Butter chicken is a popular Indian dish known for its rich and creamy tomato-based gravy and tender pieces of chicken. It is a flavorful and satisfying meal that is loved by people all over the world. In this article, we will explore the steps to prepare a mouthwatering butter chicken recipe at home. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
To prepare butter chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 500 grams boneless chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnishing
Marinade Preparation
To begin, let's prepare the marinade for the chicken:
- In a bowl, combine the plain yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, ground cumin, and salt.
- Mix well to form a smooth paste.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat them thoroughly.
- Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. For better flavor, you can marinate it overnight in the refrigerator.
Chicken Preparation
After the chicken has marinated, follow these steps:
- Heat the butter and oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Now, add the pureed tomatoes and cook for a few minutes until the oil separates from the mixture.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the marinated chicken along with the marinade.
- Stir well and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Making the Sauce
Next, we'll create the creamy sauce for the butter chicken:
- Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the heavy cream and mix it gently.
- Add kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) to enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Simmer the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Cooking the Chicken
In this step, we'll give the chicken a final touch:
- If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can grill the cooked chicken pieces on a hot grill or roast them in the oven for a few minutes.
- Once done, add the grilled chicken to the simmering sauce.
- Stir gently to coat the chicken with the creamy gravy.
- Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving and Garnishing
Now that the butter chicken is ready, let's serve it with style:
- Transfer the butter chicken to a serving dish.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves to add a burst of freshness.
- Serve it hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations
Here are some additional tips and variations to enhance your butter chicken recipe:
- For a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken or substitute it with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) for a vegetarian version.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili powder according to your taste preferences.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of cashew paste to the sauce while simmering.
- Experiment with different spices and herbs like cardamom, cinnamon, or coriander to customize the taste according to your liking.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about butter chicken:
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but the cooking time may vary. Ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.
How long can I store leftover butter chicken?
You can refrigerate leftover butter chicken for up to 2-3 days in an airtight container. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze butter chicken?
Yes, butter chicken can be frozen. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
What can I serve with butter chicken?
Butter chicken pairs well with naan bread, roti, steamed rice, or even pulao (flavored rice).
Is butter chicken spicy?
The spiciness of butter chicken can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. You can make it mild or spicy by altering the amount of red chili powder.
Conclusion
Butter chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and aromatic spices. With this recipe, you can easily recreate this beloved Indian classic at home. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a delicious meal, butter chicken is sure to satisfy your taste buds. So, put on your apron and give this recipe a try. Get ready to indulge in a truly mouthwatering culinary experience!