Butter chicken (murgh makhani) – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
India Region / Locale: Delhi Servings: 4
India Region / Locale: Delhi Servings: 4Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, is a classic Indian dish under the spotlight in countless households and restaurants worldwide. Originating from Northern India, this rich and creamy dish features succulent pieces of chicken bathed in a luscious tomato gravy spiked with aromatic spices and enriched with butter and cream. It was allegedly invented by chefs at the Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi during the 1950s as a way to repurpose leftovers, showcasing the ingenuity and indulgence of Indian cuisine.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts – 1 lb / 450 g
- Plain yogurt – 1 cup / 240 g
- Garam masala – 1 tbsp / 8 g
- Ground cumin – 1 tsp / 2 g
- Ground coriander – 1 tsp / 2 g
- Salt – 1 tsp / 5 g
- Butter – 4 tbsp / 60 g
- Onion, finely chopped – 1 large / 150 g
- Garlic cloves, minced – 4 cloves / 12 g
- Ginger, grated – 2 inches / 20 g
- Tomato purée – 1 1/2 cups / 360 g
- Heavy cream – 1 cup / 240 ml
- Cayenne pepper – 1/2 tsp / 1 g
- Water – 1 cup / 240 ml
- Fresh cilantro, chopped – for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and salt. Add chicken and ensure it is thoroughly coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato purée, cayenne pepper, and water. Simmer gently for 10 minutes.
- In a separate pan, melt the remaining butter and cook the marinated chicken until done, about 10 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked chicken into the sauce. Stir in the cream gently.
- Let the sauce simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the flavors meld together.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Substitutions
- Chicken breasts -> Chicken thighs
- Heavy cream -> Coconut cream
- Garam masala -> Curry powder
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Use chicken thighs for more juiciness.
- Add a pinch of fenugreek leaves for depth in flavor.
- Include a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
