Delicious Chicken Butter Masala Recipe: A Flavorful Journey for Food Enthusiasts and Home Chefs
Imagine a delicious bowl of Chicken Butter Masala, served with soft naan or fragrant basmati rice. The kitchen smells wonderful, and you’re reminded of the streets of India where this dish comes from. If you love food, enjoy cooking at home, or own a restaurant, you’re in for a treat. In this blog, we’ll explore the world of Chicken Butter Masala, a classic Indian dish that can amaze anyone you serve it to.
Origin and History
Chicken Butter Masala, also known as Butter Chicken or Murg Makhani, comes from India. It was created in the 1950s by a famous chef named Kundan Lal Gujral, who started the Moti Mahal restaurant in Old Delhi. Gujral used leftover tandoori-cooked chicken and simmered it in a rich tomato and butter sauce, creating a dish that is now loved around the world.
Nutritional Facts
Let’s look at the nutrition in a serving of Chicken Butter Masala. Remember, these values can change based on what you use, but here’s a general idea:
- Calories: About 320 per serving.
- Protein: 25 grams
- Fat: 22 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
- Sodium: 660 mg
Ingredients You'll Need
To make Chicken Butter Masala for four people, you’ll need these ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 500 grams of boneless chicken pieces
- 1/2 cup of plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
For the Gravy:
- 3 tablespoons of butter
- 1 cup finely chopped onions
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup of cashew paste (optional for extra creaminess)
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Kitchen Tools
You’ll need a few basic kitchen tools to make this dish:
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or a heavy pan
- Blender or food processor
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
Step by Step Process
Let’s start cooking Chicken Butter Masala:
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken (15 minutes)
- Mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt in a bowl.
- Put the chicken in and make sure it’s coated.
- Put it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken (15 minutes)
- Heat a skillet or pan on medium-high heat.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add the marinated chicken.
- Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked. Set aside.
Step 3: Making the Gravy (20 minutes)
- In the same skillet, add the rest of the butter.
- Add chopped onions and cook until they’re golden.
- Put in tomato puree, sugar, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until oil separates from the mixture.
Step 4: Blending the Sauce (5 minutes)
- Let the gravy cool a bit, then blend it until it’s smooth.
- Put the blended gravy back in the pan.
Step 5: Finishing the Dish (10 minutes)
- Add the cooked chicken and heavy cream to the gravy.
- If you want it creamier, add cashew paste.
- Sprinkle garam masala and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Tips for Cooking
- Use fresh, good-quality ingredients for the best taste.
- Adjust the spiciness by changing the amount of chili powder.
- For a healthier option, use low-fat yogurt and less cream.
- Garnish with fresh coriander for a burst of freshness.
Serve
Your Chicken Butter Masala is ready to serve! Enjoy it with naan, rice, or parathas. The creamy, tasty dish will impress your guests with its rich flavors and tender chicken.
Variations
- Paneer Butter Masala: Use paneer (Indian cottage cheese) instead of chicken for a vegetarian version.
- Tofu Butter Masala: Go vegan by swapping chicken with tofu and using plant-based cream and butter.
- Spicy Butter Chicken: Add more red chili powder for extra spiciness.
Cost of Making
The cost of making Chicken Butter Masala can change based on where you shop and the quality of your ingredients. On average, it’s around INR 400-500 for 4 servings, making it an affordable and delightful meal.
Conclusion
Chicken Butter Masala brings the heart of India to your kitchen. Whether you’re a home chef trying to impress your family or a restaurant owner aiming to satisfy your customers, this classic dish is a winner. Its rich history, delicious flavors, and easy preparation make it a perfect choice. So, get cooking, gather your ingredients, and embark on a journey to amaze anyone who gets to taste this iconic Indian recipe.
