Sure! Here’s a basic recipe for making butter chicken:
Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garam masala
Salt to taste
For the Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tsp sugar (optional)
1 tsp garam masala
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika, garam masala, and salt.
Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
- Cook the Chicken:
Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes per side until they are cooked through and have a slight char. Alternatively, you can pan-fry the chicken in a bit of oil until cooked. Set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
Heat butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until soft and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add cumin, coriander, paprika, and red chili powder. Stir and cook for 1 minute.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes or tomato puree. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
Stir in the heavy cream, sugar (if using), and garam masala. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Add the grilled chicken pieces to the sauce and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
- Serve:
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan bread or rice.
Enjoy your homemade butter chicken!