Butter Chicken with Rice Recipe

Introduction

Butter Chicken with Rice is the ultimate comfort dish from the heart of Indian cuisine. Tender chicken marinated in a spiced yogurt blend, then simmered in a luscious tomato-cream sauce—paired with fragrant basmati rice. It’s cozy, rich, and layered with flavor, making it a perfect dish for both casual meals and special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 1 cup tomato purée or crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For the Basmati Rice:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon butter or ghee
• Pinch of salt
• 1–2 cloves or a piece of cinnamon (optional, for aroma)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine all marinade ingredients and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is best for deeper flavor).
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet or pan, heat oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add remaining butter. Sauté chopped onions until soft. Add ginger-garlic paste, spices, and cook until fragrant—about 1–2 minutes.
4. Simmer the Curry: Add tomato purée and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in cream and simmer for 5 more minutes. Return cooked chicken to the pan and simmer everything together for another 10 minutes. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook the Rice: Rinse basmati rice until water runs clear. In a pot, bring water, rice, salt, and butter to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Let it rest 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
6. Serve: Plate warm butter chicken over fluffy rice, garnish with fresh cilantro. Pair with naan or roti if desired, and enjoy with a side of mint-lemon water for that refreshing touch.

Methods

This recipe combines marination, sautéing, and simmering to create deep, layered flavors. Using yogurt in the marinade tenderizes the chicken, while slow-cooking the sauce intensifies the richness of the spices and cream.

History

Butter Chicken, or “Murgh Makhani”, originated in Delhi in the 1950s. It was invented by mixing leftover tandoori chicken in a tomato-based curry rich with butter and cream, creating a dish that’s now beloved worldwide. It represents the perfect blend of Mughlai and Punjabi cooking traditions.

Benefits

• High in protein from chicken.
• Contains spices like turmeric and ginger, known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Comforting, satisfying, and ideal for meal prep or family dinners.

Formation

The flavor builds step-by-step: starting with a tangy-spiced marinade, then caramelizing onions, blending spices, tomatoes, and cream to create a velvety sauce. Chicken is reintroduced to absorb all flavors, forming a cohesive, deeply flavored dish.

Conclusion

Butter Chicken with Rice is more than just food—it’s an experience of warmth, depth, and Indian culinary artistry. With a rich sauce and tender chicken, it’s a dish that brings people together and leaves a lasting impression on the taste buds.

Lovers

This dish is adored by Indian food enthusiasts, families looking for hearty meals, and anyone who appreciates bold, aromatic flavors. It’s a favorite for festive gatherings, romantic dinners, or cozy weekend nights.

Methods

For best results, marinate overnight, use full-fat yogurt, and don’t rush the simmering—each step adds flavor. Always use fresh spices for maximum aroma and punch.

Nutrition

• ⏰ Prep Time: 15 min + marinating
• Cook Time: 30 min
• ⏳ Total Time: ~45–60 min
• ⚡ Approx. 540 kcal per serving
• ️ Serves: 4

Conclusion

Whether you’re trying Indian cuisine for the first time or making your 100th batch, Butter Chicken with Rice never disappoints. It’s a timeless classic that promises taste, tradition, and total satisfaction.

Lovers

From street food fans in Delhi to foodies in New York, butter chicken has a global fanbase. Its creamy richness and vibrant spices continue to win hearts everywhere.