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Butter Chicken with Rice

A rich and creamy Indian butter chicken cooked in a spiced tomato gravy and served over fluffy basmati rice for a comforting, flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Chicken Marinade:
  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • For the Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • For the Rice:
  • 2 cups cooked basmati rice
  • 1 tbsp butter (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and salt. Add chicken and coat well. Marinate at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight).
  2. Heat oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté onions until golden.
  4. Add garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Stir in tomato sauce, garam masala, paprika, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  6. Add chicken back to the skillet and cook for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.
  7. Pour in heavy cream, stir, and simmer another 5 minutes until sauce thickens.
  8. Prepare rice by mixing hot cooked basmati rice with a bit of butter if desired.
  9. Serve butter chicken over rice or alongside it.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken longer improves tenderness and flavor.
  • Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro for brightness.
  • Pair with naan for an extra comforting meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: butter chicken, chicken curry, Indian butter chicken, creamy chicken curry