Butter Chicken

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Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved Indian dish that has taken the world by storm. With its rich, creamy tomato sauce and tender chicken, this recipes offers a perfect blend of spices that transports you straight to the streets of Delhi. It’s not only an inviting meal for family gatherings but also a delightful way to treat yourself after a long day. Best served with naan or rice, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There are countless versions of Butter Chicken out there, but this one stands out for several reasons. First, its simplicity allows you to whip it up without needing culinary expertise while still delivering impressive flavor. Second, this recipe uses easily accessible ingredients without compromising on authenticity. When you take that first bite, the tender chicken enveloped in a velvety sauce will make your heart skip a beat. This dish is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a blend of comforting flavors and a hint of spice.

Ingredients

To make the best Butter Chicken, gather these ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons (28 g) butter, divided
• 2 pounds (900 g) chicken breasts, skinless, boneless, diced into bite-size pieces
• 5 cloves garlic, about 5 teaspoons, minced
• 2 inch (5 cm) fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 15 ounce can (400 ml) tomato sauce or passata
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, mint, or cilantro, for garnish

How To Make Butter Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken pieces, seasoning with a little salt. Sauté the chicken until it is golden brown and fully cooked, usually about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn them.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Now, it’s time to bring the flavor! Add the ground cumin, garam masala, chili powder (if using), smoked paprika, ground turmeric, and salt to the skillet. Stir well to combine the spices with the garlic and ginger, allowing them to bloom and release their essential oils for about 1 minute.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Next, pour in the tomato sauce or passata. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and trust me, you’ll want to dive right in!

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Cream

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and stir to coat it with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, stirring until everything is well combined. Allow it to simmer on low for an additional 5 minutes to ensure all flavors meld beautifully together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat. Serve your luscious Butter Chicken hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley, mint, or cilantro. Pair it with fluffy naan or steamed basmati rice for a complete meal that will leave your taste buds singing.

Expert Tips

• Marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight with yogurt, garlic, ginger, and a splash of lemon juice for extra flavor and tenderness.
• If you like it spicy, feel free to increase the amount of chili powder or add red chili flakes.
• For a smoky flavor, you can add a few drops of liquid smoke while cooking the sauce.
• Using fresh tomatoes instead of canned can give a brighter flavor; simply blend them into a puree before adding them to the skillet.

Variations and Customizations

• Substitute the chicken with paneer for a vegetarian version, or use chickpeas for a protein-packed alternative.
• For a lighter version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• Add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition and variety.
• Try adding cashew cream or blended soaked cashews for a richer texture and flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers is simple! Allow the Butter Chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream if it seems too thick. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQ

Can I make Butter Chicken in advance?

Absolutely! Butter Chicken can be made ahead of time and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it before serving.

Is Butter Chicken spicy?

The level of spice can be adjusted based on your taste. By adding or omitting the chili powder, you can make it as mild or as spicy as you prefer!

What should I serve with Butter Chicken?

Traditional accompaniments include naan bread, steamed basmati rice, or even a side salad. Feel free to get creative with sides that you love!

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

While it’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it reaches the proper internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

This Butter Chicken recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re preparing it for a lavish dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, it’s sure to impress everyone. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, each bite is an invitation to savor the wonders of Indian cuisine. Don’t wait any longer—gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s get cooking!

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