My Favorite Traditional Indian Recipe: Butter Chicken

India has many famous dishes. But my favorite is Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani). It is creamy, mildly spiced, and cooked with love. No North Indian celebration is complete without it.

My Favorite: Butter Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken

• Chicken (boneless): 500g (cubed)

• Yogurt: ½ cup

• Ginger-garlic paste: 1 tablespoon

• Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon

• Salt: 1 teaspoon

• Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon

• Marinate for 2-4 hours

2. Cook the Chicken (Tandoor Style)

• Thread marinated chicken on skewers

• Grill or bake at 200°C for 15 minutes

• Slightly charred edges are best

• Can also pan fry if no oven

• Set aside when done

3. Prepare the Gravy Base

• Butter: 2 tablespoons

• Onion: 1 large (finely chopped)

• Tomato puree: 1 cup

• Ginger-garlic paste: 1 tablespoon

• Cook until oil separates from masala

4. Add Spices to Gravy

• Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon

• Coriander powder: 1 teaspoon

• Garam masala: 1 teaspoon

• Salt: to taste

• Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant

5. Finish the Gravy (Creamy and Rich)

• Heavy cream: ½ cup

• Butter: 2 tablespoons (extra)

• Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek): 1 teaspoon

• Simmer for 5 minutes

• Add grilled chicken pieces

6. Serve

• Garnish with fresh cream and coriander

• Serve with naan bread or rice

• Side of raw onions and lemon wedge

• Extra butter on top (optional)