Mastering the Perfect Butter Chicken Sauce Thickness

Butter chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, is a beloved Indian dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. Its origins can be traced back to Delhi, where it was first created in the 1950s. This dish has since gained immense popularity worldwide for its delightful flavors and comforting texture. Here, we will outline the best way to make butter chicken, ensuring a delicious outcome that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Ingredients geeded

To make butter chicken, the following ingredients are required:

For the Marinade:

– 500 grams (1.1 lbs) boneless chicken (preferably thighs for more flavor)
– ¾ to 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– ¼ to ⅓ teaspoon salt
– ½ to ¾ teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (or paprika)
– ¾ to 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves, optional)
– ⅛ teaspoon turmeric powder
– ½ teaspoon cumin powder (optional)
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder (optional)
– ¾ to 1 tablespoon oil
– ¾ tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
– ⅓ cup Greek yogurt or hung curd

For the Gravy:

– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece ginger, grated
– 400 grams (14 oz) ripe tomatoes, pureed (or canned tomatoes)
– 1 tablespoon Kashmiri chili powder
– ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
– ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
– 3 tablespoons heavy cream
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Marinate the chicken

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with lemon juice, salt, and spices (Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, kasuri methi, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and ginger-garlic paste).

2. Add the Greek yogurt and mix well to coat the chicken evenly. Ensure there is no excess moisture on the chicken.

3. Cover the bowl with cling film and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least **3 hours**. For best results, marinating overnight is highly recommended.

Step 2: Prepare the gravy

1. In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become golden brown. This step is crucial as it adds depth to the flavor of the gravy.

2. Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Add the pureed tomatoes, Kashmiri chili powder, and salt. Cook this mixture on medium heat for about **10-15 minutes**, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are cooked down and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.

4. If desired, add sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step 3: Cook the chicken

1. In a separate pan, heat the remaining oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces in batches, searing them until they are browned on all sides. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.

2. Once browned, transfer the chicken to the tomato gravy. Stir well to combine.

3. Lower the heat and cover the pan. Let it simmer for about **20-30 minutes**, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Final touches

1. Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the heavy cream for a rich, creamy texture. Simmer for an additional **5 minutes** to allow the flavors to meld together.

2. Taste the butter chicken and adjust seasoning if necessary. If the sauce is too thick, a splash of water can be added to achieve the desired consistency.

3. To finish, add a tablespoon of butter for extra richness and a glossy finish.

4. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Serving suggestions

Butter chicken is best served hot with steamed Basmati rice, naan, or roti. A side of pickled onions or cucumber salad can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

Making butter chicken at home is a rewarding experience that brings the flavors of India right to your kitchen. By following these steps and using quality ingredients, a delicious, restaurant-style butter chicken can be achieved. This dish not only satisfies the palate but also warms the heart, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or special occasions. Enjoy the process and savor the delightful results!

want to get some knowledge about butter chicken : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Butter_chicken