How to Cook Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani): A Rich and Creamy Culinary Masterpiece

Origin of Butter Chicken (Murg Makhani)

Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, originated in India in the 1950s. Legend has it that it was invented by Kundan Lal Gujral, the founder of the Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi. This dish is the result of an improvisation using leftover tandoori chicken and cooking it in a rich, buttery tomato sauce. Its velvety texture and harmonious blend of spices quickly made it extremely popular, and butter chicken became a popular staple of Indian cuisine at home and abroad.

What is Butter Chicken (Murug Makhani)?

Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh His Makhani, is a popular North Indian dish known for its rich and creamy texture. Juicy, tender chicken is marinated in a mixture of aromatic spices and yogurt, then cooked in a velvety tomato sauce with plenty of butter and cream. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that combines the warmth of spice with the fun of dairy to create comforting and delicious dishes. Butter chicken is often served with naan or rice and is a popular dish around the world.

The ingredients list for Butter Chicken (Murg Makhani) is as follows:

• For marinating the chicken:
  • • 500 grams boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • • Salt (to taste)
  • • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• For the sauce:
  • • 2 tablespoons butter
  • • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • • 1 cup tomato puree
  • • 1 cream Cup
  • • Salt (to taste)
  • • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional to balance the acidity)
  • • Fresh coriander (coriander leaves) for garnish
• For garnish (optional):
  • • Fresh cream
  • • Almonds sliced ​​or cashew nuts
  • • Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• Alternatives:
  • • You can also use Greek yogurt or quark instead of regular yogurt.
  • • You can also use canned crushed tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes.
  • • If you don’t have garam masala, you can substitute it by mixing equal parts of cumin, coriander, and cardamom.
  • • You can also use clarified butter (ghee) instead of regular butter.

Kitchen tools and equipment: Butter Chicken (Murg Makhani):

• 1. Cooking Utensils:
  • • Large frying pan or frying pan
  • • Pot
• 2. Cutting and Chopping:
  • • Chef Knife
  • • Cutting Board
• 3. Mixing and Marinating:
  • • Mixing Bowl
  • • Whisk or Fork
  • • Marinating Wrap or Aluminum Foil
• 4. Cooking Utensils:
  • • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • • Tongs
• 5. Grinding/mixing:
  • • Blender or food processor (for tomato sauce preparation)
• 6. Measuring tools:
  • • Measuring cups and measuring spoons
• 7. Garlic Press:
  • – Easily mince garlic for marinades and sauces.
• 8. Grater:
  • • Used to grate ginger, often used in butter chicken.
• 9. Lemon Squeezer:
  • • Extracts fresh lemon juice.
• 10. Cooking oil:
  • • Cooking oil for frying and frying
• 11. Spices and seasonings:
  • • Whole spices (bay leaves, cardamom pods, cloves)
  • • Ground spices, such as garam masala, cumin, coriander, and turmeric
  • • Salt and Pepper
• 12. Dairy Products:
  • • Butter
  • • Cream
• 13. Protein:
  • • Chicken (boneless, skinless thighs or breasts)
• 14. Tomato base ingredients:
  • • Fresh or canned crushed tomatoes
  • • Tomato paste
• 15. Onions and garlic:
  • • Chopped onions and minced garlic for base
• 16. Garnish:
  • • Fresh coriander for garnish leaves
• 17. Serving plate:
  • • Serving platter or plate
• 18. Rice or bread:
  • • Cooked rice or naan to serve with butter chicken

Butter Chicken (Murug Makhani) Cooking Instructions:

• Preparation:
  • 1. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, ginger garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Make sure the chicken is properly coated before adding it. Let it marinate for at least two hours or overnight in the fridge.
• Cooking method:
  • 1. Preheat the oven: If using an oven, preheat to 200°C (400°F).
  • 2. Cook the marinade for the chicken.
  • • Fill a big skillet with vegetable oil, and place it over medium heat. Fry the marinated chicken until cooked through and lightly browned. Set aside.
  • 3. Prepare the sauce:
    • • In the same frying pan, add 2 tablespoons of butter and fry the chopped onion until golden brown.
    • • Include the ground coriander, cumin, and garam masala. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
    • • Stir in the tomato puree and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
    • • Add the cooked chicken to the sauce, making sure to coat each piece.
  • 4. Bring to a boil and add cream:
    • Simmer for ten to fifteen minutes over low heat to let the flavors mingle.
    • • Add the cream and remaining butter, stirring constantly until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
  • 5. Optional oven finish:
    • • If not using a pot, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish. Bake in the preheated oven for an additional 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
  • 6. Serve:
    • • Garnish with chopped fresh coriander before serving.
• Key points:
  • • For the best flavor, make sure the chicken is fully marinated.
  • • Adjust the amount of spices to your taste.
  • • Be careful about the thickness of the sauce. You can add water if it’s too thick.
  • • To keep the chicken tender, do not overcook the chicken.

Butter chicken Delicious combinations:

• 1. Steamed Basmati Rice:
  • • A classic combination: fluffy, aromatic basmati rice complements the creamy, buttery consistency of the chicken.
• 2. Naan:
  • • Soft and mellow naan is perfect for absorbing creamy curry sauce. Garlic naan or plain naan go well with butter chicken.
• 3. Pulao:
• • This aromatic rice dish with vegetables and herbs contrasts beautifully with the rich flavor of butter chicken.
• 4. Roti or Chapati:
  • • These wholemeal flatbreads are a healthier alternative to naan bread and balance out a delicious chicken curry.
• 5. Cucumber Raita:
  • • A refreshing cucumber raita enhances the richness of a dish and brings a cool, spicy aroma.
• 6. Saag Paneer:
  • • Saag paneer (spinach and Indian cheese) adds extra flavor and texture to your meal.
• 7. Pickled Onions:
  • • Spicy, slightly spicy pickled onions serve as a flavorful garnish for creamy chicken.
• 8. Mixed Vegetable Salad:
  • • A light and colorful salad of cucumbers, tomatoes and onions provides a refreshing contrast to the rich butter chicken.
• 9. Mango Chutney:
  • • Sweet and tangy, mango chutney is a delicious condiment that enhances the entire dining experience.
• 10. Cilantro Lime Rice:
  • • Season the rice with fresh cilantro and lime juice, adding a hint of lemon and herbs that pairs well with the flavor of butter chicken.
• 11. Tandoori Roti:
  • • Tandoori roti baked in a stone oven has a slightly crunchy texture on the outside that goes well with creamy butter chicken.
• 12. Yogurt-based Dishes:
  • • Dishes like cucumber raita, mint yogurt, and plain yogurt can provide a cooling sensation and balance out the richness of chicken.
• 13. Lemon Wedges:
  • • Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon over the butter chicken for an added lemony refreshing touch.
• 14. Papadums:
  • • Crispy, thin lentil wafers or papadums can add a delicious bite to your meal.
• 15. Spiced Basmati Rice:
  • • Add whole spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon to basmati rice for an aromatic and spicy version.
• 16. Chana Masala:
  • • Chickpea curry with aromatic spices makes a great vegetarian side dish to complement butter chicken.
• 17. Coconut Rice:
  • • Fragrant coconut rice provides a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs well with the creamy, savory aroma of butter chicken.
• 18. Mint Chutney:
  • • Mint chutney provides a refreshing, spicy contrast to rich chicken.
• 19. Coriander Chutney (Coriander):
  • • Tangy coriander chutney adds a herbal flavor to the entire meal.
• 20. Indian Pickles:
  • • A variety of Indian pickles, such as mango pickles and mixed vegetable pickles, can add spice and spice to your meals.
• 21. Cashew Nut Pilaf:
  • • A savory rice pilaf with toasted cashews adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the creamy texture of butter chicken.
• 22. Mint Cucumber Salad:
  • • Mix cucumber slices with fresh mint leaves and drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side salad.
• 23. Sweet Lassi:
  • • A sweet and cool yogurt-based drink, Sweet Lassi provides a pleasant contrast to the spices of butter chicken.
• 24. Jeera Rice:
  • • The rich and aromatic butter chicken curry goes well with the fragrant cumin flavored rice.
• 25. Indian Coleslaw:
  • • Create a crunchy coleslaw with a twist and add depth with Indian spices and mustard.
• 26. Cauliflower Rice:
  • • As a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works surprisingly well, absorbing the flavor of butter chicken while providing a light base.
• 27. Garlic Herb Naan:
  • • Garlic and herbs are added to naan to enhance the aroma and flavor of butter chicken.
• 28. Tamarind Chutney:
  • • The sweet and spicy taste of tamarind chutney can add a unique dimension to the overall flavor profile of a meal.
• 29. Yogurt Parfait:
  • • A simple yogurt parfait with layers of fresh fruit and granola serves as a light and sweet end to a meal.
• 30. Tomato and Onion Raita:
  • • Diced tomato and onion raita provides a refreshing crunch and acidity that balances the richness of butter chicken.

Butter Chicken (Murug Makhani) Cooking Tips:

• 1. Marinate to enhance flavor: Marinate chicken in yogurt and spices for at least a few hours, and sometimes overnight, to enhance flavor. This step not only adds flavor to the meat, but also makes it more tender.
• 2. Perfectly Cooked Chicken: When cooking marinated chicken, be careful not to overcook it. This recipe calls for juicy, flavorful chicken thighs. If using chicken breasts, reduce cooking time to avoid drying.
• 3. High-quality ingredients: Use high-quality tomatoes, preferably ripe and aromatic. Tomatoes are the base of curry, and their flavor has a big impact on the final product.
• 4. Balance the amount of spices: Adjust the amount of spices to your preference. If you like it spicier, increase the amount of red chili pepper or add chopped green chili pepper. For a milder version, reduce the amount of spices.
• 5. Creamy consistency: Mix the tomato and onion sauce well after cooking to achieve a creamy consistency. This process creates a smooth, restaurant-like texture.
• 6. Cashew Alternatives: If you have a nut allergy or prefer an alternative, use blanched almonds or unsalted roasted sunflower seeds instead of cashews to maintain the creaminess of your curry. can.
• 7. Dietary Restrictions: For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt in the marinade. You can also replace the cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
• 8. Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a pinch of chopped fresh cilantro or mint on the plate. Not only is it brightly colored, but it also has a refreshing taste that brings out the richness of the dish.
• 9. Serve with suitable side dishes: Butter chicken goes well with a variety of side dishes, such as naan bread, basmati rice, or even quinoa for a healthy option. Don’t forget to add some cucumber raita or a squeeze of fresh lemon to balance the flavors.
• 10. Reheating Tip: When reheating leftover butter chicken, add a little water or cream to maintain a creamy consistency. Cooking slowly over low heat prevents overcooking and keeps the chicken tender.

Butter Chicken (Murg Makhani) Serving Suggestions:

• Presentation:
  • 1. Plate Arrangement:
    • • Place a generous amount of butter chicken in the center of a warm plate.
    • • Make sure the creamy tomato sauce is evenly distributed over the juicy chicken.
  • 2. Garnish:
    • • Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro (cilantro) or parsley over the butter chicken for added color and freshness.
    • • Optionally, you can drizzle a little cream on top if you’re looking for a particularly luxurious touch.
  • 3. Accompaniments:
    • • Serve butter chicken with aromatic basmati rice or warm, fluffy naan bread. The rice soaks up the rich sauce, and the naan is delicious to the last bite.
  • 4. Lemon Wedges:
    • • Adding lemon wedges as a side dish gives your guests a lemony twist to butter chicken that improves the overall flavor.
  • 5. Side Options:
    • • Consider pairing butter chicken with traditional Indian sides like cucumber raita or cooling mint chutney. These spices provide a refreshing contrast to a rich and aromatic main course.
  • 6. Fresh Vegetables:
    • • Serve with lightly steamed or sautéed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or green beans, for a balance of texture and nutrition.
  • 7. Serving Bowls:
    • • When serving a large group, place the butter chicken in a decorative serving bowl so guests can serve themselves. This communal style adds a sociable element to the dining experience.
  • 8. Pairing:
    • • Pair butter chicken with a crisp light white wine or refreshing mango lassi to bring out the complex flavors of the dish.

Storage and Leftover Butter Chicken (Murg Makhani):

• Storage:
  • 1. Refrigeration: Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure it has cooled to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator.
  • 2.Timing: To ensure freshness and safety, leftovers should be consumed within 2-3 days.
  • 3. Freezing: Butter chicken can also be frozen for long-term storage. Divide into separate containers or use large airtight freezer bags. Put the date on it so you can easily track it.
  • 4. Avoid delays: Refrigerate or freeze meal leftovers immediately to prevent bacterial growth.
• Reheating:
  • 1. Stovetop:
    • Reheating butter chicken on the stovetop will give you the best results.
    • Place in a pot and reheat over medium heat.
    • • Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
    • • If the sauce thickens during storage, add water or cream.
  • 2. Microwave:
    • • Place butter chicken in a microwave-safe bowl.
    • • Cover with a microwave-safe lid or use vented microwave-safe plastic wrap.
    • • Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally to avoid uneven heating.
    • • The chicken can dry out if it is overcooked, so take caution.
  • 3. Oven:
    • • If you want to reheat larger portions, use an oven-safe dish.
    • • Preheat the oven to low temperature (approximately 150°C).
    • • Cover the mold with aluminum foil to keep it moist.
    • • Cook, stirring from time to time, until temperature is attained.
• Note:
  • 1. Thickness of sauce: Depending on the storage method, the sauce may become thick. When heating, adjust the concentration with a small amount of water, chicken broth, fresh cream, etc.
  • 2. Chicken tenderness: To maintain chicken tenderness, avoid prolonged reheating. A gentle, gradual warm-up method is most effective.
  • 3. Check the temperature: Make sure the reheated butter chicken reaches a safe temperature of 74°C (165°F) to kill bacteria.

Nutrition information for Butter Chicken (approximately per serving):

• • Calories: 400-600 kcal
• • Fat: 25-40 g
• • Saturated fat: 10-20 g
• • Protein: 20-30 g
• • Carbohydrates: 20 – 30 g
• • Sugar: 5-10 g
• • Fiber: 2-5 g
• Note: Nutritional values ​​may vary depending on recipe and serving sizes.

Here are some variations of the classic butter chicken recipe (Murgh Makhani).

• 1. Healthy version:
  • • For a lighter version, cream can be replaced with Greek yogurt.
  • • Instead of using chicken thighs, use skinless, boneless breasts.
  • • Replace the butter with a little olive oil.
• 2. Vegetarian options:
  • • You may substitute tofu or paneer, an Indian cottage cheese, for the chicken.
  • • For a vegetarian twist, consider adding mixed vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, and carrots.
• 3. Spicy Kick:
  • • For a spicier taste, increase the amount of red chili pepper or add chopped fresh green chili.
  • • Add a teaspoon of garam masala for an extra boost.
• 4. Coconut Infusion:
  • • For a subtle coconut flavor, add coconut milk or cream to the sauce.
  • • Garnish with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical feel.
• 5. For a nutty flavor:
  • • For a nuttier flavor, mix in a few tablespoons of almond or cashew butter.
  • • Garnish with chopped nuts such as almonds or cashews for added texture.
• 6. Mango Magic:
  • • Add mango puree to the sauce for a fruity, sweet flavor.
  • • Consider adding diced fresh mango as a side dish.
• 7. Infused with Herbs:
  • • For a touch of freshness, stir in a handful of chopped fresh coriander or mint leaves just before serving.
  • • For a unique flavor, try other herbs like basil or parsley.
• 8. Whole Spice Experience:
  • • Adding whole spices like cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, and cloves during the cooking process will give you a more flavorful dish.
  • • Remove all spices before serving.
• 9. Lemon Zest Lift:
  • • Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to marinades or sauces for lemon flavor.
  • • Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the finished dish to add brightness.
• 10. Smoky Twist:
  • • Add a pinch of smoked paprika or use a charcoal grill to give chicken a smoky flavor.
• 11. Fruity Fusion:
  • • Add diced pineapple or apricots for a sweet, fruity touch.
  • • A touch of lime juice balances the sweetness and creates a nice contrast.
• 12. Yogurt Marinade:
  • • Marinate chicken with a mixture of yogurt, garlic and ginger for a flavorful and tender result.
  • • To get the right consistency, change the quantity of yogurt.
• 13. One-Pot Wonder:
  • • Add cooked rice or quinoa directly to the simmering sauce to turn the dish into a one-pot meal.
  • • Make sure there is enough liquid to cook the grains completely.
• 14. Mustard Infusion:
  • • For a unique, slightly spicy taste, add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce.
  • • Garnish with fresh mustard greens for added depth.
• 15. Crispy Crunch:
  • • Sprinkle marinated chicken with crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs before cooking to give it a crispy texture.
  • • Bake or air fry for a healthier alternative to frying.
• 16. Tomato Basil Twist:
  • • Add fresh cherry tomatoes and basil leaves to the sauce for added freshness.
  • • If you want to add a little tartness, drizzle a little balsamic glaze on top.
• 17. Cauliflower Makeover:
  • • Replace some or all of the chicken with cauliflower florets for a vegetarian or low-calorie option.
  • • Roast the cauliflower before adding it to the sauce for better flavor.
• 18． Minty Madness:
  • • Add minty flavor to your dishes by adding 1 teaspoon of mint sauce or chopped fresh mint leaves.
  • • Serve with mint chutney for extra flavor.
• 19. Honey Glaze:
  • • To give the sauce a hint of sweetness, stir in one tablespoon of honey.
  • • This variation pairs well with a touch of Dijon mustard for a balanced flavor profile.
• 20. Green Curry Fusion:
  • • Add green curry paste for a bright and flavorful touch.
  • • Season to taste and garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.
• 21. Saffron Elegance:
  • • Add a few sprigs of saffron to add class to your sauce.
  • • Soaking saffron in warm milk before adding it gives it a rich and aromatic taste.
• 22. Pesto Perfection:
  • • For a Mediterranean twist, stir a spoonful of basil pesto into the sauce.
  • • Garnish with pine nuts and fresh basil for extra flavor.
• 23. Tandoori Fusion:
  • • Marinate chicken in tandoori spice blend before cooking to create a smoky, aromatic profile.
  • • Serve with mint yogurt sauce to complete the essence of tandoori.
• 24. Wine Infusion Fun:
  • • After sautéing onions, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine for a sophisticated touch.
  • • Choose a dry white wine to enhance the overall depth of the dish.
• 25. Maple Glazed Magic:
  • • For a subtle sweetness, substitute 1 tablespoon of maple syrup for the sugar.
  • • Add a pinch of toasted sesame seeds to this version for extra crunch.
• 26. Quinoa Power Bowl:
  • • Serve butter chicken over cooked quinoa for a high-protein, gluten-free alternative.
  • • Top with chopped coriander and a squeeze of lime for extra brightness.
• 27. Sun-dried Tomato Surprise:
  • • Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce to concentrate the flavor.
  • • This variation goes perfectly with feta crumbles as a finishing touch.
• 28. Berries and Balsamic:
  • • Add a handful of fresh berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, to the sauce for a sweet and tart contrast.
  • • For a gourmet touch, drizzle with balsamic vinegar just before serving.
• 29. Mushroom Mix:
  • • Elevate your dishes by mixing in sautéed mushrooms such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms.
  • • The earthy flavor of mushrooms brings out the richness of butter chicken sauce.
• 30. Lentil Love:
  • • Add cooked lentils for more protein and heartier texture.
  • • Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a little vegetable or chicken broth, if necessary.

Butter Chicken (Murg Makhani) Recipe Notes:

• 1. Origin and Cultural Significance: Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a popular Indian dish that originated in Delhi in the 1950s. It is believed to have been invented by Kundan Lal Gujral, the founder of Moti Mahal Restaurant. This dish is now an essential part of Indian cuisine and is very popular all over the world due to its rich and aromatic taste.
• 2. The magic of marinating: Marinating chicken in a mixture of yogurt, spices and lemon juice is very important to preserve flavor and tenderness. For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 to 4 hours or overnight.
• 3. Tandoori Twist: For an authentic taste, cook marinated chicken in a tandoor (traditional clay oven) to achieve a smoky flavor. If a tandoor is not available, grilling or baking is a great alternative.
• 4. Tomato Seasoning: Tomato-based curry adds delicious spice to dishes. Ripe tomatoes add sweetness, and you can also add a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity.
• 5. Creamy Delights: Adding cream gives butter chicken its unique velvety texture. For a lighter version, you can use yogurt or coconut milk, but creaminess is the key to this dish’s appeal.
• 6. Fenugreek finish: The final touch of crushed fenugreek leaves (Kasuri methi) gives it a unique aroma and taste. Crush the leaves in your palms before adding them to the curry to maximize the aroma.
• 7. Adjust Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your liking. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red chili pepper, or conversely, reduce it for a milder version.
• 8. Side dish: Butter chicken goes well with various Indian breads such as naan and roti, and is also delicious with rice or pilaf. Garnish with fresh cilantro to add color and freshness.
• 9. Make-ahead tip: Butter chicken often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Consider making ahead for stress-free meals for gatherings and special occasions.
• 10. Served with love: Share the joy of this classic dish with your loved ones. Butter chicken is more than just a meal. It is an experience that brings people together and celebrates the richness of India’s culinary traditions.

FAQ:

• Q1: Why is butter chicken so popular?
• A1: Butter chicken’s popularity is due to its rich, creamy flavor and perfect blend of aromatic spices. A dish that combines juicy marinated chicken and flavorful tomato sauce, allowing you to enjoy a wide range of flavors. Its versatility, enjoyed by both spice lovers and those with mild palates, makes it a popular choice in Indian cuisine.

• Q2: Can I make butter chicken in advance?
• A2: Of course! In fact, preparing butter chicken in advance often improves its flavor. Pre-marinating the chicken and storing it in the refrigerator will help the meat absorb the spices better. Additionally, the sauce can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook the marinated chicken and mix it with the prepared sauce for an easy and delicious meal.

In summary, Butter Chicken (Murgakhani) is a delicious dish with a good balance of tender chicken and rich, velvety tomato he sauce. The perfect blend of aromatic spices creates a symphony of flavors, making it a true Indian classic. With his simple but precise recipes, anyone can embark on a culinary journey of excellence.