If there’s one dish that captures the heart of Indian cuisine lovers across the globe, it’s Chicken Makhani, better known as Butter Chicken. Its rich, velvety texture and heavenly aroma make it one of the most cherished comfort foods in Indian households and restaurants alike.
At Layla’s Kitchen, an authentic Indian Food Restaurant in Columbus OH, we bring you the royal flavors of Chicken Makhani that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Delhi. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how this iconic dish is prepared – step by step – along with some delicious facts that make this dish unforgettable.
What is Chicken Makhani (Butter Chicken)?
Butter Chicken is a North Indian delicacy known for its smooth tomato-based curry infused with cream, butter, and a unique blend of spices. Originating in the 1950s in Delhi, this dish was created to repurpose leftover tandoori chicken by simmering it in a luscious tomato and butter gravy. Today, it’s a staple in nearly every Indian restaurant, and rightly so!
At Layla’s Kitchen in Columbus OH, we prepare this dish with traditional methods while maintaining its timeless taste.
Ingredients You Need for Chicken Makhani
Before diving into the preparation steps, here’s a list of ingredients commonly used to make authentic Butter Chicken:
For the Marinated Chicken:
- 500g boneless chicken (preferably thigh pieces)
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2-3 tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh cream
- 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Recipe – How We Make Butter Chicken at Layla’s Kitchen
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by marinating the chicken with yogurt, lemon juice, red chili powder, turmeric, salt, and ginger-garlic paste. Let it rest for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight in the refrigerator. This process tenderizes the meat and allows the flavors to seep deep inside.
At Layla’s Kitchen, we let our marinated chicken rest in traditional spices, following recipes passed down through generations.
Step 2: Grill or Cook the Chicken
Once marinated, the chicken can either be grilled in a tandoor (clay oven) or pan-fried until golden brown. This gives the dish a slight char and adds a smoky flavor.
The authenticity of our Butter Chicken lies in our tandoor-cooked chicken pieces, offering the perfect balance between tenderness and charred goodness.
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy
In a deep pan, heat oil and butter together. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until raw smell disappears.
Then add tomato puree and let it cook for 10-12 minutes on medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil starts separating from the tomato mixture.
This step is crucial. At Layla’s Kitchen, we simmer the gravy patiently so that it retains the deep, earthy flavor of tomatoes and spices.
Step 4: Add Spices and Cream
Once the tomato mixture is cooked, add chili powder, garam masala, salt, and a generous amount of butter. Stir well. Now, gently fold in the grilled chicken pieces and let them simmer in the gravy for another 8-10 minutes.
As a final touch, add fresh cream and crushed kasuri methi. Let it simmer on low heat until the gravy thickens to a rich, creamy consistency.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top the dish with a knob of butter and chopped coriander leaves. Serve it hot with naan, jeera rice, or parathas for a complete experience.
At Layla’s Kitchen, we serve Butter Chicken with freshly baked naan from our clay oven, ensuring an authentic taste every time.
Why Butter Chicken is So Popular
The beauty of Butter Chicken lies in its balance. The creaminess doesn’t overpower the spices. The tang from tomatoes complements the richness of butter. The slight smoky char from the chicken adds a new depth. It’s indulgent, comforting, and timeless.
Whether you’re trying Indian food for the first time or are a long-time lover of the cuisine, Chicken Makhani is a safe and satisfying choice.
Pairing Suggestions
At Layla’s Kitchen, we recommend pairing Butter Chicken with:
- Butter Naan or Garlic Naan: Soft and buttery, these are perfect for scooping up the creamy gravy.
- Jeera Rice: The subtle flavors of cumin rice enhance the dish without overwhelming it.
- Mango Lassi: A cool and sweet contrast to the warm spices of Butter Chicken.
- Onion Salad & Pickle: Adds crunch and tang to the meal.
Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken at Home
- Marinate Longer: The longer the chicken marinates, the better it absorbs flavors.
- Use Fresh Cream: This enhances the richness of the curry.
- Crush Kasuri Methi: Rub it between your palms before adding to release its aroma.
- Balance Flavors: Add a pinch of sugar if your tomatoes are too tangy.
- Char the Chicken: Use a hot grill or broiler to mimic tandoor cooking at home.
Where to Try the Best Butter Chicken in Columbus, OH?
If you're looking for the best place to enjoy Butter Chicken in Columbus OH, look no further than Layla’s Kitchen. As a trusted Indian Food Restaurant in Columbus OH, we’re known for our authentic recipes, fresh ingredients, and warm hospitality.
Our chefs bring decades of culinary experience, crafting each dish with passion and precision. Whether you're dining in or ordering takeout, your Butter Chicken experience will be unforgettable.
Visit Us Today!
Layla’s Kitchen – Indian Food Restaurant In Columbus OH
📍 Address: 6152 Cleveland Ave, Columbus, OH 43231, United States
📞 Call: 614-882-5522
📧 Email: Laylakitchen614@gmail.com
Experience the royal flavors of India in the heart of Ohio. Visit us or order online to taste the best Chicken Makhani in town.