Indian Butter Chicken

Indian Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a popular and flavorful dish that originated in the Indian subcontinent. This creamy and aromatic chicken curry has gained immense popularity worldwide for its rich and indulgent flavors. The dish is made with succulent pieces of chicken cooked in a tomato-based gravy, enriched with butter and cream. It is typically served with naan bread or steamed rice, making it a perfect choice for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 500 grams boneless chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Marinating the Chicken:

In a bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth marinade. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat them evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Cooking the Chicken:

Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Preparing the Gravy:

In the same pan, melt the butter and add the tomato puree. Cook for a few minutes until the raw smell of the tomatoes disappears. Add the remaining ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute.

Simmering the Curry:

Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken with the tomato gravy. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning with salt according to your taste.

Serving:

Garnish the Indian Butter Chicken with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve hot with naan bread or steamed rice. Enjoy the creamy and flavorful delight that is sure to tantalize your taste buds!

Indian Butter Chicken is a dish that brings together the richness of spices and the creaminess of the gravy. Its popularity is well-deserved, as it offers a burst of flavors in every bite. Whether you are a fan of Indian cuisine or looking to explore new flavors, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in the deliciousness of Indian Butter Chicken!