Hello, wonderful food explorers! Liliane here, your friendly chef, bringing you a recipe that combines rich, comforting flavors with a hint of spice—Indian Butter Chicken with Rice! This dish is not only a staple in Indian cuisine but also a global favorite for its creamy, tomato-based sauce that’s simply irresistible.
If you’re looking for a lunch that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, you’ve come to the right place.
Ingredients You’ll Need for a Flavorful Butter Chicken
For the Butter Chicken:
- 450g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped into small, bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream (or coconut cream as a dairy-free substitute)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
For the Rice:
- 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp butter
Step-by-Step Instructions for Butter Chicken with Rice Perfection
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator). This step is essential to infuse the chicken with flavor and make it tender.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Once marinated, heat a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden and nearly cooked through. Take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Butter Chicken Sauce
Mix in one more tablespoon of butter into the same skillet. Add the tomato puree and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Then, add the cream, garam masala, and cumin, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Now, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat each piece with the luscious sauce. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Cook the Basmati Rice
While the butter chicken is simmering, prepare the rice. In a saucepan, heat the water, salt, and butter until it reaches a boil. Once boiling, add the rinsed basmati rice, cover, and lower the heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
How to Make Perfect Basmati Rice to Serve with Your Meal
When it comes to enjoying Indian Butter Chicken, the rice you serve alongside is just as important as the dish itself. Basmati rice, known for its long grains and delicate aroma, pairs perfectly with rich, creamy dishes, and it’s simpler to make than you might think!
Here’s my step-by-step guide to achieving fluffy, flavorful basmati rice every time :
- Rinse the Rice
- Measure 1 cup of basmati rice and rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps eliminate extra starch, keeping the rice from becoming sticky.
- Soak the Rice
- Soak the rinsed rice in cold water for 15–20 minutes. This helps the grains cook evenly and keeps them from breaking, giving you long, fluffy grains.
- Drain and Prepare the Water
- After soaking, drain the rice well. In a medium saucepan, add 1 ½ cups of water, ½ teaspoon of salt, and a small knob of butter or 1 teaspoon of oil. Butter adds a richness that pairs beautifully with Butter Chicken.
- Boil and Add Rice
- Bring the water mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, add the drained rice, and give it a quick stir to spread the grains evenly.
- Simmer with the Lid On
- Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the rice cook for 15 minutes undisturbed. Avoid lifting the lid or stirring—the steam will cook the rice perfectly.
- Let it Rest
- After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, still covered, for another 5 minutes. This resting time lets any leftover steam complete the cooking process.
- Fluff and Serve
- Carefully fluff the rice with a fork to loosen the grains. You’ll have perfectly cooked, fluffy basmati rice ready to soak up that delicious Butter Chicken sauce!
Following these simple steps, you’ll achieve beautifully fragrant, tender basmati rice every time. Serve hot with Butter Chicken for a meal that’s sure to impress!
Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken
- Marination Magic: The yogurt marinade tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful. Don’t skip it!
- Tomato Base: Use fresh tomato puree if possible for a richer sauce.
- Creamy Twist: If you’re dairy-free, coconut cream can substitute heavy cream and still achieve that silky texture.
- Serve Fresh: Butter Chicken is best enjoyed hot with freshly cooked rice. It tastes even better when allowed to sit for a few minutes, as the flavors continue to meld.
Why You’ll Love This Dish and Why It’s Perfect for Lunch
Indian Butter Chicken, or “Murgh Makhani” as it’s known in India, is the perfect balance of spice and creaminess, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The rich sauce, made with butter, cream, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, coats each tender chicken piece. Paired with fluffy basmati rice, this dish is perfect for a cozy lunch that feels like a little escape.
The balanced spices awaken your senses, and the protein-rich chicken provides energy to keep you going through the afternoon. Plus, with basmati rice on the side, you get a wholesome, nutritious base that completes the dish beautifully.
Serving Suggestions and a Note for Kids
For a traditional experience, serve Indian Butter Chicken with Rice with warm naan bread and a side of fresh cucumber raita. The raita’s cooling effect is a delightful contrast to the warmth of the spices. You can also add a side of sliced onions and lemon wedges for an authentic Indian touch.
This recipe is mild enough for kids who are open to trying new flavors. If your kids are new to spices, you can reduce the chili powder to make it milder. Indian Butter Chicken is a fantastic way to introduce children to global flavors, encouraging them to explore different cuisines.
There you have it—a delicious, creamy, and aromatic Butter Chicken with Rice that’s sure to elevate any lunchtime! Whether you’re making it for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is bound to impress. And the best part? It’s easier to make than you’d think, thanks to a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and let’s get cooking!