Ingredients
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- 16 unit cloves garlic
- 4 tsp salt
- 8 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 tsp garam masala
- 8 tsp ground cumin
- 8 tsp ground coriander
- 4 cup plain yogurt
- 2000 g boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 tsp paprika
- 4 tsp turmeric
- 4 Cooked basmati rice or naan bread
- 4 unit large onion
- 4 cup heavy cream
- 8 tsp grated ginger
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cup tomato puree
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tsp ground black pepper
- 8 tbsp ghee (or butter)
- 4 Fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves
- 4 Salt
Nutritional Information
Calculated based on standard values with available measurements and may therefore not be accurate.
Nutritional information not available.
Instructions
Step 1
In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients: yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat. Marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Step 2
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes until cooked through. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken on a stovetop grill or in a skillet until browned and cooked.
Step 3
In a large saucepan or skillet, heat the ghee (or butter) over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 4
Reduce the heat to low and add the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, paprika, and chili powder. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes to release the flavours.
Step 5
Add the tomato puree to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, add the heavy cream and stir until well combined. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.
Step 6
Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer the sauce to a blender or use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. If using a blender, be careful when blending hot liquids.
Step 7
Return the blended sauce to the pan and place it back on low heat. Add the baked chicken pieces and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water to adjust the consistency.
Step 8
Stir in the unsalted butter until melted. Season with salt to taste.
Step 9
Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Step 10
Serve the butter chicken hot with cooked basmati rice or naan bread.
Recipe Story
Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant flavors of India with the mouthwatering delight that is Butter Chicken! Bursting with aromatic spices, rich creamy sauce, and tender chicken, this iconic dish is a true favorite among Indian cuisine enthusiasts worldwide.
Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani in Hindi, originated in the vibrant city of Delhi, India. It was reportedly invented by a famous chef, Kundan Lal Gujral, in the early 20th century. Legend has it that Gujral repurposed leftover tandoori chicken by simmering it in a creamy tomato-based sauce, thus giving birth to this delectable dish.
The marinade plays a crucial role in infusing the chicken with flavor. Yogurt acts as a tenderizing agent, while a combination of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala creates a harmonious blend of tastes. Lemon juice adds a tangy twist, perfectly complementing the rich and creamy nature of the dish.
The sauce, a key element in butter chicken, is a velvety concoction of onions, garlic, ginger, and an array of spices. Tomato puree adds a vibrant red hue and a slightly tangy flavor. The addition of heavy cream provides a luxurious and creamy texture that beautifully coats the chicken.
Traditionally, butter chicken is cooked in a tandoor (a traditional clay oven) or grilled, but it can also be prepared on a stovetop or baked in an oven. Once the chicken is cooked, it is gently simmered in the luscious sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a harmonious blend.
Butter chicken is typically served with fragrant basmati rice or naan bread, which are perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce. Garnished with fresh cilantro leaves, the dish offers a burst of vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas that are sure to entice your taste buds.
So, gather your ingredients, embrace the flavors of India, and savor every mouthful of this heavenly Butter Chicken!
