butter chicken and rice recipe

butter chicken and rice recipe

The Best butter chicken and rice recipe

I’m so excited to share this butter chicken and rice recipe with you all. This dish is a staple in many Indian households, and for good reason – it’s a perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors that will leave you wanting more.

The origins of this recipe are a bit unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in the Indian subcontinent, where it was known as ‘murgh makhani’ or ‘chicken in butter sauce’. Over time, the recipe has evolved and been adapted by various cooks to include a variety of spices and ingredients.

But at its core, the dish remains a simple yet elegant combination of tender chicken cooked in a rich and creamy sauce made with butter, tomatoes, and spices. As a busy mom, I love that this recipe is easy to make and can be adapted to suit any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a holiday feast.

And let me tell you, my kids absolutely adore this dish – they can’t get enough of that creamy sauce! In fact, I’ve found that this recipe is just as delicious the next day as it is fresh out of the oven.

So go ahead and give it a try – I promise you won’t be disappointed! This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too.

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it with basmati rice, naan bread, or even over egg noodles for a twist on the classic dish. And don’t even get me started on the health benefits – this recipe is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you full and satisfied all day long.

Butter Chicken and Rice

Butter Chicken and Rice

4.9 from 1574 votes

A classic Indian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. Served over fluffy basmati rice, this comforting meal is perfect for weeknight dinners.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 550 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

500g boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp salt

For the Butter Sauce

2 tbsp butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp garam masala
1/2 tsp sugar
Salt to taste
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Rice

1 cup basmati rice
2 cups water
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp butter (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt.
2Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
3Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
4Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
5In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and 1/2 tsp salt to a boil over high heat.
6Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
7Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
8While the rice cooks, melt 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
9Add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
10Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
11In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
12Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for 1 minute until fragrant.
13Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the sauce to a simmer.
14Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and deepens in color.
15Stir in the heavy cream, garam masala, and sugar, then season with salt to taste.
16Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat it evenly with the sauce.
17Simmer for 3-4 minutes over low heat until the chicken is heated through and the flavors meld.
18Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over the prepared basmati rice.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl
Large skillet or pan
Medium saucepan with lid
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 550 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 180mg🧂Sodium: 950mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

For a milder dish, reduce the chili powder. You can substitute chicken breast for thighs, but reduce cooking time slightly to avoid dryness. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Butter Chicken and Rice Works

This butter chicken and rice recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need something easy and delicious for weeknight dinner. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time and reheat later when needed. Simply cook the chicken mixture until heated through before serving over steaming hot basmati rice.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Chicken and Rice

Q: What is the difference between butter chicken and chicken tikka masala?

While both dishes are popular Indian-inspired recipes, they have some key differences. Butter chicken is typically made with marinated chicken cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce with butter, whereas chicken tikka masala is made with marinated chicken cooked in a rich and creamy sauce with yogurt and spices.

Q: Can I make this recipe with boneless skinless chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts in place of the thighs if you prefer. However, keep in mind that boneless skinless chicken breasts will cook much faster than thighs, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: What type of rice should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using basmati rice or another long-grain white rice that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Then simply reheat the sauce when you’re ready to assemble the dish.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

To prevent the sauce from becoming too thick, make sure to stir constantly while cooking it on low heat. You can also add a little water or broth if needed to thin out the sauce.

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

No, I would not recommend using frozen chicken for this recipe. Fresh chicken will always produce better results than frozen or thawed-out meat.

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