Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan

Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan is a delectable dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender chicken simmered in a velvety sauce infused with coriander. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a cozy night in, this recipe stands out for its balanced spices and comforting textures. The combination of fluffy rice and warm naan enhances every bite, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices creates a deep, satisfying taste that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve it with rice or naan, or even over a fresh salad for a lighter option.
• Family-Friendly: This dish pleases palates of all ages, making it ideal for family gatherings.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen, providing delicious meals for days.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Proper equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or sauté pan: Ideal for evenly cooking the chicken and allowing the sauce to reduce properly.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures precision when chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients quickly.
• Measuring spoons: Guarantees accurate measurements for spices and ingredients, which is crucial for flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 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: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the vegetable oil and butter in your large skillet over medium heat. Once melted:
* Add the finely chopped onion.
* Sauté until translucent (about 5-7 minutes).
* Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger; cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to add your chicken pieces:
* Increase heat to medium-high.
* Add chicken to the skillet; cook until browned on all sides (about 6-8 minutes).

Step 3: Spice It Up

Once your chicken is browned:
* Stir in ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder.
* Mix well to coat the chicken evenly with spices.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

To create that luscious sauce:
* Lower the heat to medium.
* Add enough water or broth to cover the chicken halfway. Bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Final Touches

Let’s finish off this delicious dish:
* Simmer uncovered until chicken is cooked through (about 15-20 minutes).
* Adjust seasoning if necessary; stir in crushed coriander seeds or cilantro leaves before serving.

Now you’re ready to serve your Butter Chicken with Coriander alongside fluffy rice and warm naan! Enjoy this delightful meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at your table.

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

Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Salad

• A crisp salad made with cucumber, tomatoes, and onions adds a refreshing contrast to the rich butter chicken.

Accompanied by Raita

• Serve a cool yogurt-based raita on the side. It helps balance the spices in the dish while adding creaminess.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your butter chicken with freshly chopped cilantro or mint for an aromatic touch that brightens each bite.

Served in a Bowl

• Create a comforting bowl by layering rice at the bottom, topped with butter chicken, and served with naan on the side for dipping.

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

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality chicken: Choosing fresh, boneless chicken thighs ensures tender meat that absorbs flavors well.

• Marinate for flavor: Letting the chicken marinate in spices and yogurt for at least 30 minutes deepens the dish’s taste.

• Adjust spice levels: Modify chili powder according to your heat preference. Start small if you’re unsure.

• Incorporate homemade broth: Using homemade chicken broth enhances the depth of flavor compared to store-bought versions.

• Cook low and slow: Allowing the chicken to simmer gently helps develop rich flavors and tenderizes the meat.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan can enhance your meal’s appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Vegetable Samosas: Crispy pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas provide a delightful crunch as an appetizer.
2. Chickpea Salad: A protein-rich salad mixed with cucumbers and spices offers a refreshing complement to the rich curry.
3. Garlic Naan: Soft yet chewy naan brushed with garlic adds flavor while being perfect for scooping up curry.
4. Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt dip made with grated cucumber balances the heat from the butter chicken beautifully.
5. Spiced Lentils: Serve lentils cooked with cumin and coriander as a hearty side that pairs well with rice.
6. Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower florets add a nutty flavor that complements the dish nicely.
7. Basmati Rice Pilaf: Fluffy basmati rice cooked with spices makes a fragrant base for your butter chicken.
8. Green Beans Almondine: A simple dish of sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provides an elegant touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to less flavorful results. Allow the chicken to soak in spices for at least 30 minutes for better taste.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough. Aim for a tender, juicy finish by only cooking until fully done but not dry.
• Not Balancing Spices: Using too much or too little of spices like coriander can overpower or underwhelm your dish. Always measure carefully and taste as you go.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using dried herbs instead of fresh coriander can diminish flavor. Opt for fresh when possible to enhance the dish’s aroma and taste.
• Neglecting to Stir Frequently: Letting the sauce sit without stirring may cause it to burn. Stir regularly to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Butter Chicken with Coriander?
Butter Chicken with Coriander is a rich, creamy dish featuring tender chicken pieces cooked in a spiced tomato sauce infused with coriander.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or lamb based on your preference while maintaining similar cooking times.

How spicy is Butter Chicken with Coriander?
The spice level can be adjusted. Start with less chili powder and increase according to your taste preference.

What can I serve with Butter Chicken with Coriander?
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice and warm naan bread for a complete meal experience.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace chicken with chickpeas or paneer for a delicious vegetarian version that maintains the same flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Butter Chicken with Coriander recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that suits various occasions. It’s versatile enough to customize by adding vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Give it a try for your next meal!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan—a dish that perfectly balances rich spices and tender chicken. This recipe features succulent chicken pieces simmered in a creamy, coriander-infused sauce that promises to delight your taste buds. Serve it alongside fluffy rice and warm naan for a satisfying meal that’s ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but its flavorful profile makes it a fantastic choice for impressing guests or enjoying a weeknight dinner. Dive into this culinary experience that combines authenticity with simplicity.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 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

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil and butter over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until translucent (about 5-7 minutes). Add minced garlic and grated ginger; cook until fragrant (around 1 minute).
2. Increase heat to medium-high; add chicken pieces and brown on all sides (about 6-8 minutes).
3. Stir in spices: ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder; coat the chicken evenly.
4. Lower heat to medium; add enough water or broth to cover the chicken halfway and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer uncovered until chicken is cooked through (15-20 minutes); adjust seasoning as needed, stirring in crushed coriander seeds or cilantro leaves before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sauté
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg