The History of Butter Chicken: From Its Roots to Worldwide Fame

When it comes to Indian cuisine, few dishes are as iconic and beloved as butter chicken. This rich, creamy dish is a staple in menus all around the world, but have you ever stopped to wonder where it came from? In this article, we'll explore the fascinating story behind the origins and rise to fame of this delicious dish.

The Origins of Butter Chicken

Butter chicken, or murgh makhani as it is known in Hindi, originated in the northern Indian state of Punjab. The dish was created in the 1950s by Kundan Lal Gujral, the owner of a famous restaurant in Peshawar, which is now part of Pakistan. According to legend, Gujral was looking for a way to use up leftover tandoori chicken, which tends to dry out quickly. He combined the chicken with a rich tomato and butter sauce, and butter chicken was born.

The Rise to Fame of Butter Chicken

Butter chicken quickly became a sensation in India, and it wasn't long before it caught on in other parts of the world. In the 1970s, it was introduced to the United Kingdom by Bangladeshi chefs, who were working in Indian restaurants. From there, it spread to other parts of Europe, and eventually made its way to North America. Today, butter chicken is enjoyed by millions of people all around the world, and is considered one of the most popular Indian dishes.

Despite its humble beginnings, butter chicken became associated with luxury and indulgence. This was partly due to the richness of the dish, which is made with cream, butter, and other high-fat ingredients. It was also due to its popularity among the upper classes in India, who viewed it as a symbol of sophistication and refinement.

However, in recent years, this perception has changed. Butter chicken has become more accessible and widely available, and is now enjoyed by people of all social classes in India, as well as all around the world.

Have you ever tried making it at home? We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts and our work on social media using the hashtag #hiverecipes, join the conversation about one of the world's most beloved dishes.