Craving a taste of India? Dive into the world of Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken, a delightful Indian dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. This rich and creamy meal boasts tender chicken pieces cooked in a flavorful sauce, creating a taste sensation with every bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken is a dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients List
Chicken and Marinade Ingredients
- 800g chicken, boneless and skinless, cut into 3-4cm pieces
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and finely crushed
- 2cm ginger, peeled and finely grated
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- ½ tsp hot chili powder
- 1½ tbsp lemon juice
- 75ml natural yogurt
- ½ tsp garam masala (mixed Indian spices)
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1-2 tbsp vegetable oil, for brushing
Sauce Ingredients
- 1½ tbsp ghee or melted unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped
- 2cm ginger, peeled and finely chopped
- 1 cardamom pod, seeds lightly crushed
- 2 cloves
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp garam masala (mixed Indian spices)
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp hot chili powder, or to taste
- 275ml tomato puree
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 40g unsalted butter
- 100ml double cream
Garnish
- 1 tbsp chopped coriander, to garnish (optional)
Required Kitchen Tools
When preparing Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken, having the right kitchen tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you will need:
- Mixing Bowls: For combining the ingredients.
- Large Skillet or Wok: For cooking the chicken and sauce.
- Whisk or Spoon: For mixing the ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of the ingredients.
- Grater or Microplane: For grating the ginger and garlic.
- Basting Brush: To apply the oil to the chicken.
Having these tools on hand will set you up for a successful Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken cooking experience.
Chicken Preparation
Preparing the chicken for Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken is a crucial step in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Follow the steps below to marinate and cook the chicken properly.
Marinating the Chicken
To start the chicken preparation, combine the crushed garlic, grated ginger, fine sea salt, hot chili powder, and lemon juice in a mixing bowl. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat them evenly. Let the chicken marinate for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
After the initial marinade, add the natural yogurt, garam masala, ground turmeric, and ground cumin to the bowl. Mix well to coat the chicken thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results. This step ensures the chicken is tender and flavorful.
Cooking the Chicken
Preheat your grill or oven to high. Brush the marinated chicken pieces with vegetable oil and arrange them on a baking sheet. Grill or bake the chicken for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char. Remove the chicken from the oven and set it aside.
Preparing the Sauce
The sauce is what gives Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken its rich and creamy flavor. Follow these steps to create a delicious sauce that perfectly complements the marinated chicken.
Sautéing the Aromatics
In a large skillet or wok, heat the ghee or melted unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is hot, add the finely chopped garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic and ginger are fragrant and lightly golden.
Adding the Spices
Add the lightly crushed cardamom seeds, cloves, ground coriander, garam masala, ground turmeric, and hot chili powder to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aromas and flavors.
Incorporating the Tomato Puree
Pour the tomato puree into the skillet, stirring constantly to blend it with the spices and aromatics. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
Adding Lemon Juice and Butter
Stir in the lemon juice and 40g of unsalted butter into the sauce. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the butter to melt and incorporate into the sauce, adding richness and depth to the flavor.
Combining the Chicken and Sauce
Now that the sauce is ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Follow these steps to combine the chicken and sauce perfectly.
Adding the Chicken to the Sauce
Add the grilled or baked chicken pieces to the skillet with the sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb the rich, creamy sauce.
Adding the Cream
Stir in the double cream into the skillet. Mix well to incorporate the cream into the sauce, making it silky and smooth. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through and the sauce is well combined.
Adjusting the Seasoning
Taste the Butter Chicken and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, chili powder, or garam masala according to your preference. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of water or cream to achieve your desired consistency.
Serving and Storing
Once the Butter Chicken is perfectly cooked and flavored, it’s time to serve and enjoy. Follow these steps for the best presentation and storage tips.
Serving the Butter Chicken
Transfer the Butter Chicken to a serving dish. For a complete meal, consider serving the chicken with basmati rice, naan, or roti. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander for an added touch of color and flavor.
Suggested Accompaniments
Butter Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions to complement the rich and creamy flavors:
- Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is a perfect base to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Naan or Roti: These Indian breads are ideal for scooping up the creamy chicken and sauce.
- Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish helps balance the heat from the spices.
- Mango Chutney: Adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory chicken.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, allow the Butter Chicken to cool completely before storing. Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, it will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat the Butter Chicken while maintaining its flavor and texture, follow these steps:
Reheating on the Stovetop
- Prepare Pan: Heat a small amount of ghee or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Reheat Chicken: Add the chicken and sauce to the skillet and heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Reheating in the Microwave
- Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken and sauce on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a microwave-safe cover or another plate.
- Reheat: Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking at 1-minute intervals to ensure even heating.
Freezing for Longer Storage
For longer storage, you can freeze the Butter Chicken. Place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as instructed.
Conclusion
Mastering Gordon Ramsay’s Butter Chicken recipe opens up a world of delightful flavors. From the rich, creamy sauce to the tender, juicy chicken, each step ensures a delicious and satisfying meal. By following the detailed instructions provided, you can easily recreate the authentic taste and texture of Butter Chicken in your own kitchen. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the skillet or as leftovers, this dish is a versatile and flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire. So, grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on a delicious journey with this mouthwatering Butter Chicken recipe. Enjoy!