Indulge your taste buds in a culinary journey to India with the irresistible Murgh Makhani Butter Chicken! This creamy, flavorful dish is a beloved classic that combines succulent chicken marinated in aromatic spices with a luscious tomato-based sauce. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, this recipe promises to impress. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into the secrets of making the perfect Butter Chicken!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup yogurt
- 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, 1 teaspoon garam masala, cumin, coriander, and salt. Mix thoroughly to create a marinade.
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is completely coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Remove marinated chicken from refrigerator and let it come to room temperature.
- Place marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred at edges.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add remaining garam masala and sauté for 30 seconds to release aromatic oils.
- Pour in tomato puree and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add heavy cream to the tomato sauce, stirring continuously to create a smooth, rich gravy. Reduce heat to low.
- Gently add baked chicken pieces to the creamy sauce, coating each piece evenly. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. The sauce should be creamy, slightly tangy, and rich.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of cream. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or naan bread.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply, making the chicken incredibly flavorful and tender.
- Achieve the Perfect Bake: Preheat your oven properly and ensure the chicken is spread out evenly on the baking sheet. This helps achieve a nice char, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Balance the Sauce: When adding heavy cream to the tomato puree, stir continuously to ensure a smooth consistency. Adjust the seasoning to your taste; a touch more salt or cream can elevate the dish further.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t skip the finishing touches! A sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a drizzle of cream not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a fresh burst of flavor.
- Pair it Right: Serve your Butter Chicken with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread to soak up that delicious sauce. The combination will transport you straight to the heart of India!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
