Butter chicken, known as murgh makhani in its native India, is a beloved dish that perfectly embodies the rich flavors of Indian cuisine. This creamy, spiced tomato-based curry is not only a favorite in restaurants but also a popular choice for home cooks looking to impress their family and friends. With its tender chicken pieces bathed in a luscious sauce, butter chicken is both comforting and indulgent, making it an excellent option for any occasion. In this guide, we will explore the essential ingredients, detailed cooking instructions, variations of the recipe, and basic nutrition facts, ensuring you can create an authentic yet easy butter chicken at home.

Essential Ingredients for Butter Chicken

To prepare a classic butter chicken, having the right ingredients is crucial. Below is a list of the key ingredients you will need, along with their measurements for a standard recipe serving four people.

• 1 pound (450 grams) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

These ingredients come together to create the rich sauce that is the hallmark of butter chicken, balancing the tanginess of the tomatoes with the creaminess of the butter and heavy cream. The spices add depth and warmth to the dish, making it a favorite among spice enthusiasts.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating a delicious butter chicken is straightforward if you follow these step-by-step instructions. The process may seem long, but the results are well worth the effort.

• Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with yogurt, half of the garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. For best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
• Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces, cooking them until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
• Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onions. Sauté until the onions are golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
• Add the Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, followed by the remaining spices: garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. Cook this mixture for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
• Incorporate the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring well to coat the pieces with the sauce. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes, letting it absorb the flavors.
• Add the Cream: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through and the sauce is creamy and rich. Adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
• Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the pan from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve your butter chicken hot with steamed basmati rice or naan for a complete meal.

Prep Time and Cooking Time

Time management is key when preparing butter chicken, especially if you’re aiming for a weeknight dinner. The total prep time for this dish, including marinating the chicken, is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The cooking time is about 30-40 minutes. Thus, you can expect to spend around 2 hours from start to finish if you include marination. However, if you choose to marinate the chicken overnight, you can significantly reduce hands-on time the next day.

Variations of Butter Chicken

While the classic butter chicken recipe is a favorite, there are numerous variations to explore, allowing you to customize the dish to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. One popular variation is to substitute the chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian option, creating a dish known as paneer makhani or tofu makhani. This alternative maintains the creamy texture and rich flavors while catering to non-meat eaters.

Another delightful variation includes adding vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or spinach, offering additional nutrition and color to the dish. For a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of red chili powder or add fresh green chilies during the cooking process. Moreover, the use of coconut cream instead of heavy cream can provide a unique flavor profile while making the dish dairy-free.

For those who enjoy a smoky flavor, you might consider experimenting with traditional tandoori spices or cooking the chicken in a tandoor or grill before adding it to the sauce. This method infuses the chicken with a delightful char that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Basic Nutrition Facts

Butter chicken is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. A typical serving of butter chicken (about 1 cup) contains approximately:

• Calories: 450-500
• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
• Fat: 30-35 grams
• Saturated Fat: 15-20 grams
• Sodium: 600-800 mg

The high protein content primarily comes from the chicken, making it a filling option for those looking to maintain muscle or support their active lifestyle. However, it is essential to be mindful of the caloric content, especially if served with rice or naan, both of which add additional carbohydrates to the meal.