How Butter Chicken Became an All-Time Global Favourite

Butter chicken, or murgh makhani, is a dish with a rich history dating back to the 1950s in Delhi, India. This beloved Indian dish was created at the famous Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi by Kundan Lal Gujral and Kundan Lal Jaggi, who were Punjabi refugees that moved to Delhi after the Partition of India. The creation of butter chicken was born out of a need to avoid wastage.  By combining Leftover tandoori chicken with a creamy tomato-based sauce enriched with butter and a unique blend of aromatic spices, they crafted a recipe that would soon become a global favourite. 

The distinct, velvety sauce of butter chicken is made from tomatoes, butter, and a blend of spices, giving it its unique, rich taste. What started as a local delicacy rapidly spread globally thanks to the Indian diaspora. The dish's rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken appealed to a wide audience, making it a staple in Indian restaurants worldwide. By the 1970s, butter chicken had made its way onto menus in restaurants around the world, including the renowned Gaylord Indian restaurant in Manhattan, where it was listed as a specialty dish. 

The preparation of butter chicken involves marinating chicken in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and various spices. This marinated chicken is then cooked in a tandoor (a traditional clay oven), imparting a smoky flavour and tender texture. The cooked chicken is then simmered in a creamy tomato sauce enriched with butter and a complex blend of spices such as garam masala, cumin, cloves, cinnamon, and fenugreek, among others. This dish can be served with naan, rice, or used as a filling in wraps and pies, showcasing its versatility.

At Salad Servers Direct, we take pride in offering you a taste of authentic Indian cuisine with our delectable butter chicken. Our recipe stays true to its origins, using only the freshest ingredients and a meticulous cooking process to ensure that every bite is rich, flavourful, and satisfying.

Our butter chicken is perfect for any occasion, whether you're looking for a comforting meal at home or an impressive dish to serve to guests. It pairs beautifully with naan bread or saffron infused basmati rice, making it a versatile addition to your dining table. With our convenient online ordering you can bring the rich tradition of butter chicken straight to your doorstep. Our authentic Indian butter chicken is not just a meal; it's an experience of taste and tradition that you'll want to savour again and again.