Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan

Name: Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 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

Published: September 3, 2025

by Dian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich Flavor: The velvety butter sauce infused with coriander creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for beginner cooks.
Versatile Meal: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions; it impresses every time.
Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to suit your taste preferences easily.
Satisfying Comfort Food: The combination of chicken, rice, and naan guarantees a filling meal that warms the soul.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, ensure you have all the necessary tools on hand for a smooth preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring spoons
Serving dishes

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Ideal for cooking chicken evenly while allowing enough space for simmering the sauce.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and mincing garlic quick and easy, enhancing your prep efficiency.

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

For the Spices

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 Onions

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger

Once the onions are ready, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate Spices

Add in the ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir well to coat the onion mixture in spices. Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Cook Chicken

Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the spiced mixture. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.

Step 5: Finish Sauce

Pour in a splash of broth or water as needed to create a saucy consistency. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Adjust seasoning with salt if desired.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your Butter Chicken over fluffy rice and alongside warm naan for dipping. Garnish with crushed coriander seeds or fresh cilantro leaves for an extra flavor boost!

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

Serving Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan is a delightful experience that combines rich flavors with comforting textures. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pairing with Fresh Ingredients

Cilantro Garnish: Top your butter chicken with fresh cilantro leaves for extra flavor and color.
Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick that complements the richness of the dish.

Accompanying Condiments

Mango Chutney: The sweet and tangy notes of mango chutney balance the spices in the chicken beautifully.
Yogurt Sauce: A cool yogurt sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the warm spices in the butter chicken.

Serving Style

Family Style: Serve everything on one large platter for a communal dining experience.
Individual Bowls: For a more elegant presentation, serve butter chicken in individual bowls alongside rice and naan.

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

Perfecting Butter Chicken with Coriander requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

Bold Spices: Ensure your spices are fresh for maximum flavor. Old spices can dull the taste.
Marinate Chicken: Consider marinating chicken thighs in yogurt and spices for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
Cook Slowly: Cook the chicken gently over medium heat to keep it tender and juicy.
Creamy Texture: Stir in cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking for added richness without overwhelming the spices.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking to find the perfect balance of flavors.

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

Butter Chicken with Coriander pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here’s a list of fantastic options to consider.

Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice acts as a perfect base to soak up the rich sauce of butter chicken.
Vegetable Samosas: Crispy vegetable samosas provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy main dish.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with cucumbers and tomatoes adds freshness and balances out the richness.
Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower offers a flavorful veggie option that complements butter chicken well.
Chickpea Curry: A hearty chickpea curry creates a protein-rich side that adds more texture to your meal.
Naan Bread Variations: Opt for garlic or stuffed naan bread to add an extra layer of flavor when serving alongside your butter chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the marination step: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can result in less flavorful meat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the taste.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Ensure it’s cooked just until tender and juicy.
Ignoring spice balance: Using too much or too little spice can ruin the dish. Start with smaller amounts and adjust according to your preference.
Using low-quality ingredients: Poor quality butter or spices can affect flavor significantly. Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients for best results.
Neglecting to taste as you go: Not tasting during cooking can lead to an unbalanced dish. Regularly taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan

Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan?
Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan is a creamy dish made with spiced chicken served over rice and accompanied by soft naan bread.

Can I use vegetables instead of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with your favorite vegetables like cauliflower or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian version.

How spicy is Butter Chicken with Coriander?
The spice level can be adjusted based on personal preference. Start with less chili powder and add more if desired.

What type of rice pairs best?
Basmati rice is ideal due to its fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors well.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together.

Final Thoughts

Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan is a delightful blend of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Its versatility allows for customization—feel free to adjust spices or add vegetables as you prefer. Try this recipe today!