Barbecued Butter Chicken is a mouthwatering fusion of smoky barbecue flavors and rich Indian butter chicken sauce. Tender chicken is marinated in aromatic spices, yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice before being grilled or barbecued to perfection. The charred, smoky exterior pairs beautifully with the creamy tomato-butter sauce, creating a bold and unforgettable dish packed with flavor.Inspired by the famous Indian classic known as Murgh Makhani, this version elevates traditional butter chicken by incorporating barbecue cooking techniques.
Barbecued Butter Chicken:
Grilling the chicken over open flames adds a deep smoky aroma that perfectly complements the velvety sauce made with butter, cream, tomatoes, and warm spices. The result is a luxurious dish that feels both rustic and restaurant-worthy.Perfect for family dinners, summer cookouts, or festive occasions, Barbecued Butter Chicken is best served with naan bread, basmati rice, or grilled vegetables. Its balance of spice, creaminess, and smoky richness makes it one of the most satisfying chicken dishes you can prepare at home.
History:
Butter Chicken originated in Delhi, India, during the 1950s at the legendary restaurant Moti Mahal. Chefs created the dish by combining leftover tandoori chicken with a rich tomato and butter gravy, resulting in one of the most iconic Indian recipes ever made.Traditional butter chicken is typically cooked in a tandoor oven, which gives the chicken its signature smoky flavor. Over time, modern adaptations introduced grilling and barbecue techniques to recreate that charred flavor at home. This led to the evolution of Barbecued Butter Chicken, where marinated chicken is cooked on grills or barbecues before being added to creamy masala sauce.
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Barbecued Butter Chicken with Creamy Tomato Masala Sauce
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1½ pounds chicken thighs or breasts, cut into pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons oil
For the Butter Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups tomato puree
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, cumin, salt, and oil. Add chicken and marinate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat grill or barbecue to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until lightly charred and cooked through.
- Heat butter and oil in a pan. Sauté onions until golden, then add garlic and ginger. Stir in tomato puree and spices. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add cream and honey to the sauce. Mix well, then add grilled chicken pieces. Simmer for 5 minutes until coated and flavorful.
- Garnish with cilantro and cream drizzle. Serve hot with naan or rice.
Notes
- Chicken thighs remain more tender after grilling.
- Yogurt helps tenderize the chicken beautifully.
- Charred grill marks enhance authentic flavor.
- Kashmiri chili powder gives vibrant color with mild heat.
- Heavy cream creates a silky sauce texture.
- Butter adds richness and depth.
- Tomato puree should be smooth for best consistency.
- Fresh cilantro brightens the dish before serving.
Tips for Barbecued Butter Chicken:
- Marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
- Use charcoal grilling for extra smokiness.
- Avoid overcooking chicken to keep it juicy.
- Blend the sauce for a restaurant-style smooth finish.
- Add extra butter for richer flavor.
- Serve with warm garlic naan.
- Use smoked paprika for additional barbecue aroma.
- Add a pinch of fenugreek leaves for authentic butter chicken taste.
FAQs for Barbecued Butter Chicken:
1. Is Barbecued Butter Chicken spicy?
It is mildly spicy, but you can adjust the chili level easily.
2. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, though thighs stay juicier on the grill.
3. What is the difference between butter chicken and tikka masala?
Butter chicken is creamier and slightly sweeter than tikka masala.
4. Can I make this dish without a grill?
Yes, use a grill pan or oven broiler.
5. What sides pair best with this dish?
Naan bread, basmati rice, cucumber salad, or roasted vegetables.
6. Can I freeze butter chicken?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months in airtight containers.
7. How long can leftovers be refrigerated?
Store for up to 3 days.
8. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream and dairy-free butter alternatives.
Conclusion:
Barbecued Butter Chicken is the perfect combination of smoky grilled chicken and luxurious creamy tomato sauce. The bold spices, buttery richness, and barbecue-charred flavor create a deeply satisfying dish that feels comforting yet elegant. Whether served for a weekend barbecue, festive celebration, or cozy dinner, this recipe brings authentic Indian-inspired flavor with a delicious smoky twist that everyone will love.