Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan

Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan is a delightful dish that brings the warmth of Indian cuisine right to your table. This velvety butter chicken recipe is infused with fragrant coriander and served over fluffy rice, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices creates a deep, satisfying taste that will impress your guests.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet delicious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with rice and naan, or serve it alongside fresh salads for a delightful meal.
• Freezable Leftovers: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick meals later on!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather the essential tools to make your Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan even easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or saucepan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or saucepan: Ideal for evenly cooking the chicken and combining all ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping onions and other ingredients quick and safe.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped

For the Sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp chili powder(adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp crushed fresh coriander seeds(or 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves)

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

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by heating the vegetable oil and unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

1. Add the chopped onions to the skillet and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook until they are browned on all sides.

Step 2: Spice It Up

Once the chicken is browned, it’s time to add the spices.

1. Sprinkle in the ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder.
2. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly in the spices.
3. Let it cook for another 5 minutes so all flavors meld together.

Step 3: Finish Cooking

Now we’ll create that luscious sauce.

1. Pour in about a cup of water or broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any bits from the bottom.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes.
3. Stir occasionally until chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Enjoy this rich Butter Chicken with Coriander paired with fluffy rice and warm naan for a delightful meal!

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

Serving Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing when served with the right accompaniments.

With Fresh Cilantro Garnish

• Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro on top of the butter chicken for a burst of color and flavor.

Accompanied by Lemon Wedges

• Serving slices of lemon allows guests to add a zesty kick that complements the richness of the butter chicken.

On a Festive Platter

• Arrange the butter chicken, rice, and naan on a large serving platter. This creates an inviting centerpiece for gatherings.

With Yogurt Sauce

• A cooling yogurt sauce or raita can balance the spices in the dish while adding a creamy texture.

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

Perfecting Butter Chicken requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking skills:

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices deliver more flavor than pre-ground options. Consider grinding coriander seeds yourself for a fragrant boost.

• Marinate chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in spices and yogurt for at least 30 minutes enhances its tenderness and flavor.

• Control heat: Adjust cooking temperature carefully; too high can scorch spices, while too low may not develop rich flavors.

• Add creaminess: For an extra velvety texture, finish the dish with a splash of cream or coconut milk before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan

Pairing side dishes with Butter Chicken adds variety to your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Vegetable Biryani: A fragrant rice dish cooked with assorted vegetables and spices that complements the butter chicken beautifully.

2. Cucumber Raita: A refreshing yogurt-based side that soothes spicy flavors while providing a cool contrast.

3. Saag Paneer: Creamy spinach cooked with Indian cheese adds richness and pairs well with naan.

4. Chickpea Salad: A light salad made with chickpeas, tomatoes, and onions offers a protein-packed side full of flavor.

5. Aloo Gobi: Spiced potatoes and cauliflower provide hearty textures that work well alongside buttery chicken.

6. Naan Bread: Soft naan bread is essential for scooping up butter chicken; consider garlic naan for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Allow your chicken to sit in spices and yogurt for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook just until it’s no longer pink in the center to keep it juicy.
• Ignoring spice freshness: Using old spices can dull your dish’s flavor. Always check the freshness of your spices before cooking and replace them as needed.
• Neglecting the sauce consistency: A watery sauce won’t coat the chicken well. Simmer until the sauce thickens to achieve a velvety texture that clings beautifully to each piece.
• Forgetting garnishes: Skipping fresh herbs or cream on top can make your dish look less appealing. Garnish with chopped cilantro or a swirl of cream for vibrant color and extra flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan to cool before sealing.

Freezing Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan

• Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.

Reheating Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or turkey for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan, use paneer or tofu instead of chicken and vegetable broth instead of any meat stock.

What type of rice is best for serving?

Basmati rice is traditionally used as it complements the flavors beautifully. However, any long-grain rice will work well too.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can make Butter Chicken with Coriander ahead of time. Just store it properly and reheat when ready to serve.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add more vegetables like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition. Adjust the spice levels based on your preference too!

Final Thoughts

Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan offers rich flavors and comforting textures that appeal to many palates. The dish is versatile; you can easily customize it by adding different proteins or vegetables according to your taste. Give this recipe a try—your family will love it!