Join us for a culinary journey with Shandhar Hut’s Butter Chicken, our crown jewel that represents the pinnacle of North Indian cuisine with its unparalleled richness and sophistication. Our master chefs have perfected this iconic recipe, bringing you the most authentic and luxurious taste of India’s most celebrated dish here in Chilliwack. Tender pieces of tandoori chicken are enveloped in a velvety tomato-based gravy, enriched with cream, butter, and an intricate blend of spices to achieve a harmony of flavors that’s simply magical. The result is a dish that’s both elegant and comforting, showcasing the perfect balance between the smokiness of tandoor-cooked chicken, the richness of the gravy, and the complex layering of spices. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Indian cuisine or new to its pleasures, our Butter Chicken is sure to enchant your senses. It’s exceptional as a main course, perfect for sharing, and creates an unforgettable dining experience when paired with our freshly baked naan or aromatic basmati rice. Ideal for a romantic dinner, family celebration, or any special occasion, Shandhar Hut’s Butter Chicken offers a sublime combination of flavors that will transport you to the grand dining rooms of Delhi with each luxurious bite.

Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) stands as one of India’s most celebrated culinary innovations, with a fascinating origin story that dates back to the 1950s in Delhi. The dish was created by Kundan Lal Gujral at his restaurant Moti Mahal, marking a revolutionary moment in Indian culinary history.

The creation of Butter Chicken was born from culinary innovation and practical necessity. Gujral, seeking a way to prevent leftover tandoori chicken from drying out, developed a rich, buttery tomato-based gravy that would both rehydrate and transform the chicken into something entirely new. This ingenious solution soon became more popular than the original tandoori chicken itself.

The dish emerged during a pivotal time in post-independence India, when Delhi was experiencing significant changes due to partition. Many talented chefs from undivided Punjab brought their expertise to Delhi, contributing to a dynamic culinary scene. Moti Mahal, under Gujral’s leadership, became a legendary establishment, serving Butter Chicken to dignitaries, including Indian prime ministers and international heads of state.

The original recipe was refined over years of preparation, with the perfect balance of tanginess from the tomatoes, richness from cream and butter, and the subtle smokiness of tandoor-cooked chicken becoming its hallmark. The gravy’s signature orange-red color and silky texture became the standard by which all versions of Butter Chicken would be judged.

As Indian cuisine gained global recognition, Butter Chicken became an international sensation, often considered the gateway dish to Indian cuisine for many newcomers. While countless variations exist worldwide, the essence of the original recipe – that perfect balance of flavors and textures – remains the benchmark of authenticity.

Today, at Shandhar Hut, we honor this rich legacy by preparing our Butter Chicken according to traditional methods, staying true to the vision of its creators while delighting a new generation of food lovers with this timeless dish.

It is our mission to become Chilliwack’s best restaurant for authentic Indian cuisine, and we believe the secret to our exceptional Butter Chicken lies in our commitment to traditional techniques and premium ingredients. We start with tender, locally-sourced chicken, marinated in yogurt and spices, then perfectly charred in our traditional tandoor to impart a distinct smoky flavor. The foundation of our signature gravy begins with ripe tomatoes, carefully selected and slow-cooked until they develop a deep, rich sweetness. Our spice blend is a carefully guarded recipe, featuring the warmth of Kashmiri chilies, the aromatic notes of cardamom, and the subtle complexity of fenugreek leaves. Fresh ginger and garlic paste add depth and character, while honey brings a delicate sweetness that balances the tanginess of the tomatoes. We also incorporate traditional spices like garam masala and kasoori methi, essential for creating that authentic Butter Chicken flavor profile. The gravy is simmered slowly and finished with pure cream and generous amounts of butter, which create that distinctive velvety texture and rich mouthfeel. Each batch is carefully monitored to achieve the perfect consistency – thick enough to coat the chicken pieces yet smooth enough to be enjoyed with naan or rice. Just before serving, a final touch of butter and cream is added to create that signature glossy finish and rich, indulgent flavor. The result is a dish that’s creamy, deeply flavorful, and perfectly balanced – a true representation of classic North Indian cuisine and a testament to our commitment to culinary excellence here at Shandhar Hut.

Embark on a culinary journey through the diverse flavors of India at Shandhar Hut. Our menu showcases a rich tapestry of traditional and contemporary dishes, from sizzling tandoor specialties to aromatic curries and vegetarian delights. Savor the crunch of our hand-crafted appetizers, indulge in our signature house curries, or explore the smoky depths of our tandoor-grilled meats and seafood. With gluten-free and dairy-free options available, we cater to all palates and dietary needs.