Butter Chicken with Garlic Naan and Steamed Basmati

Few dishes are as beloved worldwide as Butter Chicken. Originating from India, this creamy, spiced, and comforting dish has won hearts with its rich tomato-based sauce, tender chicken, and perfect balance of warmth and subtle sweetness. Pair it with fluffy garlic naan and aromatic basmati rice, and you have a meal that’s both restaurant-quality and wonderfully homey.

This recipe is designed to guide you step-by-step to recreate this Indian classic in your own kitchen. From marinating the chicken to preparing soft, flavorful naan and perfectly steamed rice, you’ll learn all the tips and tricks to master the dish while keeping the flavors authentic. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a cozy dinner for two, this combination is bound to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Butter Chicken Meal

Butter chicken is more than just a dinner—it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and aromas. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Rich and creamy sauce: Heavy cream and butter create a luscious, velvety texture that coats every bite of chicken.
• Flavorful marinade: Yogurt, spices, and lemon juice tenderize and infuse the chicken with deep flavor.
• Versatile accompaniments: Garlic naan and basmati rice complement the sauce perfectly, making every bite irresistible.
• Customizable heat: Adjust chili powder to suit your spice preference.
• Family-friendly: Mild enough for kids but packed with flavor for adults.
• Make-ahead options: Chicken can be marinated overnight for deeper flavor.

Ingredients Breakdown

Precise ingredients ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time. Measurements are exact and organized by component.

Butter Chicken:

• 700 g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp ginger paste
• 1 tbsp garlic paste
• 2 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups tomato purée
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Garlic Naan:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp baking powder
• 2 tbsp plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp oil
• ¾ cup warm water (as needed)
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh chopped parsley

Steamed Basmati Rice:

• 1 ½ cups basmati rice
• 2 ½ cups water
• 1 tbsp butter
• Pinch of salt

Serving size: 4 servings

Tools & Equipment Needed

To create this three-component meal efficiently, you’ll need:

• Large mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Medium saucepan for rice
• Small bowl for naan dough
• Rolling pin or hands for shaping naan
• Skillet or griddle for cooking naan
• Spoon or spatula for stirring

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, ginger paste, garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—or overnight for more intense flavor. Marination not only infuses spices but also tenderizes the chicken for a juicy result.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken in batches and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside. This initial sear locks in juices and creates a slightly caramelized exterior that enhances the final flavor.

3. Prepare the Sauce

In the same pan, add additional butter if needed. Sauté the finely chopped onion until translucent, about 5–6 minutes. Stir in tomato purée and salt, simmering for 10 minutes until thickened and flavorful.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce

Reduce heat slightly, then stir in heavy cream and honey (if using). Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce becomes rich and silky. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Finish with fresh coriander leaves and a drizzle of cream before serving.

5. Make the Garlic Naan

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, yogurt, oil, and warm water. Knead into a soft, elastic dough. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Divide the dough into small balls and roll each into an oval shape. Brush with melted butter and minced garlic. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook naan until golden brown and puffed, about 2–3 minutes per side. Brush again with butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

6. Steam the Basmati Rice

Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine rice, water, butter, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer on low heat for 10–12 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Plate butter chicken with a side of garlic naan and a mound of basmati rice. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken and rice for maximum flavor. Garnish with coriander leaves and additional cream if desired.

Tips & Variations

Adjust the Spice Level

• Reduce chili powder for a milder flavor.
• Add cayenne or green chilies if you prefer more heat.

Protein Swaps

• Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs, but cook carefully to avoid drying out.
• Paneer can replace chicken for a vegetarian version.

Sauce Adjustments

• Use tomato paste for a thicker, more concentrated flavor.
• Adjust cream quantity for a lighter or richer sauce.

Naan Variations

• Stuff naan with cheese or herbs for extra indulgence.
• Try whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Marinate chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
• Dough for naan can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 12 hours.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This meal is a symphony of flavors:

• Creamy and rich: Butter and cream coat each piece of chicken in a luxurious sauce.
• Warm spices: Garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder provide depth and warmth.
• Slightly sweet: Honey or sugar balances the spice and acidity of tomato.
• Garlicky goodness: Naan brushed with garlic butter is aromatic and savory.
• Fluffy rice: Steamed basmati rice absorbs the sauce beautifully.

Suggested Side Dishes

• Cucumber raita for cooling contrast
• Pickled vegetables or mango chutney for a sweet-tangy complement
• Roasted or sautéed vegetables for extra texture

Nutritional Overview

Per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 670 kcal
• Protein: 40 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fat: 35 g
• Fiber: 3 g

Dietary notes: Gluten present in naan; naturally high in protein; can adapt for lighter versions by reducing butter and cream.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Marinate chicken up to 24 hours in advance.
• Prepare naan dough ahead of time and store in the fridge.
• Sauce can be made in advance; reheat gently before adding cooked chicken.
• Store leftovers separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to maintain sauce consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly to prevent drying out.

2. Can I make this vegetarian?
Replace chicken with paneer or tofu; cook slightly less to retain tenderness.

3. Can I prepare this ahead for a dinner party?
Yes, marinate chicken overnight, prepare sauce a few hours ahead, and assemble before serving.

4. Can naan be baked in the oven?
Yes, preheat oven to 220°C (425°F) and bake naan on a baking tray for 5–7 minutes until puffed and golden.

5. Can I freeze butter chicken?
Yes, freeze cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Task	Time
Marinate chicken	1–12 hours
Prepare sauce & cook chicken	20 min
Make garlic naan	30–35 min
Steam basmati rice	10–12 min
Total active time	~1 hour
Total including marination	Up to 12 hours

Serving Suggestions

• Serve butter chicken in a shallow bowl with sauce poured over.
• Place naan on the side or cut into strips for dipping.
• Fluff rice before serving to maximize absorption of sauce.
• Garnish with coriander and a drizzle of cream for visual appeal.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Butter Chicken: Increase chili powder or add fresh green chilies.
2. Coconut Butter Chicken: Replace cream with coconut milk for a subtle tropical flavor.
3. Cheesy Garlic Naan: Add shredded cheese inside naan for a melty center.
4. Healthy Version: Reduce butter and cream; serve with brown rice or cauliflower rice.

Ingredient Spotlight

Garam Masala

A warm, fragrant spice blend essential to authentic butter chicken. It combines coriander, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves for a complex flavor profile.

Basmati Rice

Long-grain basmati provides fluffy, non-sticky texture that pairs perfectly with saucy dishes. Rinse well to remove excess starch.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Even cooking: Cut chicken into uniform pieces for consistent doneness.
• Creamy sauce: Stir cream gently into tomato base to prevent curdling.
• Naan puffing: Ensure skillet is hot enough; cook quickly to trap steam and puff the bread.
• Flavor infusion: Marinate overnight for deeply infused flavors.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store butter chicken, rice, and naan separately for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze chicken and sauce in airtight containers for 2 months. Naan freezes well unbaked; cook after thawing.
• Reheating: Gently reheat chicken and sauce over low heat; fluff rice before serving; warm naan in skillet or oven.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	670 kcal
Protein	40 g
Carbohydrates	55 g
Fat	35 g
Fiber	3 g

Dietary notes: Contains gluten; can be adapted to lower-fat options; high-protein comfort meal.

Expanded Conclusion

This Butter Chicken with Garlic Naan and Steamed Basmati Rice is the ultimate comfort meal, combining tender, spiced chicken, creamy tomato sauce, warm garlic naan, and fluffy rice. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply a cozy night at home.

With this recipe, you’ll learn to balance spices, cook perfectly tender chicken, and make soft, flavorful naan from scratch. The flavors are authentic, the process is approachable, and the result is a dish that’s both impressive and comforting.

Try it for yourself, share it with loved ones, and watch it become a staple in your dinner repertoire. Butter chicken isn’t just a dish—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and the joy of cooking at home.

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