Best Butter Chicken In Malaysia: Recipes & Guide

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the delectable world of Butter Chicken in Malaysia? This creamy, dreamy dish has captured the hearts (and stomachs!) of food lovers everywhere, and for good reason. If you are craving that rich, flavorful experience, you've come to the right place. Let's explore everything about butter chicken in Malaysia, from its origins and variations to the best spots to try it and how to make it yourself. Get your aprons ready; it's going to be a delicious journey!

What is Butter Chicken?

Before we delve into the Malaysian scene, let’s get down to the basics. Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a classic Indian dish that originated in Delhi in the 1950s. It was the brainchild of Kundan Lal Jaggi, the founder of Moti Mahal restaurant. The dish was created as a way to prevent leftover tandoori chicken from going to waste. Jaggi and his team developed a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce that not only rejuvenated the chicken but also elevated it to new culinary heights. The combination of tandoori chicken simmered in a buttery, creamy tomato sauce is what makes butter chicken so irresistible. The sauce is typically flavored with aromatic spices like garam masala, ginger, garlic, and a touch of fenugreek leaves, which add a unique sweetness and depth of flavor. It is the perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and savory notes, all wrapped up in a velvety smooth texture. You might be wondering what makes it so special? The key lies in the perfect balance of spices and the richness of the cream and butter. This harmony creates a comforting and indulgent dish that's hard to resist. Butter chicken quickly gained popularity across India and eventually made its way to the global culinary stage. Today, you can find it in Indian restaurants worldwide, each offering its unique twist on the classic recipe. But what makes the Malaysian butter chicken scene so unique? Let's find out!

The Malaysian Twist

Now, let’s talk about butter chicken in Malaysia. While the core essence of the dish remains the same, Malaysian chefs have added their own spin, incorporating local flavors and ingredients. Malaysia, being a melting pot of cultures, has a vibrant food scene that draws influences from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other Southeast Asian cuisines. This rich culinary diversity is reflected in the Malaysian version of butter chicken. One of the most notable differences is the level of spiciness. While traditional butter chicken is relatively mild, Malaysian variations often pack a bit more heat, appealing to the local palate that loves a good chili kick. Some chefs add fresh chilies, chili powder, or even a touch of sambal to the sauce, creating a fiery and flavorful dish. Another common twist is the use of local ingredients. For example, you might find butter chicken infused with the fragrant aroma of curry leaves or pandan leaves, adding a unique Southeast Asian touch. Some recipes also incorporate coconut milk for an extra layer of creaminess and sweetness, which is a staple in Malaysian cuisine. The way the chicken is prepared can also vary. While tandoori chicken is the traditional choice, some Malaysian restaurants use fried chicken or even chicken marinated in local spices before being added to the sauce. This gives the chicken a different texture and flavor profile, adding another dimension to the dish. Malaysian butter chicken often features a garnish of fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lime juice, which brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zest. It's these small but significant tweaks that make Malaysian butter chicken a unique and exciting culinary experience. So, what are some of the must-try spots for butter chicken in Malaysia? Let's explore!

Best Places to Try Butter Chicken in Malaysia

If you’re on the hunt for the best butter chicken in Malaysia, you're in for a treat! Malaysia boasts a plethora of restaurants and eateries that serve up fantastic versions of this beloved dish. From upscale dining establishments to humble mamak stalls, there’s something for every palate and budget. Let's explore some of the top spots where you can indulge in this creamy delight. First on the list is Kayra Authentic Kerala Cuisine in Kuala Lumpur. Known for its authentic South Indian flavors, Kayra’s butter chicken is a standout. They use high-quality ingredients and a traditional recipe, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish that will transport you straight to Kerala. The creamy, aromatic sauce and tender chicken pieces make it a must-try for any butter chicken enthusiast. Next up, we have Restoran Nagaria, another gem in Kuala Lumpur. This restaurant is famous for its North Indian cuisine, and their butter chicken is no exception. The dish is prepared with a generous amount of butter and cream, giving it a luxurious and indulgent texture. The spices are perfectly balanced, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving more. Don't forget to pair it with their freshly baked naan bread for the ultimate experience! If you're in Penang, be sure to check out Passage Thru India. This restaurant offers a wide range of Indian dishes, but their butter chicken is a crowd favorite. The chefs here add a special touch of Malaysian spices, giving the dish a unique and flavorful twist. The chicken is incredibly tender, and the sauce is rich and creamy with a hint of spice that will tantalize your taste buds. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, many mamak stalls across Malaysia serve delicious butter chicken at affordable prices. While the recipes may vary from stall to stall, you can often find incredibly flavorful and satisfying versions of the dish. These stalls offer a more casual dining experience, but the quality of the food is often surprisingly high. Last but not least, don't overlook the hotel restaurants. Many five-star hotels in Malaysia have Indian restaurants that serve exceptional butter chicken. These establishments often use the finest ingredients and employ skilled chefs who are masters of their craft. While the prices may be higher, the dining experience and the quality of the food are well worth the splurge. So, whether you're in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or any other part of Malaysia, there's a fantastic butter chicken experience waiting for you. Now, let’s move on to the fun part: making your own butter chicken at home!

Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe

Want to bring the magic of butter chicken into your own kitchen? You're in luck! Making butter chicken at home is easier than you might think, and the results are incredibly rewarding. With a few key ingredients and a little patience, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish that will impress your friends and family. Let's break down a simple yet delicious recipe for homemade butter chicken. First, you'll need to gather your ingredients. For the chicken marinade, you'll need about 500g of boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces), 2 tablespoons of yogurt, 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste, 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of garam masala, and salt to taste. Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing it with flavor and ensuring it stays tender and juicy during cooking. Combine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl, add the chicken, and mix well. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the chicken. Next, let's prepare the sauce. You'll need 2 tablespoons of butter, 1 large onion (finely chopped), 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste, 400g of crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of chili powder (adjust to your spice preference), 1 teaspoon of garam masala, 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), 1/2 cup of cream, and salt to taste. The sauce is the heart of butter chicken, so it's important to get it just right. Start by melting the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown. This step is crucial for developing the base flavor of the sauce. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the crushed tomatoes, chili powder, garam masala, sugar, and salt. Stir well and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together. While the sauce is simmering, you can cook the marinated chicken. There are a couple of ways to do this. Traditionally, the chicken is cooked in a tandoor oven, which imparts a smoky flavor. However, if you don't have a tandoor, you can pan-fry or grill the chicken. Heat a little oil in a pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken in batches until it is cooked through and slightly charred. Alternatively, you can grill the chicken on a barbecue or grill pan for a similar smoky effect. Once the chicken is cooked, add it to the simmering sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken with the sauce. If you want a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until it is silky smooth. This is optional, but it can enhance the texture of the dish. Finally, stir in the cream and crushed fenugreek leaves. The cream adds richness and creaminess to the sauce, while the fenugreek leaves impart a unique sweetness and aroma. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with naan bread, rice, or roti. Voila! You’ve just made your own delicious butter chicken at home. This recipe is a great starting point, and you can always tweak it to suit your preferences. Feel free to add more or less chili powder, adjust the amount of cream, or experiment with different spices. The beauty of homemade cooking is that you have complete control over the flavors and ingredients. So, what are some tips and tricks to make your butter chicken even better? Let’s find out!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Butter Chicken

To truly master the art of making butter chicken, there are a few tips and tricks that can elevate your dish from good to exceptional. These little secrets will help you achieve that perfect balance of flavors, textures, and aromas that make butter chicken so irresistible. Let's dive in! First and foremost, quality ingredients are key. Using fresh, high-quality spices, tomatoes, and cream will make a noticeable difference in the final product. Opt for whole spices whenever possible and grind them yourself for the freshest flavor. Fresh ginger and garlic paste is also preferable to the pre-made versions. When it comes to tomatoes, canned crushed tomatoes are a convenient option, but if you have the time, using fresh tomatoes that have been blanched, peeled, and pureed will result in a brighter, more vibrant sauce. The type of cream you use also matters. Heavy cream or double cream will give you the richest and creamiest sauce, but you can also use a lighter cream if you prefer. Another important tip is to marinate the chicken for as long as possible. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Aim for at least 2 hours, but marinating it overnight is even better. The yogurt in the marinade helps to tenderize the chicken, while the spices infuse it with flavor. Don't skip this step! Cooking the onions properly is also crucial for a flavorful sauce. Sauté the chopped onions in butter over medium heat until they are golden brown and caramelized. This process releases the natural sugars in the onions and creates a depth of flavor that is essential for a good butter chicken sauce. Be patient and don't rush this step. Simmering the sauce for an adequate amount of time is another key to success. Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. Aim for at least 15-20 minutes of simmering, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If you want a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to blend it until it is silky smooth. Adding a touch of sweetness can also enhance the flavor of butter chicken. A little sugar or honey helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and adds a subtle sweetness that complements the other flavors. Don't overdo it, though – you want just a hint of sweetness, not an overly sweet dish. Fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) are a key ingredient in butter chicken and add a unique sweetness and aroma. Before adding them to the sauce, crush them lightly between your palms to release their fragrance. This will intensify their flavor and aroma. Finishing with cream and butter is what gives butter chicken its signature richness and creaminess. Stir in the cream and a knob of butter at the end of cooking, and simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This final touch makes all the difference. Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different spices and ingredients to create your own unique version of butter chicken. Add a touch of heat with chili powder or fresh chilies, or incorporate other spices like cardamom or cinnamon for a more complex flavor profile. The possibilities are endless! So, now that you're armed with these tips and tricks, you're well on your way to making the perfect butter chicken. But what about serving suggestions? Let's explore some delicious ways to enjoy this classic dish.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you've mastered the art of making butter chicken, it's time to think about serving it. The right accompaniments can elevate your meal from great to unforgettable, so let's explore some delicious serving suggestions that will perfectly complement this creamy and flavorful dish. First and foremost, naan bread is a classic pairing with butter chicken. The soft, pillowy texture of naan is perfect for soaking up the rich, creamy sauce. Whether you opt for plain naan, garlic naan, or butter naan, this is a match made in culinary heaven. For a gluten-free option, consider serving butter chicken with rice. Basmati rice is a popular choice, as its long grains and delicate aroma pair beautifully with the dish. You can also try jeera rice (rice cooked with cumin seeds) or saffron rice for added flavor and color. If you're looking for a healthier option, roti is a great choice. Roti is a type of Indian flatbread made from whole wheat flour, which is more nutritious than naan. It has a slightly nutty flavor that complements the richness of the butter chicken. In addition to bread and rice, dal (lentil stew) is another excellent accompaniment. Dal adds a hearty and flavorful element to the meal and provides a good source of protein and fiber. Black dal (dal makhani) is a particularly good choice, as it has a rich and creamy texture that complements the butter chicken perfectly. Vegetable sides are also a must for a well-rounded meal. Saag paneer (spinach and cheese) is a classic Indian side dish that pairs wonderfully with butter chicken. The earthy flavor of the spinach and the creamy texture of the paneer provide a nice contrast to the richness of the butter chicken. Other vegetable options include aloo gobi (potatoes and cauliflower), baingan bharta (eggplant mash), and vegetable biryani. To add a refreshing element to your meal, serve a raita on the side. Raita is a yogurt-based condiment that is typically flavored with cucumbers, onions, and spices. It has a cooling effect that helps to balance the richness of the butter chicken. For a simple raita, mix plain yogurt with grated cucumber, chopped onion, cumin powder, and salt. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. A salad can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the butter chicken. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is a good choice, or you can try a more elaborate salad with ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. To finish off your meal, consider serving a dessert that is light and refreshing. Gulab jamun (deep-fried milk balls in syrup) is a classic Indian dessert, but it can be quite rich. A lighter option is mango lassi, a yogurt-based drink that is flavored with mangoes. It's sweet, tangy, and incredibly refreshing. Finally, don't forget the garnishes. A sprinkle of fresh coriander leaves adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish, while a squeeze of lime juice brightens up the flavors. A dollop of cream or a drizzle of butter can also add an extra touch of richness. So, there you have it – a plethora of serving suggestions to make your butter chicken meal truly special. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these accompaniments will elevate your dining experience. Now, let’s wrap things up with a final thought.

Final Thoughts

So, guys, we've journeyed through the delicious world of butter chicken in Malaysia, exploring its history, Malaysian twists, must-try spots, homemade recipes, and serving suggestions. It’s clear that butter chicken is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. Its rich, creamy texture and harmonious blend of spices make it a comforting and indulgent treat that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're dining out at a fancy restaurant, grabbing a quick bite at a mamak stall, or cooking up a storm in your own kitchen, the magic of butter chicken is undeniable. The Malaysian adaptation of this classic Indian dish showcases the country's vibrant culinary scene, blending traditional flavors with local ingredients and spices. From the fiery kick of chilies to the fragrant aroma of curry leaves, Malaysian butter chicken offers a unique and exciting twist on the original. Making butter chicken at home is a rewarding experience that allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that will impress your friends and family. And when it comes to serving, the possibilities are endless. Whether you pair it with naan bread, rice, dal, or vegetable sides, butter chicken is sure to be the star of the show. Ultimately, the beauty of butter chicken lies in its versatility and its ability to bring people together. It’s a dish that transcends cultures and cuisines, offering a taste of comfort and indulgence that is universally loved. So, the next time you're craving something creamy, flavorful, and satisfying, look no further than butter chicken. Whether you're in Malaysia or anywhere else in the world, this dish is sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. Happy cooking and happy eating!