How To Compare Chicken Tikka Masala Vs Chicken Butter Masala: A Step-By-Step Guide

Chicken tikka masala and chicken butter masala are two of the most popular Indian dishes worldwide. Both dishes are creamy, flavorful, and satisfying, but they have distinct differences that set them apart. In this blog post, we will explore the origins, flavors, ingredients, and popularity of these two beloved curries, finally determining which one reigns supreme.

Origins

Chicken Tikka Masala

The origins of chicken tikka masala are shrouded in mystery. Some believe it originated in Scotland in the 1970s, while others claim it was created in Punjab, India, much earlier. Regardless of its true birthplace, chicken tikka masala has become a staple of Indian cuisine and is enjoyed by people worldwide.

Chicken Butter Masala

Chicken butter masala, on the other hand, is believed to have originated in Delhi, India, in the 1950s. It was created by Kundan Lal Jaggi, a restaurant owner who wanted to create a dish that would appeal to both Indian and Western palates. Chicken butter masala quickly gained popularity and is now one of the most famous Indian dishes globally.

Flavors

Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken tikka masala has a rich, creamy, and slightly tangy flavor. The yogurt and spices used in the marinade give the chicken a tender and flavorful texture, while the tomato-based sauce adds a vibrant red color and a hint of sweetness.

Chicken Butter Masala

Chicken butter masala has a creamy, buttery, and slightly sweet flavor. The use of butter and cream in the sauce gives the dish a rich and decadent texture, while the tomatoes and spices add a balanced sweetness and tanginess.

Ingredients

Chicken Tikka Masala

• Chicken tikka (grilled chicken marinated in yogurt and spices)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Yogurt
• Spices (such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala)
• Cream

Chicken Butter Masala

• Chicken (boneless, skinless chicken)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Butter
• Cream
• Spices (such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala)

Preparation

Chicken Tikka Masala

1. Marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices.
2. Grill the chicken until cooked through.
3. Sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a pan.
4. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices.
5. Simmer until the sauce has thickened.
6. Add the chicken and cream.
7. Simmer until the chicken is heated through.

Chicken Butter Masala

1. Brown the chicken in butter.
2. Sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a pan.
3. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices.
4. Simmer until the sauce has thickened.
5. Add the butter and cream.
6. Simmer until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Popularity

Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken tikka masala is the most popular Indian dish in the United Kingdom. It is also widely popular in other countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Chicken Butter Masala

Chicken butter masala is the second most popular Indian dish in the United Kingdom. It is also popular in other countries, but not to the same extent as chicken tikka masala.

The Verdict

So, which curry is better: chicken tikka masala or chicken butter masala? Ultimately, the best curry is the one that you enjoy the most. However, if you’re looking for a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying curry that is sure to please everyone, then chicken tikka masala is the way to go.

Questions You May Have

1. Which curry is more flavorful?

Both curries are flavorful, but chicken tikka masala has a slightly tangier flavor, while chicken butter masala has a richer, more buttery flavor.

2. Which curry is more popular?

Chicken tikka masala is more popular than chicken butter masala, especially in the United Kingdom.

3. Which curry is easier to make?

Both curries are relatively easy to make, but chicken butter masala is slightly more time-consuming due to the need to brown the chicken and simmer the sauce for a longer period.