Best Palak Butter Chicken Recipe 2024 : A Nutritious Twist on a Classic Favorite

Introduction of Palak Butter Chicken

Palak Butter Chicken is a delightful fusion dish that combines the rich flavors of traditional Butter Chicken with the nutritious benefits of spinach (palak). This recipe offers a creamy, savory experience that’s not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals. Whether you’re a fan of classic Butter Chicken or looking to incorporate more greens into your diet, this Palak Butter Chicken recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

1. What is Palak Butter Chicken?

Palak Butter Chicken is a variation of the classic Indian dish Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani), where spinach is blended into the creamy tomato-based sauce. This dish offers a beautiful green hue, enhanced flavor, and added nutritional benefits from the spinach. It’s an excellent way to enjoy Butter Chicken with a healthy twist.

2. History of Butter Chicken

Butter Chicken, or Murgh Makhani, originated in the 1950s in Delhi, India, at the Moti Mahal restaurant. It was created by mixing leftover tandoori chicken with a rich tomato gravy, butter, and cream. Over the years, Butter Chicken has become a beloved dish worldwide, known for its creamy texture and mildly spiced flavor.

3. Health Benefits of Spinach (Palak)

Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients. It is rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and K. Including spinach in your diet can boost your immune system, improve skin health, and contribute to strong bones. Adding spinach to Butter Chicken not only enhances the nutritional value but also provides a vibrant green color and subtle earthy flavor.

4. Ingredients Required

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 500 grams boneless chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste

For the Spinach Puree:

• 200 grams fresh spinach leaves (washed and blanched)
• 1 green chili
• 1 tablespoon water

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 large tomatoes (pureed)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cream (for garnish)
• Fresh coriander leaves (chopped, for garnish)

5. Step-by-Step Preparation

Marinating the Chicken

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt.
2. Add Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.
3. Marinate: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Preparing the Spinach Puree

1. Blanch Spinach: Blanch the spinach leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Drain and immediately transfer to ice-cold water to retain the green color.
2. Blend: In a blender, combine the blanched spinach and green chili with a tablespoon of water. Blend to a smooth puree.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Heat Oil and Butter: In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Cook Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces and cook until they are lightly browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Making the Gravy

1. Sauté Onions: In the same pan, add the remaining butter and finely chopped onions. Sauté until golden brown.
2. Add Ginger-Garlic Paste: Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
3. Tomato Puree: Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
4. Spices: Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.
5. Add Spinach Puree: Add the spinach puree to the gravy and mix well. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.
6. Cream and Garam Masala: Stir in the heavy cream and garam masala. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Combine Chicken and Gravy: Add the cooked chicken pieces to the gravy and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

6. Cooking Methods

Stovetop

1. Follow Steps: Follow the steps outlined above for marinating, cooking the chicken, and making the gravy.
2. Simmer: Simmer the chicken in the gravy on the stovetop for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Instant Pot

1. Marinate Chicken: Marinate the chicken as per the instructions.
2. Sauté Mode: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add oil and butter, then sauté onions, ginger-garlic paste, and tomato puree as directed.
3. Add Chicken and Spices: Add the marinated chicken, spinach puree, and spices. Mix well.
4. Pressure Cook: Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 10 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
5. Add Cream: Open the lid, stir in the heavy cream, and set to sauté mode for an additional 5 minutes.

Slow Cooker

1. Marinate Chicken: Marinate the chicken according to the recipe.
2. Sauté: Sauté the onions, ginger-garlic paste, and tomato puree in a pan as directed.
3. Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed mixture, marinated chicken, and spinach puree to the slow cooker.
4. Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Finish: Stir in the heavy cream 30 minutes before serving.

7. Tips for Perfect Palak Butter Chicken

• Marination Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours to ensure it absorbs all the flavors.
• Blanch Spinach: Blanching spinach helps retain its vibrant green color and nutrients.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh tomatoes and spinach for the best taste.
• Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the gravy by adding water or cream as per your preference.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chili and red chili powder to control the spice level.

8. Serving Suggestions

Palak Butter Chicken pairs well with a variety of Indian breads and rice dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Naan: Soft and fluffy naan bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy gravy.
• Roti: Whole wheat roti makes for a healthier accompaniment.
• Jeera Rice: Aromatic cumin rice complements the flavors of the dish.
• Plain Basmati Rice: Simple and fragrant, basmati rice is a classic choice.

9. Nutritional Information

Here’s a general nutritional breakdown for one serving of Palak Butter Chicken (approx. 1 cup):

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
• Fat: 20-25 grams
• Fiber: 3-4 grams

Note: Nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)