If you are on the hunt for a comforting, rich, and incredibly flavorful dish that comes together without fuss, you will absolutely adore this Easy Butter Chicken and Rice Recipe. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that combines tender pieces of chicken bathed in a luscious buttery tomato cream sauce, all melded together with fragrant spices and fluffy rice. Each bite is a warm hug of spices and creaminess that feels both gourmet and homey, making it a forever favorite in my kitchen and hopefully soon in yours too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Butter Chicken and Rice Recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients that pack a serious punch in flavor and texture. Each one plays a crucial role, whether bringing richness, warmth, or a fresh pop of color to your plate.
- Chicken Breast, boneless and skinless (1.5 lbs): Bite-sized pieces that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): Provides the essential richness that makes this dish so decadent.
- Onion, diced (1 medium): Adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves): Brings an irresistible aromatic punch that awakens your taste buds.
- Ginger, minced (1 tablespoon): Offers a delightful zing that brightens the overall profile.
- Tomato Puree (1 cup): Forms the flavorful base of the creamy sauce.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup): Gives the sauce its luscious, smooth texture that melts in your mouth.
- Chicken Broth (1 cup): Used to cook the rice and infuse it with savory notes.
- Garam Masala (2 teaspoons): The star spice mix that defines the dish’s Indian-inspired warmth.
- Cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds an earthy undertone that balances beautifully with the other flavors.
- Coriander (1 teaspoon): Brings brightness and a gentle citrusy hint.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors and spices.
- Fresh Cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish.
- Basmati or Jasmine Rice (1 cup): Perfect to soak up the buttery, spiced sauce.
How to Make Easy Butter Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by cutting your chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic and ginger. Getting your ingredients ready upfront makes the cooking flow effortlessly.
Step 2: Sauté Onions to Golden Perfection
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add your diced onions. Cook them slowly until they turn a beautiful golden brown, which brings out their natural sweetness and creates a flavorful base for your sauce.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Ginger
Toss in the minced garlic and ginger and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes until they release their fragrant aroma. This step sets the stage for the rich flavor profile you’re building.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add your chicken pieces to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re no longer pink on the outside—about 5 to 6 minutes. The chicken will absorb all those wonderful aromatics.
Step 5: Toast the Spices
Sprinkle in your garam masala, cumin, coriander, and salt. Stir everything well to fully coat the chicken and toast the spices for a couple of minutes, which intensifies their flavors dramatically.
Step 6: Build Your Sauce
Pour in the tomato puree and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a simmer, letting the sauce thicken and meld with the chicken over about 10 minutes.
Step 7: Add Creaminess
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream until smooth and silky. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes; this velvety step is what makes the butter chicken so indulgently creamy.
Step 8: Prepare the Rice
Rinse your basmati or jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This ensures your rice cooks fluffy and perfectly separate.
Step 9: Combine Rice and Sauce
Add the rinsed rice directly to the pot with your butter chicken sauce. Stir gently to make sure the rice is submerged in liquid.
Step 10: Cook and Finish
Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until it absorbs all the flavorful liquid. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a bright finish.
How to Serve Easy Butter Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped cilantro is a must-have for this dish, adding a fresh, herbaceous lift that balances the richness beautifully. A squeeze of lemon or a dollop of yogurt also works wonders if you want a little tang or creaminess contrast.
Side Dishes
Pair this Easy Butter Chicken and Rice Recipe with simple sides like roasted vegetables, steamed greens, or even warm naan bread to scoop up the luscious sauce. A crisp cucumber salad or pickled onions can bring a refreshing bite alongside the creamy dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your butter chicken in individual shallow bowls with the rice nestled right alongside or underneath like a cozy bed. For a casual gathering, transfer it to a large serving dish topped with cilantro and lemon wedges, inviting everyone to dig in family-style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your leftovers taste even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you want to make it ahead for busy weeknights, feel free to freeze portions. Just be sure to leave the rice slightly undercooked before freezing, as it can get mushy. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even juicier and add rich flavor, making your butter chicken even more tender and succulent.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Easy Butter Chicken and Rice Recipe is mildly spiced and perfect for all palates. You can always add chili powder or fresh chilies if you prefer a bit more heat.
What kind of rice works best?
Basmati and jasmine rice are both excellent choices because they have a light, fluffy texture and fragrance that complement the creamy sauce beautifully.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with oil and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a luscious dairy-free version that still tastes amazing.
How long does it take to make this dish?
The entire process takes about 45 minutes, including prep and cooking time, which makes it a fantastic choice for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying and heartwarming about putting together this Easy Butter Chicken and Rice Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of spices, creaminess, and tender chicken that never fails to bring smiles to the table. I encourage you to try making it yourself and discover just how simple it is to create a dish that tastes like a special occasion any night of the week.
