Chicken tikka masala and butter chicken are two of the most popular Indian dishes around the world. Both dishes are made with boneless chicken pieces, but they differ in their preparation methods, flavors, and ingredients. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between chicken tikka masala and butter chicken.
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Chicken Tikka Masala v/s Butter Chicken |
Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken tikka masala is a dish that originated in the Indian subcontinent but is now enjoyed worldwide. It consists of boneless chicken pieces that are marinated in a mixture of yogurt, spices, and lemon juice, then grilled or baked until cooked through. The chicken is then simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce that is flavored with spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The dish is typically served with rice or naan bread.
Butter Chicken
Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a popular North Indian dish that is made by cooking boneless chicken pieces in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. The chicken is first marinated in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices, then grilled or baked until cooked through. The sauce is made by cooking tomatoes, onions, and spices in butter until they are soft and flavorful. The chicken is then added to the sauce and simmered until it is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Butter chicken is typically served with rice or naan bread.
Differences between Chicken Tikka Masala and Butter Chicken
While both chicken tikka masala and butter chicken are creamy, tomato-based dishes that feature boneless chicken pieces, they have some key differences.
Marination: In chicken tikka masala, the chicken is first marinated in a yogurt-based mixture that includes spices and lemon juice, then grilled or baked before being added to the tomato-based sauce. In contrast, butter chicken is also marinated in a yogurt-based mixture, but the chicken is usually not grilled or baked before being added to the sauce.
Spices: Chicken tikka masala is typically flavored with spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala, which give it a slightly tangy and spicy flavor. Butter chicken, on the other hand, is typically milder in flavor, with a more buttery, creamy taste. It is often flavored with more subtle spices, such as fenugreek and cardamom.
Tomato base: Both dishes feature a tomato-based sauce, but the tomato sauce used in chicken tikka masala is typically thicker and more robust in flavor than the one used in butter chicken, which is usually more creamy and velvety.
Serving style: Chicken tikka masala is often served as a standalone dish with rice or naan bread, while butter chicken is often served as part of a larger meal with other dishes, such as dal and vegetable curries.
Conclusion :
In conclusion, chicken tikka masala and butter chicken are both delicious Indian dishes that feature boneless chicken pieces cooked in creamy, tomato-based sauces. While they share some similarities in their preparation methods and ingredients, they also have some key differences in their flavors and serving styles. Ultimately, which dish you prefer will likely come down to personal taste. Whether you prefer a tangy, spicy flavor or a rich, creamy taste, both dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings for Indian cuisine. So why not try both and decide which one you like best?