Tender chicken meets a rich, creamy tomato sauce to create a dish that’s legendary in its own right – Butter Chicken. The name alone is enough to set taste buds tingling. This iconic Indian dish is a blend of spices, cream, and chicken that yields an unforgettable dining experience. It’s comfort food at its best, offering a warm, soul-satisfying embrace.

Unveiling the Stars of this Culinary Show:

For the Marinade:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: 500 grams, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Yogurt: 1/2 cup
• Ginger-Garlic Paste: 1 tablespoon
• Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Garam Masala: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: To taste

For the Butter Chicken:

• Butter: 4 tablespoons
• Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
• Tomato: 4 large, pureed
• Kashmiri Red Chili Powder: 1 tablespoon
• Garam Masala: 1 teaspoon
• Dried Fenugreek Leaves (Kasuri Methi): 1 tablespoon
• Cream: 1/2 cup
• Cashew Paste: 2 tablespoons (Soak cashews in warm water, then blend to a smooth paste)
• Salt: To taste
• Fresh Cilantro: For garnish
• Fresh Cucumber Slices: For garnish (optional)

The Art of Crafting Butter Chicken – Step by Step:

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

1. Begin by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If you can, prepare in advance and leave overnight in the fridge.

Step 2: The Searing Dance

1. In a pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through. Set aside.

Step 3: Creating the Base

1. In the same pan, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. Stir in the tomato puree and cook until the mixture thickens and the oil starts to separate.

Step 4: Bringing the Flavors Together

1. Add Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, and dried fenugreek leaves. Mix well.
2. Add the seared chicken pieces and cashew paste. Stir to combine, ensuring the chicken is well coated with the sauce.

Step 5: The Creamy Finish

1. Lower the heat and gently pour in the cream, stirring continuously to avoid curdling.
2. Allow the chicken to simmer in the creamy sauce for a few minutes until it’s perfectly tender and absorbing all the flavors.

Step 6: Garnishing and Serving

1. Serve the Butter Chicken over steaming white jasmine rice, letting the creamy sauce meld with the rice for an exquisite taste.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a few cucumber slices if desired.

Time to Savor:

Butter Chicken is a melody of spices, smoothness of cream and the succulence of chicken all in one bite. This recipe promises to bring the essence of India into your kitchen, allowing you to create a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone craving for more. We surely hope you enjoy the creamy, buttery delight!