Butter Chicken with Rice in Creamy Sauce: A Comforting Classic You’ll Love

There are moments when only one dish can satisfy your craving for comfort, warmth, and indulgence: butter chicken with rice in creamy sauce. This iconic dish, loved worldwide for its tender chicken and rich, velvety sauce, takes your taste buds on a flavorful journey that’s both satisfying and comforting. Whether you’re cooking it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, butter chicken with rice offers the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and aromatic notes that create a harmonious and unforgettable experience.

In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare butter chicken with rice from scratch, along with helpful tips, variations, and nutritional facts that will elevate your cooking game. Ready to dive in? Let’s start cooking!

What is Butter Chicken with Rice in Creamy Sauce?

The Origins of Butter Chicken

Butter chicken, also known as “Murgh Makhani,” is a beloved Indian dish that dates back to the 1950s. Legend has it that it was accidentally created by the chefs at the Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi when they mixed leftover chicken with a rich, buttery tomato sauce. The combination of spices, cream, and butter was a hit, and the dish quickly gained fame across India and around the world.

What makes butter chicken so irresistible is its velvety smooth sauce and tender, marinated chicken. When served with fluffy rice, it creates the ultimate comfort meal, one that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Butter Chicken with Rice

Here’s why butter chicken with rice is the dish you’ve been craving:

• Rich, Creamy Sauce: The creamy, tomato-based sauce is the heart and soul of this dish. Butter and cream create a luxurious texture that perfectly complements the chicken.
• Juicy Chicken: The chicken is marinated and cooked until it’s incredibly tender and packed with flavor.
• Fluffy Rice: Basmati rice is a perfect partner for butter chicken, absorbing the rich sauce and offering a fragrant, fluffy base.

The Essential Ingredients for Butter Chicken with Rice in Creamy Sauce

Chicken

For this dish, you’ll want to use boneless chicken thighs or breasts. Thighs are ideal since they remain juicy and tender, but if you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work just as well. Make sure to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces so that they cook evenly.

Marinade Ingredients

Marinating the chicken is essential to infuse it with flavor and tenderness. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Plain Yogurt: Adds moisture and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Garlic and Ginger: Freshly grated for that aromatic kick.
• Lemon Juice: Adds a bit of acidity to balance the richness of the sauce.
• Spices: A blend of cumin, coriander, garam masala, chili powder, and turmeric gives the chicken its signature flavor.

The Creamy Sauce

The sauce is what makes butter chicken so indulgent. Here are the key components:

• Butter: The foundation of the sauce, lending richness and flavor.
• Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce smooth and silky.
• Tomatoes: Fresh or canned tomatoes are pureed to form the base of the sauce.
• Spices: Garam masala, paprika, cumin, and coriander are essential to the depth of flavor.
• Ginger and Garlic: To boost the savory richness.

Rice

For the best experience, serve butter chicken with basmati rice. This long-grain, aromatic rice complements the richness of the sauce and absorbs all the delicious flavors.

How to Make Butter Chicken with Rice in Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight. This helps the chicken absorb the spices and flavors.

1. In a bowl, combine yogurt, garlic, ginger, lemon juice, and all the spices.
2. Add the chicken and toss it in the marinade to coat it evenly.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Once done, set the chicken aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté them until they’re golden and soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the ginger and garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the tomato puree, followed by the spices—garam masala, cumin, paprika, and coriander. Let this cook for 5 minutes until the flavors meld together.
5. Pour in the cream, stirring to combine, and let the sauce simmer for another 10 minutes until it thickens. If it gets too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to reach the desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine the Chicken with the Sauce

Add the cooked chicken pieces into the sauce, and stir to coat them evenly. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the sauce’s flavors.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Cook the rice in a large pot or rice cooker according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork to keep it light and fluffy.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the butter chicken on a bed of rice, garnished with fresh cilantro. You can also drizzle a little extra cream over the top for a beautiful finishing touch.

Variations of Butter Chicken with Rice

1. Spicy Butter Chicken

If you love spice, this variation is for you! Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh chopped chilies to the sauce to kick up the heat. The cream will help balance out the spice, but feel free to adjust to your taste.

2. Vegetarian Butter Chicken (Paneer Makhani)

For a vegetarian alternative, swap the chicken for paneer (Indian cottage cheese). It absorbs the rich, creamy sauce and offers a satisfying vegetarian option that’s just as flavorful.

3. Low-Carb Option with Cauliflower Rice

If you’re following a low-carb diet, cauliflower rice is an excellent substitute for regular rice. It provides the same texture while being lighter and healthier.

Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken with Rice

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and cilantro enhance the flavor and aroma of the dish.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer and develop its full depth of flavor. Patience is key.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If the sauce is too thick, add some chicken broth or water. For extra richness, increase the cream.
• Use Ghee for Authentic Flavor: If you want an authentic touch, substitute ghee (clarified butter) for regular butter.

Nutritional Information of Butter Chicken with Rice

Ingredient	Amount	Calories
Chicken (100g)	1 piece	165
Basmati Rice (1 cup)	1 serving	200
Butter (1 tbsp)	1 tbsp	100
Heavy Cream (1/4 cup)	1/4 cup	100
Tomatoes (1 medium)	1 piece	22
Yogurt (2 tbsp)	2 tbsp	30
Spices and Garnish (per serving)	–	10

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make Butter Chicken in Advance?
Yes, butter chicken can be made ahead of time. The flavors tend to deepen after a day or two. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier, chicken breasts work well too. Just make sure not to overcook them to prevent them from becoming dry.

Is Butter Chicken Very Spicy?
No, butter chicken is not typically spicy. The dish is more about warmth and depth of flavor. However, you can adjust the spice level by adding extra chili powder or fresh chilies if you prefer heat.

Can I Freeze Butter Chicken with Rice?
Yes, both the chicken and rice freeze well. Store them separately in airtight containers, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion: Savor the Comfort of Butter Chicken with Rice

Butter chicken with rice in creamy sauce is more than just a dish—it’s a comfort food experience that brings people together over a shared love of rich, delicious flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or a weekend feast, this recipe will never disappoint. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy rice, butter chicken is the ultimate indulgence that will make you feel at home every time you serve it.