Epic Butter Chicken with Soft Rice & Golden Garlic Naan -

Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of India’s culinary treasure with this Epic Butter Chicken recipe. A creamy, spiced tomato sauce envelopes tender chicken thighs, making for an unforgettable dish when paired with fluffy rice and golden garlic naan. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressive enough for guests, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, with easy-to-follow steps, even novice cooks can master this dish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Butter chicken is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace of spices and textures. The velvety sauce is rich yet not overwhelming, and its balance of flavors creates an experience that tantalizes your taste buds. Combining the tender chicken, fluffy basmati rice, and warm, garlicky naan will surely impress your family or guests. No need for takeout when you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home!

Ingredients Overview

Gather the following fresh ingredients to craft your epic meal. Careful measurement assures that you achieve the best possible flavor and texture.

Butter Chicken

500g chicken thighs, boneless and chopped
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
2 tsp garam masala
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp coriander powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp chili powder (optional)
400g tinned chopped tomatoes
200ml heavy cream
Salt & pepper, to taste

Fluffy Rice

1 cup basmati rice
3 cups water
Pinch of salt

Golden Garlic Naan

250g plain flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
120ml warm water
2 tbsp yogurt
2 tbsp melted butter
2 cloves garlic, crushed
Fresh coriander, for garnish

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Melt the butter along with vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. When hot, add the finely diced onion and fry until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and all the spices—garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, and chili powder if you like it spicy. Stir continuously for about a minute until the mixture is fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the chopped chicken thighs to the pan. Cook them until they are lightly browned on the outside, roughly 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once the chicken is browned, pour in the tinned chopped tomatoes, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 15 minutes on low heat, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Add Cream and Season
After 15 minutes of simmering, pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to your taste, and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. The sauce should become thick and creamy, perfectly coating the chicken.

Step 4: Cook the Rice
While the chicken sauce is simmering, you can prepare the rice. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear, which helps prevent it from becoming sticky. In another pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and then the rice. Cook uncovered on low heat for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and all the water is absorbed. Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let it sit for another few minutes.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Naan
In a mixing bowl, combine plain flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Add the warm water and yogurt to form a dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place the dough back in the bowl, cover it, and let it rest for 30 minutes. Once resting, divide the dough into small balls, roll them out into oval shapes about 1 cm thick. Cook each naan on a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Brush Naan with Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix the crushed garlic with melted butter. Once cooked, brush this mixture over the naan for a delicious garlic flavor. Garnish with fresh coriander for an extra pop.

Pro Tips for Making Epic Butter Chicken

For a lighter version, swap out heavy cream for coconut milk.
Incorporate extra vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition and color.
To enhance the flavor, marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices overnight prior to cooking.
If you want more heat, feel free to increase the chili powder.
For added complexity, consider adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful which enhances the dish. Using chicken breast will yield a leaner meal.

Can I prepare butter chicken in advance?

Absolutely! It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated. The flavors may even deepen upon resting.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, butter chicken freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I serve with butter chicken besides rice and naan?

Consider serving it with quinoa, roti, or a side salad for added freshness.

Can I adjust the spices according to my preference?

Definitely! Feel free to modify the spices to suit your taste. Add more or less according to your heat tolerance.

Conclusion

Epic Butter Chicken with Soft Rice and Golden Garlic Naan is a classic dish that brings the warmth and comfort of Indian cuisine to your table. The combination of tender chicken in a creamy, spiced sauce paired with fluffy rice and aromatic naan creates an irresistible meal. Follow this recipe and unleash your inner chef for a delightful dining experience at home. Enjoy each comforting bite!