and garnish with fresh cilantro.
  1. Serve:
  • Serve hot with naan, rice, or roti.

Enjoy the rich, buttery flavors of this classic dish!

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