1# Deep Dive into the Rich and Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
Indian Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a classic dish from the Indian subcontinent, renowned for its creamy, tomato-based sauce and tender, marinated chicken pieces. Originating in Delhi, India, this dish has garnered international fame for its rich flavors and sumptuous texture. The recipe is a harmonious blend of aromatic spices, yogurt-marinated chicken, and a velvety sauce made with butter, cream, and tomatoes. It’s often served with naan or basmati rice, making it an indulgent meal that’s both comforting and deeply satisfying.
2# Ingredients for Indian Butter Chicken
To prepare Indian Butter Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 2 tablespoons ginger garlic paste
For the Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon ginger garlic paste
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
3# Instructions for Preparing Indian Butter Chicken
1. **Marinate the Chicken**: Combine yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, cumin, and ginger garlic paste in a bowl. Add the chicken and coat well with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
2. **Cook the Chicken**: Skewer the marinated chicken pieces and grill them until just cooked through. You can also pan-fry them in a little oil over medium heat until browned and cooked. Set aside.
3. **Prepare the Sauce**: In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until they turn translucent. Add ginger garlic paste and cook for another minute.
4. **Add Spices and Tomatoes**: Stir in chili powder, garam masala, and cumin. Cook for a couple of minutes until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. **Combine Chicken and Sauce**: Add the grilled or pan-fried chicken pieces to the sauce, and let them simmer together for about 10 minutes.
6. **Final Touches**: Stir in the heavy cream and adjust salt to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce is thickened to your liking.
7. **Garnish and Serve**: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or basmati rice.
4# Notes for the Indian Butter Chicken Recipe
– If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the onion-tomato mixture before adding the chicken.
– Adjust the level of spiciness to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder.
– For a healthier version, you can use light cream or coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
– Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
5# Nutrition Informations
| Nutrition | Amount |
|———————–|——–|
| Prep Time | 15 min |
| Cook Time | 30 min |
| Total Time | 45 min |
| Yield | 4 servings |
| Category | Main Course |
| Method | Sautéing, Simmering |
| Cuisine | Indian |
| Diet | Gluten-Free (if served without naan) |
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
| Calories | 490 kcal |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 730 mg |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15 g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 10 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Cholesterol | 180 mg |
6# FAQs about Indian Butter Chicken
**Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for butter chicken?**
A: Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor.
**Q: Is butter chicken spicy?**
A: Butter chicken has a mild heat but can be adjusted to be spicier or milder according to taste.
**Q: Can I make butter chicken dairy-free?**
A: To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use coconut milk instead of cream.
**Q: How can I thicken the butter chicken sauce?**
A: You can simmer the sauce for a longer time to reduce and thicken it, or add a cornstarch slurry to achieve the desired consistency.
**Q: Is Indian Butter Chicken the same as Chicken Tikka Masala?**
A: No, they are different dishes. Chicken Tikka Masala typically has a more complex spice profile and may not include cream, whereas butter chicken is characterized by its creamy texture.
**Q: What can I serve with Indian Butter Chicken?**
A: It’s traditionally served with naan or steamed basmati rice, but you can also serve it with roti, paratha, or even over a bed of quinoa for a healthier twist.