The Ultimate Butter Chicken Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Taste of Secret Delight

Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a popular Indian dish that has gained international fame for its rich and creamy flavors. This delectable dish combines tender chicken pieces with a luscious tomato-based gravy, infused with aromatic spices and finished with a touch of butter. If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or simply looking to explore new flavors, this step-by-step guide will help you recreate the taste of secret delight in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 500 grams boneless chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons 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
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the yogurt, 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 and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This will help the chicken absorb the flavors and become tender.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken

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

Step 3: Preparing the Tomato Gravy

In the same pan, melt the butter and add the tomato puree. Cook the puree for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Add the remaining ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute.

Step 4: Simmering the Gravy

Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked chicken back into the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken with the tomato gravy. Pour in the heavy cream and mix it gently with the gravy. Allow the dish to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serving and Garnishing

Once the butter chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the heat. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness and aroma. Serve hot with naan bread or steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Now, you can enjoy the tantalizing flavors of butter chicken right in the comfort of your own home. This classic Indian dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its creamy texture and aromatic spices. Experiment with the recipe by adjusting the spice levels to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will help you create a memorable meal that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of India.