Exquisite butter chicken recipe tender, marinated chicken in a velvety tomato sauce spiced with garam masala. Simple, authentic, and utterly tasty. Butter Chicken is an undying Indian authentic recipe that embodies the suitable balance among rich, buttery sauce and smooth, nicely spiced chicken. This dish brings delight of domestic cooking proper to your palate.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- Chicken: 500 grams boneless chicken
- Yogurt: half of cup undeniable yogurt
- Ginger Garlic Paste: 1 tablespoon
- Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric Powder: half of teaspoon
- Garam Masala or Chicken Masala: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: to flavor
For the Butter Chicken Sauce:
- Butter: three–four tablespoons
- Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Ginger Garlic Paste: 1 teaspoon
- Tomato Puree: 400 grams (or approximately 1 ½ cups)
- Cashew Paste: 2 tablespoons (optionally available, for extra creaminess; blend soaked cashews with a touch water)
- Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Kashmiri Red Chili Powder: half of teaspoon (non-compulsory, for that vibrant colour)
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: to taste
- Fresh Cream: 1/2 cup
- Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves): 1 teaspoon, lightly crushed
- Water: as required
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
- Mix: In a bowl, integrate the chicken portions with yogurt, ginger garlic paste, purple chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, and salt.
- Marinate: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours (marinating for a whole day will improve the flavors even greater).
2. Prepare the Sauce
- Sauté Onions: In a deep pan or heavy-bottomed skillet, heat the butter (and oil, if the usage of) over medium warmth. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn soft and golden.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in 1 teaspoon of ginger garlic paste and cook dinner for about a minute till aromatic.
- Incorporate Tomatoes: Pour in the tomato puree and let it simmer for five–7 mins, till the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
- Boost the Creaminess: If using, add the cashew paste and simmer for any other 2 mins.
- Season: Sprinkle inside the pink chili powder, Kashmiri crimson chili powder, sugar, and additional salt as wished. Adjust in step with your flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken
- Combine: Add the marinated bird portions to the simmering sauce. Stir well in order that every piece gets lined.
- Simmer: Cover and cook dinner on medium-low warmth for about 15–20 mins till the chicken is soft and absolutely cooked. Stir occasionally, and if the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water to reap your favored consistency.
4. Final Touches
- Cream It Up: Lower the heat, then stir in the sparkling cream to give the sauce that signature, pricey texture.
- Enhance the Flavor: Sprinkle in the crushed Kasuri methi for a real flavor enhancer. Let it simmer gently for some other 2–three mins.
- Taste & Adjust: Check the seasoning and regulate the salt or spices if essential.
5. Serve
- Garnish: Drizzle a touch greater cream on pinnacle and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
- Pair: Serve your butter chicken warm with butter garlic naan or rice
Tips & Variations
- Extra Depth: For added smoky flavor, grill the marinated chicken for a couple of minutes before adding it to the sauce.
- Spice Control: Modify the quantity of red chili powder to suit your heat preference.
- Vegan Option: Replace chicken with tofu or cauliflower and swap dairy cream with coconut cream for a delicious vegan twist.
Conclusion
This butter chicken recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that transports you to a world of aromas, flavors, and heartwarming comfort. Perfect for special occasions or any day you crave a little extra indulgence; this dish lets you enjoy the magic of Indian cuisine in your own kitchen. Enjoy creating and savoring every bite of this creamy, delicious classic!
Happy cooking!
