why make this recipe
Indian Butter Chicken is a beloved dish known for its rich and creamy sauce. It combines tender pieces of chicken cooked in a spiced tomato and butter sauce, making it a favorite for many. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a comforting meal at home. Plus, it’s straightforward to make, even for beginners.
how to make Indian Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- Chicken breast, cubed: 500g
- Lemon juice: 15ml
- Red chili powder: 5g
- Salt: 5g
- Butter: 50g
- Onions, finely chopped: 100g
- Garlic paste: 10g
- Ginger paste: 10g
- Tomato puree: 240g
- Cream: 120ml
- Garam masala: 5g
- Crushed fenugreek leaves: 5g
- Cilantro for garnish
- Yogurt: 120g (for marinade)
- Turmeric: 2g (for marinade)
Directions:
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine all marinade ingredients. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Cook Chicken: Grill the marinated chicken until fully cooked. Set aside.
- Make Sauce: In a large pan, heat butter and sauté onions until translucent. Add garlic and ginger paste, and cook for 1 minute. Add tomato puree, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 10 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add cream, grilled chicken, garam masala, and crushed fenugreek leaves. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with cilantro. Serve hot with naan or rice.
how to serve Indian Butter Chicken
Indian Butter Chicken is delicious when served hot with naan bread or basmati rice. You can also accompany it with a side of raita (yogurt sauce) to balance the spiciness. It makes for a lovely meal whether you’re having family over or enjoying a cozy dinner.
how to store Indian Butter Chicken
If you have leftovers, let the Butter Chicken cool down to room temperature. Then, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
tips to make Indian Butter Chicken
- Marination Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate well.
- Use Good Quality Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and quality butter make a big difference in flavor.
- Adjust Spices: You can adjust the amount of chili powder based on your spice preference.
variation
You can make a vegetarian version of Butter Chicken by replacing chicken with paneer or mixed vegetables. Another option is to add nuts like cashews for added richness to the sauce.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
A1: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
Q2: Is Butter Chicken spicy?
A2: The spice level can be adjusted. Reduce the amount of red chili powder if you prefer a milder taste.
Q3: Can I make Butter Chicken in advance?
A3: Yes, Butter Chicken can be made ahead of time. It usually tastes even better after the flavors meld together overnight in the fridge.
