Butter Chicken is a classic Indian dish known for its rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced tomato-based sauce. The combination of tender marinated chicken, fragrant basmati rice, and soft, buttery garlic naan creates a meal that is comforting, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or indulging in a cozy dinner, this dish is a guaranteed hit.
The secret to the best Butter Chicken lies in the marination – the blend of yogurt and warm spices infuses the chicken with incredible depth and tenderness. Paired with a velvety sauce and served alongside fresh, fluffy naan, this meal is the perfect balance of spice and comfort. Serve it up for a family dinner, meal prep, or an impressive weekend feast!
Full Recipe:
For the Butter Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 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
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
For the Rice:
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Garlic Naan:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Directions:
Butter Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until soft. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
- Add marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in red chili powder, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and sugar. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Basmati Rice:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add rice and salt.
- Cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes, then remove from heat and let steam for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Garlic Naan:
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add yogurt and warm water, kneading into a soft dough. Let rest for 30 minutes.
- Divide dough into small balls and roll into thin rounds.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook each naan for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with minced garlic before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
The Ultimate Meal-Prep Butter Chicken with Rice and Garlic Naan
Butter Chicken is one of the most beloved Indian dishes worldwide, known for its creamy tomato-based sauce, bold spices, and melt-in-your-mouth chicken. Paired with fragrant basmati rice and buttery garlic naan, this meal brings together rich flavors and comforting textures that make it an ideal choice for meal prep or a family dinner. This dish, also known as Murgh Makhani in India, originated in the 1950s at a restaurant in Delhi and has since become a staple in Indian cuisine, enjoyed by millions across the globe.
Why Meal-Prep Butter Chicken is a Game Changer
Meal prepping is an excellent way to save time, reduce food waste, and ensure you have nutritious meals ready to go throughout the week. Butter Chicken is a fantastic choice for meal prep because it stays fresh for days, reheats beautifully, and its flavors deepen over time, making each serving even more delicious. Unlike other creamy dishes, Butter Chicken doesn’t separate or lose its texture when stored, making it a reliable choice for busy schedules.
The Secret to a Flavorful Butter Chicken
What sets a great Butter Chicken apart from an average one is the depth of flavor achieved through proper marination and slow cooking techniques. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, and a blend of warm Indian spices, allowing it to absorb all the aromatic flavors before it’s cooked. The sauce, made with tomatoes, cream, and butter, is simmered until it reaches a velvety smooth consistency that coats the chicken perfectly. The balance of spice, creaminess, and slight tang from the tomatoes makes this dish irresistibly good.
How to Achieve the Perfect Creamy Texture
The key to achieving a rich and creamy Butter Chicken lies in the combination of ingredients and cooking techniques. Using heavy cream instead of milk gives the sauce its luxurious texture, while butter adds richness and enhances the overall flavor. The addition of a small amount of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. If you want an extra smooth consistency, blending the sauce before adding the chicken will result in an ultra-creamy finish that rivals restaurant-style Butter Chicken.
Pairing Butter Chicken with the Perfect Sides
Butter Chicken is traditionally served with rice or naan to soak up the flavorful sauce. Basmati rice, known for its long grains and fragrant aroma, is the ideal accompaniment because it absorbs the sauce beautifully without becoming mushy. A touch of salt enhances the flavor of the rice, complementing the richness of the Butter Chicken.
Garlic naan is another excellent pairing, as its fluffy texture and buttery, garlicky flavor make it perfect for scooping up every last drop of sauce. Making naan at home is easier than it sounds, and the combination of warm, pillowy bread with the creamy Butter Chicken creates a satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more.
How to Store and Reheat Butter Chicken for Meal Prep
One of the best things about Butter Chicken is its ability to stay fresh and delicious for several days. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
- Refrigeration: Store Butter Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits, but a splash of water or cream when reheating will bring it back to its original consistency.
- Freezing: Butter Chicken freezes exceptionally well. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the Butter Chicken on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.
Customization Ideas for Different Dietary Preferences
Butter Chicken is versatile and can be adjusted to fit different dietary needs:
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and replace butter with dairy-free alternatives like coconut oil or ghee.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Swap the chicken for paneer (Indian cottage cheese) or tofu for a delicious vegetarian Butter Paneer.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve Butter Chicken with cauliflower rice instead of basmati rice for a keto-friendly meal.
The Cultural Significance of Butter Chicken
Butter Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a dish deeply rooted in Indian culinary history. Created in the 1950s by chefs at the famous Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi, it was designed as a way to repurpose leftover tandoori chicken by simmering it in a rich, buttery tomato sauce. The result was an instant hit, and today, Butter Chicken is a staple in Indian households and restaurants around the world. Its creamy, mildly spiced sauce makes it accessible to those new to Indian cuisine while still satisfying those who love bold flavors.
Conclusion
Butter Chicken with Rice and Garlic Naan is the ultimate comfort meal that brings together rich flavors, creamy textures, and satisfying warmth. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or serving it at a family gathering, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Its ability to be customized, stored, and reheated makes it a practical yet indulgent meal that never disappoints. If you’re looking for a dish that’s flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep, Butter Chicken is a must-try recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.