Butter Chicken
Classic butter chicken dish served with rice or naan.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Global Fusion Bistro
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, originated in Delhi in the 1950s at the Moti Mahal restaurant. It was reportedly created by Kundan Lal Jaggi, who experimented with leftover tandoori chicken by simmering it in a tomato-based sauce rich with butter and cream to prevent it from drying out. This innovative approach inadvertently led to one of the most beloved Indian dishes globally.
Butter Chicken is a universally popular Indian dish, representing comfort food and celebratory meals. It's often a staple at weddings, parties, and family gatherings. Its mild spice level makes it appealing to a wide range of palates, and its rich flavor makes it a satisfying and memorable dish.
Global Appeal
Butter Chicken is a globally recognized and beloved Indian dish, found on menus in Indian restaurants worldwide and adapted to suit local tastes while maintaining its core flavor profile.
Wedding Staple
It's often featured prominently in wedding buffets and celebratory feasts, symbolizing abundance and prosperity.
Comfort Food
It's considered a classic comfort food, evoking feelings of warmth, satisfaction, and nostalgia for many.
Butter Chicken boasts a creamy, rich, and subtly sweet flavor profile with a delightful blend of spices. The dominant notes are from the tangy tomatoes, mellowed by the sweetness of butter and cream, and enhanced by aromatic spices.
The key ingredients that contribute to the complex flavor of Butter Chicken include: Tandoori chicken (marinated in yogurt and spices, then cooked in a tandoor oven), tomatoes (providing acidity and sweetness), butter (for richness and silkiness), cream (adds to the creamy texture and mellows the spices), ginger and garlic (for aromatic depth), garam masala (a blend of warming spices), chili powder (for a touch of heat), kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves, adding a unique aroma and slightly bitter note), and sometimes, a touch of sugar or honey to balance the acidity.
Marinate the Chicken Well
Marinating the chicken overnight or for several hours allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product.
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh tomatoes, ginger, and garlic will significantly enhance the flavor of the sauce. Canned tomatoes can be used if necessary, but adjust the sweetness and acidity accordingly.
Don't Skimp on Butter
The butter is essential for the richness and silkiness of the sauce. Ghee can be used for an even more authentic and nutty flavor.
Simmer Gently
Allow the sauce to simmer gently for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and deepen. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Adjust Spice Level
Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preference. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Explore additional Indian dishes and restaurants
Explore IndianDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Chestermere.
Explore ChestermereLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of Canada.
Explore Canada