Given the apparent similarities between the two, it is understandable that some diners are confused by the inclusion of both Tikka Masala and Butter Chicken on menus, as they perceive them as one and the same.
However, they have their own unique characteristics. Butter Chicken is creamier and typically milder, while Tikka Masala tends to be spicier with a tangier tomato flavour.
Now, let’s take a closer look and explore the nuances of the two most beloved dishes.
The Famous Curries
Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken, also fondly known as Murgh Makhani, is a scrumptious North Indian delicacy celebrated for its rich, luscious sauce.
Once a modest creation, butter chicken has now earned its place as a classic dish, found in Indian restaurants across the world.
While many might be unfamiliar with the vast and diverse world of Indian food, the pair of Butter Chicken with Naan has managed to steal hearts everywhere and attain global stardom.
Like seriously, the curry often acts as a welcoming entry point for those eager to take an Indian culinary journey.
Tikka Masala
On the other hand, Tikka Masala is a flavourful, spicy curry. Its origins might be a topic of discussion, but there is no doubt about its amazing taste.
It is believed that Indian chefs in the UK adapted the traditional recipe to suit British palates and made the curry. Interestingly, the popularity of Chicken Tikka Masala is so immense that it is considered the national dish of England!
There is another story that goes, a simple request from a customer in Glasgow for a sauce with their dry chicken tikka led to this curry bursting with aromatic spices.
Whether these tales are true or not, it is safe to say that the curry is a fusion of Indian and foreign influences.
What’s The Difference?
Base Ingredients
The tender chicken, of course, is the star ingredient of both Butter Chicken and Tikka Masala, providing a protein-rich source to each dish.
Though these two dishes share many of the same ingredients, the way they are combined and cooked results in an entirely different eating experience.
But, as the name implies, Butter Chicken is a curry that generously makes use of butter. The mild seasonings, cream and sometimes the addition of cashew all come together to bring a depth of taste that is simply divine.
The delectable Tikka Masala has a more pronounced tomato taste due to its increased usage. The exquisite blend of spices also contributes to the robust flavour profile of the curry.
Cooking Techniques
Butter Chicken starts with marinating the boneless shredded chicken pieces in a blend of yoghurt and spices. It is then cooked in a tandoor.
As the tomatoes, butter and chosen spices are simmered, the thick, tasty sauce slowly but surely reaches perfection to tempt and tantalise your taste buds.
The cooked chicken is incorporated into the curry, giving the flavours time to mingle with each other. A dollop of cream will bring that satisfying indulgence to the dish.
In Tikka Masala, the succulent chicken is cubed and marinated before being grilled in the oven. Onions, garlic and ginger are sauteed until they are golden, to which the tomatoes and selected spices are mixed.
The smoky chicken then joins the sauce and what you get is an exciting mouth-watering curry that you will remember for a long time.
Colour
One of the things that sets Tikka Masala apart is its brighter, more intense red hue. Tomato puree is what lends the curry its beautiful colour. The spices also have a role to play in the reddish tone of the dish.
Oh, Butter Chicken boasts a richer, deeper orange-red colour. The softer and slightly muted hue of the curry, when compared to Tikka Masala, is because of the presence of the cream.
Both these dishes are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. Feasts for the senses, indeed!
Taste
On any given day, a bowl of Butter Chicken is a true comfort food. It is a dish that never gets old; one that gives you that sense of nostalgia in every bite.
You can enjoy it over and over again without ever growing weary of its familiar flavours. The sauce is smooth and slightly sweet, perfectly complementing the chicken.
This curry promises to keep your palate entertained. It is rich enough to be appetising but never overpowering. With the spice level on the milder side, the creamy, buttery flavours really stand out, well, in a delicious way.
Meanwhile, Tikka Masala serves up a dynamic layer of tastes that surely gets your love and attention. The slightly sour tang of the tomato sauce balances the indulgent creaminess and subtle sweetness of the dish.
In contrast to Butter Chicken, this curry has a good spicy kick that hits the right notes. Those beautifully charred edges of the chicken add a subtle smokiness to the curry.
While the sauce is thick, it does not have the same creamy consistency as Butter Chicken. Nevertheless, both dishes are lip-smacking and have rightfully gained international recognition. Well, it is easy to see why!
What To Eat With These Curries?
Every curry needs a partner to create a complete and enjoyable meal. There are several excellent choices to accompany Tikka Masala and Butter Chicken. Here are some great pairings:
▪︎ Flatbreads: Soft naan, humble roti or flaky parathas are ideal for soaking up and savouring the curry.
▪︎ Rice Dishes: Long-grained Basmati rice or fluffy jeera rice goes really well with the scrumptious gravy of Butter Chicken or Tikka masala.
▪︎ Poppadoms: Crispy, thin wafers made from lentil flour, which provide a nice crunch, are fantastic accompaniments to the dish.
The Madras Diaries: Curry Lover’s Paradise
We, at The Madras Diaries, present an extraordinary menu of Indian curries, including the iconic Butter Chicken and more.
Our kitchen team pours heart and soul into preparing every meal to give you the best flavours. So, join us to celebrate the love for good food!
