The Ultimate Creamy Indian Butter Chicken Recipe for Homemade Bliss

Nestled in the heart of comfort food, this creamy indian butter chicken promises a delightful culinary adventure that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of delhi.

Aromatic spices dance through tender chicken pieces, creating a symphony of flavors that whisper tales of traditional cooking.

Marinated meat simmers in a velvety tomato-based sauce, rich with hints of garam masala and subtle cream.

Each bite tells a story of generations-old recipes passed down through kitchens across india.

Fragrant basmati rice and warm garlicky naan complement the dish, offering the perfect canvas for soaking up every delicious morsel.

Soft, luxurious, and packed with incredible depth, this butter chicken recipe will become your new favorite go-to meal for satisfying hunger and warming hearts.

Prepare to experience a culinary journey that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast.

Why Creamy Indian Butter Chicken With Rice And Naan Feels Like Home

• Savor Global Flavor Adventure: Dive into an authentic Indian culinary journey that brings restaurant-quality taste directly to your kitchen without complex techniques.
• Master Layered Spice Complexity: Experience a rich blend of garam masala, cumin, and turmeric that creates deep, nuanced flavors with simple ingredient combinations.
• Create Restaurant-Worthy Meal: Impress family and friends with a professional-looking dish that tastes like it's straight from a high-end Indian restaurant, requiring minimal cooking skills.
• Customize Your Comfort: Easily adjust spice levels and ingredients to suit personal preferences, making this recipe adaptable for different taste buds and dietary needs.

Butter Chicken With Rice And Naan: What To Grab

• Chicken: Tender meat that serves as the primary protein in this flavorful Indian dish.

• Greek Yogurt: Creamy base that helps tenderize and add richness to the chicken.
• Lemon Juice: Bright acidic component that enhances flavor and helps break down protein.
• Garam Masala, Cumin, Coriander, Paprika, Turmeric: Spice blend that provides deep, complex Indian flavor profile.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasoning that balances and enhances overall taste.

• Butter: Rich, traditional base that adds depth and authentic Indian cooking style.
• Onions: Aromatic foundation that provides sweet undertones to the sauce.
• Garlic, Ginger: Pungent aromatics that create a robust flavor base.
• Red Chili Powder: Adds gentle heat and vibrant color to the dish.
• Crushed Tomatoes: Creates the primary liquid and tangy component of the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and additional savory depth.
• Sugar: Balances the acidity and creates a rounded flavor profile.
• Heavy Cream: Provides luxurious, smooth texture to the final sauce.
• Fresh Cilantro: Bright, fresh garnish that adds a final herbal note.

• Basmati Rice: Fragrant long-grain rice that perfectly complements the butter chicken.
• Flour, Baking Powder, Salt: Core ingredients for creating traditional naan bread.
• Warm Water: Helps bind the naan dough.
• Melted Butter, Minced Garlic: Flavorful finish for the naan bread.

How To Cook Butter Chicken With Rice And Naan

Step 1: Create Magical Marinade

• Greek yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Garam masala
• Cumin
• Coriander
• Paprika
• Turmeric
• Salt
• Black pepper

Coat chicken pieces thoroughly and let them soak up the deliciousness for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatic Base

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent.

Add minced garlic and ginger, letting the kitchen fill with incredible aromas.

Step 3: Brown the Marinated Chicken

Transfer marinated chicken into the skillet.

Cook until each piece turns golden brown and develops a beautiful caramelized exterior.

Step 4: Build the Luxurious Sauce

Sprinkle red chili powder into the skillet.

Pour in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and a touch of sugar. Let everything simmer and mingle, allowing the sauce to thicken and develop deep, rich flavors.

Step 5: Finish with Creamy Perfection

Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream, creating a silky smooth sauce. Let it simmer gently for a few more minutes.

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Step 6: Cook Fluffy Basmati Rice

Rinse rice until water runs clear.

Bring water to a rolling boil in a pot. Add rice and a pinch of salt.

Cover and reduce heat. Cook for 15 minutes, then let it steam for an additional 5 minutes.

Fluff with a fork.

Step 7: Craft Homemade Garlic Naan

Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.

Add yogurt and warm water, kneading into a soft, pillowy dough. Let it rest for 30 minutes.

Step 8: Shape and Cook Naan

Divide dough into small balls. Roll each into thin, rustic rounds.

Cook in a hot skillet until golden brown on both sides.

Step 9: Add Final Touches

Brush naan with melted butter and sprinkle with minced garlic for an extra flavor punch.

Rich Tips For Creamy Butter Chicken With Rice And Naan

• Marinate chicken overnight for deeper, more intense flavors that penetrate every bite of the meat.
• Use full-fat Greek yogurt to ensure a rich, creamy texture in the butter chicken sauce and help tenderize the chicken.
• Rinse basmati rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, guaranteeing fluffy, separated grains that won't become sticky.
• Create a vegetarian version by substituting chicken with firm tofu or paneer, keeping the same aromatic spice blend for maximum taste.
• Allow naan dough to rest completely before rolling to develop gluten and create a softer, more pliable bread texture.

Flavor Variations For Butter Chicken With Rice And Naan

• Coconut Curry Twist: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a tropical, dairy-free version that adds rich, creamy texture and subtle sweetness to the butter chicken sauce.
• Spicy Green Chili Version: Incorporate roasted green chilies and increase red chili powder for a fiery, bold flavor profile that intensifies the dish's heat and complexity.
• Vegetarian Paneer Remix: Substitute chicken with paneer cheese cubes, maintaining the same marinade and cooking technique for a protein-packed vegetarian alternative that preserves the original recipe's essence.
• Smoky Tandoori Adaptation: Marinate chicken in yogurt with additional tandoori masala, then briefly grill before finishing in the sauce for a charred, smoky flavor that enhances the traditional butter chicken experience.

Tasty Add-Ons For Butter Chicken With Rice And Naan

• Pair with Cool Cucumber Raita: Whip up a refreshing yogurt-based side dish with diced cucumbers, mint, and a pinch of salt to balance the rich, spicy butter chicken.
• Complement with Crisp Indian Lager: Grab a chilled Kingfisher or Taj Mahal beer to cut through the creamy sauce and cleanse the palate between bites of the flavorful dish.
• Match with Sweet Mango Lassi: Blend ripe mangoes, yogurt, and a touch of honey to create a smooth, cooling drink that perfectly tempers the butter chicken's warmth and spice.
• Enhance with Tangy Pickled Onions: Quick-pickle thinly sliced red onions in vinegar, sugar, and salt to add a bright, acidic contrast to the rich, creamy chicken.

How To Store Butter Chicken With Rice And Naan

• Refrigerate: Store butter chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent odor transfer.
• Freeze: Transfer cooled butter chicken to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Separate rice and naan before freezing to prevent sogginess.
• Microwave Reheating: Place butter chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed. Add a splash of chicken broth to restore sauce consistency if needed.
• Stovetop Reheating: Warm butter chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs For Creamy Butter Chicken With Rice And Naan

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work perfectly. Just ensure they’re cut into similar-sized pieces and don’t overcook to maintain tenderness.

• Is garam masala necessary for this recipe?

Garam masala is crucial for authentic flavor. If unavailable, you can substitute with a blend of ground cumin, coriander, and a pinch of cinnamon.

• How spicy is this butter chicken?

The recipe has mild to moderate heat. You can adjust the red chili powder to control spice level – reduce for less heat or increase for more kick.

• Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with paneer (Indian cheese) or firm tofu. Maintain the same marinating and cooking technique for similar delicious results.

Creamy Indian Butter Chicken with Fluffy Basmati Rice and Garlicky Naan Recipe

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4.7 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Butter chicken delights senses with its rich, velvety sauce dancing over tender chicken. Aromatic spices from India meld perfectly, inviting you to savor each luxurious bite of this classic comfort dish.

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Ingredients

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Proteins and Dairy:

• 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter

Spices and Seasonings:

• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger

Vegetables and Other Ingredients:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces/400 grams) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Rice Ingredients:

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Naan Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

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Instructions

1. Create a vibrant marinade by blending Greek yogurt with aromatic spices, lemon juice, and seasonings. Thoroughly coat chicken pieces, allowing flavors to penetrate for 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté finely chopped onions until translucent, then introduce minced garlic and ginger, releasing their fragrant essence.
3. Transfer marinated chicken into the skillet, browning each piece to develop a rich, caramelized exterior for approximately 5-6 minutes.
4. Intensify the sauce by incorporating red chili powder, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and a touch of sugar. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the mixture to reduce and thicken.
5. Lower the heat and gently fold in heavy cream, creating a luxurious, silky texture. Continue simmering for an additional 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Basmati Rice:

1. Thoroughly rinse rice under cold water until the liquid becomes completely clear, removing excess starch.
2. Bring water to a rolling boil in a medium pot, adding a pinch of salt. Carefully introduce the rice, stirring once.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and cook for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let the rice steam undisturbed for 5 minutes, then fluff gently with a fork.

Garlic Naan:

1. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. Gradually incorporate yogurt and warm water, kneading into a smooth, elastic dough. Allow to rest for 30 minutes.
2. Divide the rested dough into equal portions, rolling each into thin, oval-shaped rounds.
3. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each naan for 1-2 minutes per side, watching for golden-brown spots and slight charring.
4. Brush freshly cooked naan with melted butter and sprinkle generously with minced garlic before serving hot.

Notes

• Marinate chicken longer for deeper, more intense flavor absorption and tenderness.
• Use fresh, high-quality spices to elevate the authentic taste of butter chicken.
• Adjust chili powder for personalized heat level, catering to mild or spicy preferences.
• Substitute dairy ingredients with coconut cream or plant-based alternatives for vegan/lactose-free version.

• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 670
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 70 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg