Chicken Makhani: A British Take on a Classic Indian Dish

Chicken Makhani, often referred to as Butter Chicken, is a beloved Indian dish that has made its way into British kitchens with great acclaim. This rich and creamy curry is renowned for its indulgent flavours, combining tender pieces of chicken marinated in a fragrant blend of spices, then simmered in a luscious sauce made from tomatoes, butter, and a touch of cream.

Ingredients: To prepare a delightful Chicken Makhani, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g of boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 150g of plain yoghurt
• 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon of garam masala
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon of chilli powder
• Salt, to taste
• 100g of unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 400g of canned tomatoes, puréed
• 100ml of double cream
• Fresh coriander, for garnish

Method: Begin by marinating the chicken in a mixture of yoghurt, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric, chilli powder, and salt. Allow it to sit for at least an hour, or preferably overnight, to infuse the flavours deeply.

In a large pan, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onion until golden brown. Add the marinated chicken, cooking until it's sealed and lightly browned. Pour in the puréed tomatoes, stirring well, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.

Finish the dish by stirring in the double cream, allowing it to bring a silky richness to the curry. Serve your Chicken Makhani hot, garnished with fresh coriander, alongside fluffy basmati rice or warm naan for a perfect, hearty meal that delights the senses and warms the soul.