The aroma of tender chicken simmering in a rich, creamy sauce will take you on a culinary journey to India with this delicious butter chicken recipe. Imagine the buttery goodness melting in your mouth, accompanied by a symphony of spices that dances on your taste buds, making every bite an unforgettable experience.
As I sat at my grandmother’s table, surrounded by the laughter of family and the warm glow of candlelight, I remember being captivated by her cooking. This butter chicken recipe became a staple in our home during festive gatherings and cozy Sunday dinners alike. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging yourself after a long day, and let me tell you, that anticipation of the first taste is enough to keep you dreaming all day.
Why You'll Love This butter chicken recipe
- This incredible butter chicken recipe transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious butter chicken recipe:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
For the Sauce:
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness; it adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
- Canned Tomatoes: Opt for crushed tomatoes to create a smooth base; they provide sweetness and acidity.
- Heavy Cream: This is crucial for that luscious texture; it makes everything richer and more indulgent.
- Spices (Garam Masala, Cumin, Coriander): Don’t skimp on spices! They’re what give this dish its signature flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious butter chicken recipe:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix yogurt with garlic paste, ginger paste, garam masala, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and salt. Add diced chicken breasts and ensure each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least one hour (or overnight if you’re feeling ambitious).
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. Then add minced garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant—about one minute.
Step 3: Cook Chicken
Add marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked; we’ll finish it off later.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Stir in crushed tomatoes into the skillet along with remaining spices—cumin, coriander, chili powder—and simmer for about ten minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully!
Step 5: Finish with Cream
Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer gently for another five minutes until thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—this is where you can channel your inner chef!
Step 6: Serve
Transfer to plates over fluffy basmati rice or with warm naan bread for dipping. Drizzle extra cream on top if you want to go all out!
Enjoy your homemade masterpiece while basking in compliments from friends or family who are about to fall head-over-heels for your culinary skills!
You Must Know About butter chicken recipe
- This showstopping butter chicken recipe delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then prepare the sauce while it cooks. Once everything is combined, let it simmer away until your kitchen smells like a five-star restaurant.
Flavor Your Way
Feel free to swap out chicken for paneer or tofu if you’re feeling adventurous. Experiment with different spices like garam masala or add some heat with chopped chilies based on your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it saucy.
Chef's Helpful Tips for butter chicken recipe
- This professional-quality butter chicken recipe relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sharing this recipe reminds me of the time I surprised my family with a homemade feast; their delighted faces were priceless when they took their first bites!
FAQs
What is butter chicken recipe?
The butter chicken recipe, also known as Murgh Makhani, originates from India and features tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. This dish combines aromatic spices and herbs, creating a delightful blend of flavors. Traditionally served with naan or rice, butter chicken has gained popularity worldwide for its comforting taste. The sauce’s buttery texture complements the marinated chicken perfectly, making it a favorite in many households. Whether you are a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences.
How long does it take to make butter chicken?
Preparing a butter chicken recipe typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour. The time can vary depending on your cooking experience and whether you choose to marinate the chicken beforehand. Marinating enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat but adds additional prep time of at least 30 minutes. Once marinated, cooking the chicken and preparing the sauce takes approximately 30 minutes. This makes it a feasible option for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Can I make butter chicken recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the butter chicken recipe in advance! This dish actually tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight, as the flavors meld beautifully over time. After cooking, allow the dish to cool before refrigerating it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or microwave until warmed through. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
What are some variations of butter chicken recipe?
There are several delicious variations of the traditional butter chicken recipe that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. For instance, you can experiment with different proteins like paneer for a vegetarian option or shrimp for seafood lovers. Additionally, feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your preference by adding more chili powder or garam masala. You can also substitute coconut milk for cream if you want a dairy-free alternative while still achieving that creamy texture which is so beloved in this dish.
Conclusion
In summary, the butter chicken recipe is an exquisite blend of flavors and textures that appeals to many palates. With its rich tomato sauce and tender marinated chicken, it’s no wonder this dish has become a global favorite. Whether you prepare it for family dinners or as part of special celebrations, this recipe offers flexibility through various adaptations. By following simple steps and incorporating your favorite ingredients, you’ll create a memorable meal that showcases the essence of Indian cuisine. Enjoy making this delicious butter chicken recipe!
Butter Chicken
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is a rich and creamy Indian classic that elevates tender chicken with aromatic spices in a luscious tomato sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a comforting meal. Served with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan, this dish promises to satisfy and leave everyone craving more.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, minced garlic, garam masala, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and salt. Add chicken and marinate for at least one hour.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Sauté onions until translucent. Add garlic; cook until fragrant.
- Add marinated chicken to skillet and brown for about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and remaining spices; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low; stir in heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes until thickened.
- Serve over basmati rice or with naan.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
