Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan

If there’s one dish that transports you straight to the bustling streets of India with its rich, aromatic essence, it’s Butter Chicken. This iconic recipe marries succulent chicken in a creamy, spiced sauce that’s simply irresistible. Accompanied by fluffy rice, warm naan, and a sprinkle of fresh coriander, this dish is a hug served on a plate. The luxurious aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner, and the first bite is sure to elicit a smile of pure satisfaction.

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Sensory Experience

Imagine the enticing scent of ginger and garlic dancing through the air as you prepare this dish, creating an atmosphere of warmth and comfort. As you take that first bite, your taste buds awaken to a harmonious blend of spices, where the creaminess of the sauce envelops tender chicken, creating a delightful, velvety texture. Each mouthful is a medley of flavors—sweetness from the tomatoes, warmth from the spices, and a hint of coolness from the yogurt marinade. Butter Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that lingers long after the last spoonful.

When to Make This Recipe

This Butter Chicken recipe is your go-to for cozy family dinners, festive gatherings, or a special date night at home. The ease of preparation and the aromatic results make it a perfect option for impressing guests. Additionally, it can transform a quick weekday dinner into something remarkable, taking you on a culinary escape even on the busiest nights.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 600
- Protein: 43g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g

(Nutrition calculated based on trusted sources such as the USDA FoodData Central and Mayo Clinic.)

Why Make This Recipe

Butter Chicken is more than just delicious; it’s a celebration of flavors that bring people together. The combination of spices is not intimidating, yet it yields a restaurant-quality dish you can make in the comfort of your home. The creamy, tangy sauce is perfect for scooping up with naan or spooning over fluffy rice, making it an ideal choice for any occasion—be it a cozy family dinner or an elegant dinner party.

How to Make Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cut into pieces
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp butter
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 inch ginger, grated
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp paprika
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Cooked rice
Naan bread

Optional Ingredients:

Sliced almonds or cashews for garnish
Additional spices (like turmeric or chili powder) for extra heat.

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with yogurt and salt. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator for extra tenderness).
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until fragrant and onions are translucent.
Add Spices: Stir in garam masala, cumin, and paprika, cooking for another minute to enhance their flavors.
Brown the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Simmer: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors.
Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream, mixing until fully combined. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, adjusting seasoning as desired.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh coriander leaves, and serve hot alongside cooked rice and warm naan bread.

How to Serve

Butter Chicken is best enjoyed hot, paired with fluffy rice or warm naan bread. You can drizzle additional cream over the top or serve it with a side of cooling yogurt sauce with cucumber. For a truly luxurious experience, accompany it with a cup of fragrant chai or lassi.

How to Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze Butter Chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stove over low heat until heated through.

Expert Tips

Chicken Tenderness: For extra tender chicken, let it marinate longer in yogurt.
Spice Control: Adjust spices based on your heat tolerance. Add more chili powder for heat or extra cream for richness.
Testing Doneness: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Delicious Variations

Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a delightful vegan twist.
Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free naan or skip the bread altogether and enjoy the curry with rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating to ensure even flavor absorption.
Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp or paneer for a different taste and texture.
How can I adjust the sauce thickness?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of cream or simmer it longer to condense the flavors.
What if I have leftovers?
Leftover Butter Chicken makes for delightful lunch options. Serve it over a fresh bed of rice or enjoy it in a wrap.
Can I reduce the fat content?
Try using half-fat cream or a lower-fat yogurt option, although this might change the creaminess substantially.

Conclusion

Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan is a culinary embrace that brings comfort and happiness to any table. It’s an inviting dish that encourages sharing and conversation among family and friends. Don’t hesitate to try out this recipe and make it your own, and we’d love to hear how your version turns out. Enjoy the journey of flavors and let Butter Chicken warm your heart and home!