Welcome to the delicious world of Butter Chicken! Wherever you are in the world, be it you’re in Mumbai, London, Tokyo, or New York City, chances are you’ve heard whispers of this iconic dish. Perhaps you’ve even had the pleasure of savoring its flavors yourself.
Originating in India, prepared for the British, Butter Chicken quickly won hearts across the globe with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Today, I’m thrilled to share my own take on this beloved classic. Not only is it incredibly mouthwatering, but it’s also surprisingly simple to whip up at home.
Say goodbye to restaurant cravings, because once you’ve tasted this homemade version, you’ll never look back. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the irresistible flavors of Butter Chicken!
Ingredients
- 500g boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon Garam masala(Click here for the homemade recipe)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Kasuri Methi(Dry fenugreek leaves)
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Recipe Instructions
- In a bowl, mix together yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well with the marinade. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat butter and oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add the marinated chicken along with any remaining marinade. Cook until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Add tomato puree and tomato paste to the cooked chicken. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors come together.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Crush Kasuri methi in between your palms over the gravy. and let it simmer for 1 minute.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with naan or rice.
Tips and Tricks
Spiciness: Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili powder according to your preference.
Texture: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the sauce before adding the cream.
Marinate for Flavor: For maximum flavor, marinate your chicken in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh tomatoes and homemade garam masala for the best taste. Freshly ground spices can elevate the dish to a whole new level.
Creaminess Factor: To achieve that creamy texture, use full-fat yogurt and heavy cream. For a healthier alternative, you can substitute with Greek yogurt and coconut milk.
Butter vs. Ghee: While traditionally made with butter, you can also use ghee for a richer flavor. Experiment with both to see which you prefer.
FAQs
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use bone-in chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, Butter Chicken actually tastes even better when reheated, as the flavors have had more time to develop. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat before serving.
Q: Can I make Butter Chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes! Butter Chicken tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze Butter Chicken?
Absolutely! Butter Chicken freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I make Butter Chicken without cream?
While cream adds richness to the dish, you can substitute it with coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just be aware that the flavor will be slightly different.
Q: What can I serve with Butter Chicken?
A: Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, naan bread, or even a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside some fragrant basmati rice and warm garlic naan.
Butter Chicken is truly a dish that delights both the palate and the senses. With its creamy texture and aromatic spices, it’s no wonder why it’s a favorite in Indian cuisine. Armed with this simple recipe and a few handy tips, you’re now ready to embark on your Butter Chicken culinary adventure. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to savor the magic of Butter Chicken right at home!