Butter chicken, or “murgh makhani,” is one of India’s most cherished culinary exports. Known for its velvety tomato-based gravy and tender chicken, this creamy curry is a true comfort food. Making it halal at home ensures you enjoy its authentic flavors while adhering to dietary guidelines. Whether served with warm naan or fragrant basmati rice, halal butter chicken is a meal that delights every palate.
What is Butter Chicken?
Butter chicken originated in the bustling kitchens of Delhi in the 1950s. This iconic dish was created as a way to repurpose leftover tandoori chicken by simmering it in a rich, buttery tomato gravy.
The dish features marinated and grilled chicken pieces that are cooked in a luscious sauce made with tomatoes, cream, butter, and an array of spices. Its mildly spiced yet deeply flavorful profile makes it a favorite across the globe. Butter chicken offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, making it a must-try for curry lovers.
Non-Halal Components and Halal Alternatives
While traditional butter chicken recipes are generally halal, certain modern adaptations or pre-made options may include non-halal elements. Here’s how to ensure your butter chicken remains halal:
- Chicken:
- Haram Issue: Some store-bought chicken may not be slaughtered according to Islamic guidelines.
- Halal Alternative: Always use halal-certified chicken, ensuring it is sourced from a trusted supplier.
- Cream and Butter:
- Haram Issue: Some dairy products might include alcohol-based flavoring agents or animal-derived enzymes.
- Halal Alternative: Opt for halal-certified cream and unsalted butter to maintain authenticity and compliance.
- Ready-Made Spice Mixes or Sauces:
- Haram Issue: Pre-made spice blends or sauces can include haram additives or alcohol-based preservatives.
- Halal Alternative: Use individual spices to create your own blend or check for halal-certified spice mixes.
By being mindful of these elements, you can prepare a wholesome and halal butter chicken at home.
Tools You’ll Need:
- A mixing bowl for marination
- A skillet or heavy-bottomed pan for cooking
- A blender or immersion blender for a smooth gravy
- Measuring spoons and cups for precision
How to Make Halal Butter Chicken
Halal Butter Chicken
Course: MainCuisine: Indian4
servings10
minutes30
minutes450
kcalHalal butter chicken, or “murgh makhani,” is a creamy, tomato-based Indian curry with tender chicken, offering authentic flavors and comfort when paired with naan or basmati rice.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
- For the Chicken Marinade:
500 grams of halal chicken (boneless thighs or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup of plain halal yogurt
2 tablespoons of lemon juice
1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon of red chili powder
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
Salt to taste
- For the Gravy:
3 tablespoons of halal unsalted butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 large tomatoes, pureed
1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon of garam masala
1 teaspoon of ground coriander
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of paprika
1 cup of halal-certified heavy cream
2 tablespoons of honey (optional, for sweetness)
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
STEPS TO FOLLOW
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, cumin, turmeric, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and lightly grease it. Sear the marinated chicken pieces until cooked through and slightly charred. Set aside.
- Prepare the Gravy:
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the onions until golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook until aromatic.
- Add the tomato puree and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
- Add Spices and Cream:
- Stir in garam masala, ground coriander, cumin, and paprika. Let the spices cook for 1–2 minutes to release their aroma.
- Slowly add the cream and mix well, simmering the gravy until it thickens slightly.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Add the cooked chicken pieces to the gravy and simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Adjust seasoning with salt and honey, if desired.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and a drizzle of cream. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.
PERSONAL NOTES
Why You’ll Love Halal Butter Chicken
- Rich and Creamy: The buttery gravy is smooth, luxurious, and deeply satisfying.
- Family-Friendly: Its mild spice level makes it appealing to both kids and adults.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice, sweetness, or richness to suit your preferences.
- Authentic Flavor: This recipe captures the essence of traditional Indian butter chicken, enhanced by fresh and halal ingredients.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it is a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, butter chicken is always a crowd-pleaser.
Conclusion
Halal butter chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Indian cuisine to your table. By carefully selecting halal ingredients and following this easy recipe, you can recreate an authentic restaurant-quality curry in your own kitchen.
Try it today and experience the magic of this classic Indian favorite!
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