Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is a popular Indian dish that has gained worldwide recognition for its rich, creamy, and spicy taste. In this blog, we’ll delve into the origin of Butter Chicken, its history, and everything you need to know about it. We’ll also provide you with a simple and authentic recipe to try out at home, as well as answers to some frequently asked questions about this delicious dish.

Origin and History of Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani in Hindi, originated in the 1950s in the kitchens of Moti Mahal, a famous restaurant in Delhi, India. The dish was created by the restaurant’s founder, Kundan Lal Gujral, who had the idea of cooking leftover tandoori chicken in a tomato-based gravy with added butter and cream. This resulted in a rich, creamy and flavorful dish that became an instant hit with customers.

The popularity of Butter Chicken spread beyond Delhi, and it soon became a favorite among people all over India. Today, it is a staple in Indian restaurants worldwide and is loved for its perfect blend of spices and creaminess.

Everything to Know About Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken is a curry made with boneless chicken that is marinated in spices, yogurt, and lemon juice before being cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce. The sauce is made with tomatoes, cream, butter, and a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The chicken is usually cooked in a tandoor (a traditional Indian clay oven) before being added to the sauce, but it can also be cooked in a regular oven or on a stovetop.

Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different preferences. It can be made mild or spicy, depending on the level of heat desired. Vegetables such as peas and carrots can also be added to the dish to make it more wholesome.

Ingredients: Butter Chicken is made with boneless chicken that is marinated in yogurt and spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The chicken is then grilled or roasted and added to a creamy tomato-based sauce made with butter, cream, and spices.

Flavor: The combination of the rich and creamy sauce with the tender chicken and aromatic spices gives Butter Chicken its unique and delicious taste. The dish is not too spicy and has a slightly sweet flavor from the addition of sugar or honey in some recipes.

Preparation: Butter Chicken can be made in a variety of ways, but the most popular method involves marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices for several hours. The chicken is then grilled or roasted, and added to a sauce made with tomatoes, butter, cream, and spices.

Nutrition: It is a high-calorie dish due to the addition of butter and cream. However, it also contains protein from the chicken and some vitamins and minerals from the spices and tomatoes used in the sauce.

Simple Butter Chicken Recipe

Here’s a simple recipe for making Butter Chicken at home:

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless chicken, cut into cubes
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons garam masala
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons butter
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides.
Add the diced tomatoes and their juices to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir to combine. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
Serve hot with rice or naan.

Indian Butter Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup tomato paste
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tbsp butter
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp grated ginger
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

In a bowl, combine the chicken, yogurt, and spices. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
In a large skillet, heat the oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute.
Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the tomato paste and cream and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Serve over rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Creamy Butter Chicken Recipe

Creamy butter chicken is a variation of traditional butter chicken that adds a rich and creamy texture to the dish. The creaminess comes from the addition of heavy cream or coconut cream. To make creamy butter chicken, start with cooking the chicken in a mixture of butter, garlic, and spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Once the chicken is cooked, add a tomato-based sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes. Then, add the heavy cream or coconut cream and stir until the sauce becomes thick and creamy. Serve the creamy butter chicken with rice or naan bread.

Butter Chicken Sauce Recipe

The butter chicken sauce is the heart of the dish and is responsible for the signature flavor of butter chicken. The sauce is typically made with a mixture of tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. To make the sauce, start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in butter until they become soft and fragrant. Then, add the spices and cook for a few more minutes. Add canned tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for at least 15 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens. Finally, blend the sauce until it becomes smooth and silky.

Health benefits and Nutritional Values

Here are some of the health benefits and nutritional values of butter chicken:

Protein: This is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Chicken is one of the best sources of lean protein, and it is the main ingredient in the dish. One serving of this dish contains around 30 grams of protein.
Vitamins and Minerals: It also contains a variety of vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. Chicken is rich in B vitamins, which are important for energy production, and it also contains minerals like zinc, which is essential for immune function and wound healing.
Good fats: Although this dish contains butter and cream, it is not necessarily bad for you. These ingredients are high in saturated fat, but they also contain healthy fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Antioxidants: It is also a good source of antioxidants, which are important for protecting the body against damage from free radicals. Some of the ingredients in this dish, like turmeric and ginger, are rich in antioxidants.
Digestive health: Some of the spices used in this dish, like ginger and garlic, can help improve digestion and reduce inflammation in the gut. This can lead to improved digestive health and a reduced risk of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

It is important to note that this dish should be consumed in moderation as it is also high in calories and fat. However, it can be a healthy part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation and as part of a healthy meal plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is butter chicken spicy?

Yes, It can be made with varying levels of spice. Some recipes call for a mild heat level, while others are quite spicy. It ultimately depends on the individual recipe and personal preference.

Can I make butter chicken with tofu or paneer instead of chicken?

Yes, they can be made with tofu or paneer for a vegetarian version of the dish.

Can I freeze leftover butter chicken?

Yes, it can be frozen for later consumption. It is recommended to freeze it in an airtight container and to consume it within three months.

Is butter chicken gluten-free?

Most traditional butter chicken recipes are gluten-free, but it is important to check the ingredients of any pre-made sauces or spice blends to ensure they do not contain gluten.

Can I make butter chicken without cream?

Yes, it is possible to make it without cream by using alternative ingredients such as coconut milk or cashew cream.

What is the difference between butter chicken and chicken tikka masala?

They are both popular Indian dishes, but they differ in terms of their origins and preparation. It is believed to have originated in the 1950s in Delhi, while chicken tikka masala is thought to have been created in the UK in the 1960s. Typically, it is made with a tomato-based sauce that includes butter, cream, and spices, while chicken tikka masala is made with a spicier tomato-based sauce and typically includes yogurt and garam masala.

Conclusion

This is a delicious and creamy Indian dish that has a rich history and has become popular worldwide. Whether you prefer a simple and authentic recipe or a more elaborate version with added spices and flavors, there are many ways to enjoy this delectable dish. Just remember to consume it in moderation due to its high-calorie content, and you can indulge in the rich flavors and aromatic spices that make this dish so irresistible.