Easy Butter Chicken and Rice
Butter chicken and rice is a warm and comforting dish loved by many. This recipe makes it easy to create a delicious Indian meal at home. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken and fragrant rice. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also a dish that the whole family can enjoy.
Making this easy butter chicken and rice at home is a great way to impress your family or guests. It is simple to cook and uses everyday ingredients. With just a few steps, you can enjoy a rich and creamy dish that is both satisfying and comforting. Plus, it’s an affordable way to enjoy restaurant-style food without leaving your home.
How to make Easy Butter Chicken and Rice
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs Chicken Breast, boneless and skinless (Cut into bite-sized pieces.)
- 4 tablespoons Butter (For richness in the sauce.)
- 1 medium Onion, diced (Adds sweetness and depth.)
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced (Brings aromatic flavor.)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger, minced (Adds a delightful zing.)
- 1 cup Tomato Puree (Base for the sauce.)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (For creamy texture.)
- 1 cup Chicken Broth (To cook the rice.)
- 2 teaspoons Garam Masala (Key spice blend.)
- 1 teaspoon Cumin (Adds earthy tone.)
- 1 teaspoon Coriander (Brightens the sauce.)
- to taste Salt (Enhances flavors.)
- for garnish Fresh Cilantro, chopped (Adds freshness.)
- 1 cup Basmati or Jasmine Rice (Soaks up the sauce.)
Directions:
- Prepare all ingredients: cut chicken, dice onion, mince garlic and ginger.
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink (5-6 minutes).
- Sprinkle in garam masala, cumin, coriander, and salt. Stir to coat chicken and toast spices for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in tomato puree and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Lower heat, add heavy cream, and stir until smooth. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Rinse rice under cold water. Add to the pot with the butter chicken sauce.
- Cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15-20 minutes until rice absorbs liquid.
- Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork and garnish with cilantro.
How to serve Easy Butter Chicken and Rice
Serve the butter chicken and rice hot. You can scoop some chicken and sauce over a generous portion of rice on each plate. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with naan or a simple salad if you like. It makes a complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
How to store Easy Butter Chicken and Rice
To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to a month. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to make Easy Butter Chicken and Rice
- Make sure to dice the chicken into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t skip toasting the spices; it brings out their full flavors.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your taste. You can add chili powder for more heat.
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best taste.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version of this recipe by using paneer or tofu instead of chicken. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a complete veggie dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even doneness.
2. Is butter chicken spicy?
Butter chicken is generally mild, but you can adjust the spices based on your preference.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made ahead. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Easy Butter Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A warm and comforting Indian dish, easy to create at home, featuring tender chicken in a creamy sauce served over fragrant rice.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken Breast, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons Butter
- 1 medium Onion, diced
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Ginger, minced
- 1 cup Tomato Puree
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 2 teaspoons Garam Masala
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Coriander
- to taste Salt
- for garnish Fresh Cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup Basmati or Jasmine Rice
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients: cut chicken, dice onion, mince garlic and ginger.
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink (5-6 minutes).
- Sprinkle in garam masala, cumin, coriander, and salt. Stir to coat chicken and toast spices for 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in tomato puree and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- Lower heat, add heavy cream, and stir until smooth. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Rinse rice under cold water. Add to the pot with the butter chicken sauce.
- Cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15-20 minutes until rice absorbs liquid.
- Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork and garnish with cilantro.
Notes
Adjust the spice levels according to your taste. You can add chili powder for more heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian