The Ultimate Butter Chicken Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Restaurant-Quality Flavors at Home
Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved Indian dish celebrated for its rich, creamy tomato-based sauce and tender, flavorful chicken. This recipe guides you through creating this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen. Get ready to impress your friends and family with authentic, restaurant-quality butter chicken!
Ingredients: For the Marinade
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces (Chicken breasts can be substituted, but thighs remain juicier).
- 1 cup plain yogurt, full-fat for best results.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice – fresh is always best!
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt to taste
Ingredients: For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions: Marinating the Chicken
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful chicken.
Instructions: Preparing the Sauce
- Melt butter in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and golden brown. This takes patience – don't rush it!
- Add ginger and garlic paste and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, garam masala, turmeric powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and sugar. Season with salt to taste. Simmer gently for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Instructions: Cooking the Chicken
- Add the marinated chicken to the sauce. Stir gently to coat the chicken evenly.
- Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Reduce heat if it simmers too quickly.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your delicious butter chicken with:
- Basmati rice: A classic accompaniment that perfectly complements the rich sauce.
- Naan bread: Use this fluffy bread to soak up every last drop of that amazing sauce.
- Plain yogurt or raita: A cooling counterpoint to the richness of the dish.
Tips for the Best Butter Chicken
- Don't skip the marinating step! This is key to tender, flavorful chicken.
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. The flavor difference is noticeable.
- Adjust the spice level to your liking. Start with less chili powder and cayenne pepper and add more if needed.
- Don't overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken will be dry.
This recipe provides a fantastic base. Feel free to experiment with additions like a touch of cream cheese for extra richness, or different spices to personalize your butter chicken experience. Enjoy!
