Introduction
Murg Makhani, or Butter Chicken, is a delightful Indian dish that has captured the hearts of food lovers around the world. Originating from Delhi, this creamy and rich curry is made with marinated chicken cooked in a savory tomato and butter sauce. Known for its robust flavors and velvety texture, Murg Makhani is often accompanied by naan or rice, making it a fulfilling meal perfect for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken thighs – 1 kg, boneless and skinless
Yogurt – 200 g, plain
Ginger – 2-inch piece, grated
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Garam masala – 2 teaspoons
Chili powder – 1 teaspoon
Salt – to taste
Butter – 100 g
Onions – 2, finely chopped
Canned tomatoes – 400 g
Cream – 100 ml
Cilantro – a handful, chopped for garnish
Prep Time
The preparation time for Murg Makhani is approximately 30 minutes. This includes marinating the chicken and prepping the vegetables.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for Murg Makhani is around 40 minutes. In total, you can expect to spend about 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish, yielding approximately 4 servings of this delicious dish.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Cut the chicken into large chunks and place them in a bowl. Add yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, coriander, cumin, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken and let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a grill pan or barbecue over high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side until the chicken is charred and cooked through. Set aside once done.
Step 3: Prepare the Base
In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions, ginger, and garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and golden.
Step 4: Add Spices and Tomatoes
Stir in the ground coriander, cumin, and garam masala. Cook for another minute before adding chopped tomatoes. Simmer for around 10-15 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens.
Step 5: Blend the Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, use a blender to puree the mixture until smooth. Return the sauce to the pan, then add cream and stir to combine.
Step 6: Combine with Chicken
Add the cooked chicken pieces to the sauce and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Check seasoning and adjust as necessary with salt and pepper.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the Murg Makhani with naan, rice, or your choice of bread. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves if desired.
Notes
Tip 1: Marination Time
For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for longer, up to overnight.
Tip 2: Adjusting Spice Levels
Modify the amount of spices to suit your heat preference, using more or less as needed.
Tip 3: Cream Alternatives
For a lighter dish, you can substitute cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.
Tip 4: Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken in a mixture of yogurt and spices helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
Grilling
Grilling the marinated chicken gives it a smoky flavor and a nice char, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Simmering
Simmering the chicken in the buttery tomato sauce allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and creamy texture.
Blending
Blending the sauce ingredients creates a smooth and velvety consistency, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
Garnishing
Garnishing the dish with fresh coriander and a drizzle of cream not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor profile.
FAQ
What can I substitute for yogurt in the marinade?
You can use sour cream or buttermilk as an alternative to yogurt for marinating the chicken.
Can I make murg makhani ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it. The flavors often improve when allowed to sit.
Is murg makhani spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference; you can reduce the chili powder or use mild spices.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Bone-in, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts can also be used.
Can I use a vegetarian substitute?
Yes, you can replace chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version of murg makhani.
Conclusion
Enjoying a rich and flavorful dish like Murg Makhani is an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction. This buttery chicken curry not only showcases the vibrant spices of Indian cuisine but also embodies the comforting nature of homemade meals.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Paneer Butter Masala
This vegetarian alternative is equally creamy and indulgent, using paneer instead of chicken, making it a perfect dish for vegetarians.
Butter Chicken Tikka
Add a twist to your Murg Makhani by marinating the chicken in spices and yogurt before grilling, enhancing the flavor profile.
Garlic Naan
Serve with butter chicken for a truly authentic Indian meal experience. The fluffy texture perfectly complements the rich curry.
Basmati Rice
Fluffy basmati rice is an excellent side that absorbs the savory sauce of Murg Makhani, creating a balanced meal.
Chickpea Curry
For a protein-packed vegetarian option, try a chickpea curry that pairs well with the buttery flavors of Murg Makhani.
Tandoori Vegetables
Grilled seasonal vegetables marinated in tandoori spices make a colorful and flavorful addition to your meal.
Cucumber Raita
This cooling yogurt-based side dish is a refreshing contrast to the spices in Murg Makhani, enhancing your dining experience.