Welcome to the world of Indian cuisine, where rich flavors and aromatic spices come together to create culinary masterpieces. One of the most beloved dishes in Indian cooking is Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani. This dish, with its creamy tomato sauce and tender chicken, is often paired with warm, fluffy naan, making it a favorite for many. In this article, we will explore how to make Indian Butter Chicken with Naan from scratch, ensuring you can enjoy this restaurant-quality dish right in your home.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking to impress your family, or simply craving something delicious, this recipe for Indian Butter Chicken with Naan is sure to delight. The combination of marinated chicken simmered in a luscious sauce and served with freshly baked naan creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to India. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Indian Butter Chicken recipe is not just about the incredible taste; it’s also about the experience of making it. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this dish:
- Flavor Explosion: The rich blend of spices used in this recipe creates a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. The marinade infuses the chicken with a delightful taste, while the creamy sauce enhances every bite.
- Comfort Food: Butter Chicken is the ultimate comfort food. Its creamy texture and warm spices make it a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion.
- Perfect for Sharing: This dish is great for sharing with friends and family, making it an excellent choice for gatherings and celebrations. Pair it with naan, and you have a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a milder dish or want to add some heat, this recipe is versatile enough to meet your preferences.
- Easy to Follow: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly. Even novice cooks can create a delicious Butter Chicken with Naan that will impress.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Trying out this Indian Butter Chicken with Naan recipe is not just about enjoying a tasty meal; it’s about embarking on a culinary adventure. Here’s why you should give it a go:
- Authentic Taste: This recipe captures the essence of traditional Indian cooking. The use of spices such as garam masala, cumin, and turmeric adds an authentic touch that elevates your dining experience.
- Healthier Option: Unlike many restaurant versions that can be overly rich, you can control the ingredients in your homemade Butter Chicken, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.
- Creative Cooking: Making naan from scratch is a fun and rewarding process. It allows you to engage with the cooking process and learn new skills in the kitchen.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant color of the Butter Chicken, combined with the warm, golden naan, creates a visually stunning dish that is sure to impress anyone who sees it.
- Leftover Goodness: If there are any leftovers, they taste even better the next day. The flavors meld beautifully, making it perfect for lunch or dinner the following day.
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils
Ingredients for Butter Chicken
- 500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Ingredients for Naan
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Extra flour, for dusting
Recommended Tools or Utensils for Recipe Success
- Large mixing bowls for marinating and mixing dough
- Skillet or pot for cooking the Butter Chicken
- Rolling pin and flat surface for rolling out naan
- Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
- Sharp knife for cutting chicken and chopping vegetables
Detailed Recipe Steps
Prepare the Chicken Marinade
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, and salt.
- Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Cook the Butter Chicken
- In a large skillet or pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the heavy cream and sugar, then simmer for another 10 minutes, adjusting salt to taste.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Make the Naan
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, mix warm water, yogurt, and olive oil (or melted butter).
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat a skillet or tawa over medium-high heat.
- Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each into a ball. Flatten into circles about ¼ inch thick.
- Cook each naan on the skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side, until puffed and lightly browned.
Serve
Serve the Butter Chicken hot with the freshly made naan on the side. Enjoy the creamy, flavorful chicken paired with the soft, warm bread, making every bite a delightful experience.
FAQs
What is the best way to store leftover Butter Chicken?
Leftover Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream to restore its richness.
Can I make Butter Chicken without cream?
Yes, you can substitute the cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter version. This will still give you a creamy texture without using dairy.
How can I make naan without yeast?
If you don’t have yeast, you can use baking powder as in this recipe. It will help the naan to rise and become fluffy without the need for yeast fermentation.
What can I serve with Butter Chicken?
Butter Chicken is traditionally served with naan or basmati rice. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or raita to balance the rich flavors.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted to use lamb, beef, or even paneer for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly for different meats.
Conclusion
Now that you have all the ingredients and steps to create the perfect Indian Butter Chicken with Naan, it’s time to get cooking! This dish is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to bring a taste of India into your kitchen. Make sure to experiment with the spices to find your perfect balance. Remember to share your experience in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. Happy cooking!
For more delightful recipes, check out our Pinterest page for inspiration. You might also enjoy these related recipes: Slow Cooker Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes, Crock Pot Goulash, Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, Crock Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe, Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Rice, and Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs.
