Butter Chicken Dish: A Delicious Recipe to Savor and Enjoy

Butter chicken dish is a beloved classic that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers around the world. Originating from the vibrant streets of Delhi, this dish has a rich history that dates back to the 1950s when it was created by the chefs at the Moti Mahal restaurant. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and indulgent.

What I adore about the butter chicken dish is its perfect balance of taste and texture; the velvety sauce clings to the juicy pieces of chicken, making every bite a delightful experience. It’s no wonder that this dish has become a staple in many households, offering convenience without compromising on flavor. Whether served with fluffy naan or fragrant basmati rice, the butter chicken dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Join me as we explore this culinary gem and learn how to recreate it in your own kitchen!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Marinade:
• 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• For the Butter Chicken Sauce:
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken Marinade

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Mix well until all the spices are evenly distributed.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken and makes it tender.

Cooking the Chicken

1. After marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Spread the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges. You can also grill the chicken on a barbecue for a smoky flavor.
3. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and set aside. You can also chop it into smaller pieces if desired.

Preparing the Butter Chicken Sauce

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. After the sauce has simmered, add the heavy cream, sugar (if using), garam masala, ground cumin, and salt. Stir to combine and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes. The sauce should be creamy and rich.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

1. Once the sauce is ready, add the baked chicken pieces to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the chicken in the sauce, ensuring every piece is covered.
2. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb some of the sauce’s flavors.
3. Before serving, taste the butter chicken and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, sugar, or spices according to your preference.

Serving the Butter Chicken

1. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the butter chicken to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
3. Serve the butter chicken hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the rice or bread, making it a comforting meal.
   

   Conclusion:

   In summary, this butter chicken recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that will transport your taste buds straight to India. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a luscious tomato-based sauce, infused with aromatic spices, creates a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing your butter chicken with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up every last drop of that delectable sauce. You can also add a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the richness of the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with variations by adding a splash of coconut milk for extra creaminess or tossing in some spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. I encourage you to give this butter chicken recipe a try and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any personal twists you add to the dish. I would love to hear how it turns out for you, and I’m sure your friends and family will be asking for seconds. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delightful meal that will leave everyone asking for the recipe!
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   Butter Chicken Dish: A Delicious Recipe to Savor and Enjoy

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   • Author: Dottie
   • Total Time: 90 minutes
   • Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

   Print Recipe

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   Description

   Indulge in rich and creamy Butter Chicken, featuring tender marinated chicken thighs simmered in a luscious tomato and cream sauce. Perfectly spiced and garnished with fresh cilantro, this dish is a delightful addition to any dinner table.

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   Ingredients

   Scale 1x2x3x

   • 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
   • 1 cup plain yogurt
   • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
   • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
   • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
   • 1 teaspoon garam masala
   • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
   • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
   • Salt to taste
   • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
   • 1 large onion, finely chopped
   • 4 cloves garlic, minced
   • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
   • 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
   • 1 cup heavy cream
   • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
   • 1 teaspoon garam masala
   • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
   • Salt to taste
   • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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   Instructions

   1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric powder, chili powder, and salt. Mix well until all the spices are evenly distributed.
   2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight.
   3. After marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
   4. Spread the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges. Alternatively, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
   5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and set aside.
   6. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
   7. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the skillet, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   8. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
   9. After the sauce has simmered, add the heavy cream, sugar (if using), garam masala, ground cumin, and salt. Stir to combine and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
   10. Once the sauce is ready, add the baked chicken pieces to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the chicken in the sauce.
   11. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
   12. Before serving, taste the butter chicken and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
   13. Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the butter chicken to a serving dish.
   14. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
   15. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti.

   Notes

   • For a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili powder in the marinade.
   • This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.

   • Prep Time: 60 minutes
   • Cook Time: 30 minutes