How to Make Butter Chicken in 45 Minutes: A Quick and Delicious Recipe

Butter Chicken is a beloved dish from the rich and diverse cuisine of the Indian subcontinent. Known for its tender, succulent chunks of chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is a perfect balance of spices and flavors that can be enjoyed both as a quick meal and as a special occasion dish. In this guide, we will break down the process of preparing this hearty main course, which can be ready in just 45 minutes. Follow the detailed steps below to create a mouthwatering Butter Chicken that will impress both family and friends.

Main Course - Chicken

Prep Time: 31-40 minutes

The process of making Butter Chicken begins by marinating the chicken in a blend of spices. This step is crucial as it ensures the chicken absorbs the flavors and stays juicy during cooking. Let's take a closer look at the ingredients and methods involved in making this fantastic dish.

Ingredients List for Butter Chicken

400 grams boneless chicken, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chilli powder 1 tablespoon lemon juice Salt to taste 2 tablespoons butter Marinade: 1/4 cup thick yogurt 2 teaspoons ginger paste 2 teaspoons garlic paste 1 teaspoon red chilli powder 1 teaspoon garam masala powder Salt to taste 2 teaspoons mustard oil Makhni gravy: 12 medium tomatoes, roughly chopped 4 tablespoons butter 4 green cardamoms 1 gram mace (javatari) 1 teaspoon ginger paste 1 teaspoon garlic paste Salt to taste 1 teaspoon red chilli deghi mirch powder 1 teaspoon roasted and crushed dried fenugreek (kasoori methi) 1 tablespoon honey 3 tablespoons fresh cream

Method

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

Prick the chicken pieces all over with a fork to make small holes for the marinade to penetrate the meat. Place the chicken in a large bowl and add the salt, red chilli powder, and lemon juice. Mix well. Spread the chicken with the mixture of yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, chilli powder, and garam masala powder. Ensure all the pieces are evenly covered. Transfer the bowl into the refrigerator and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. For a richer taste, marinate for up to 2 hours.

Step 2: Preparing the Makhni Gravy

Puree the tomatoes to create a smooth base for the gravy. Heat two tablespoons of butter in a deep, non-stick pan over low heat. Add the green cardamoms and mace, and cook till fragrant. Add the ginger and garlic pastes, and sauté for a minute. Add the pureed tomatoes, salt, red chilli powder, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 to 20 minutes until the mixture thickens. Preheat your gas tandoor. Place the lid on the chicken pieces and cook for until they are done. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken on a gas stove with a greased pan and cover it with a lid. Add the roasted and crushed kasuri methi to the gravy and mix it in. Continue cooking the mixture with the remaining butter for a few minutes. Stir in the honey and fresh cream, and cook for an additional two minutes. Add the cooked chicken to the gravy and let it simmer for three minutes. This process ensures the chicken is well-coated in the creamy sauce. Once everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly, your Butter Chicken is ready.

Servings and Garnishes

Serve your Butter Chicken hot with naan bread or any desired accompaniments. Garnish with chopped cilantro to add a fresh herbal note to the dish. This recipe yields about 4 servings, depending on portion size.

Tips and Variations

Use high-quality spices to enhance the flavor of the dish. For a thicker consistency, incorporate a slurry of cornstarch and water mixed with a small amount of the gravy. You can also use boneless drumsticks or pieces if you prefer larger chunks of chicken.

Enjoy your homemade Butter Chicken, a staple of Indian cuisine that is easy to make and absolutely delightful. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is your go-to for quick, delicious, and authentic Indian cuisine.