Velvety Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan is a delightful dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe offers a rich and creamy sauce that beautifully infuses the flavors of coriander, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether serving it at a festive gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish brings warmth and comfort to any meal.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken
- For the Sauce
- How to Make Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan
- Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Step 3: Add Spices
- Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
- Step 5: Finishing Touches
- How to Serve Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan
- Pair with Fresh Salad
- Add Raita
- Offer Extra Naan
- Garnish with Fresh Coriander
- Include Lemon Wedges
- How to Perfect Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan
- Best Side Dishes for Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan
- Reheating Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy sauce creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master this recipe.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for pairing with fluffy rice or warm naan, catering to all preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings; everyone will love this comforting classic.
- Healthy Option: Made with lean chicken thighs and fresh ingredients, it’s a wholesome choice.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Gather these kitchen essentials before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking chicken evenly while simmering the sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring the flavors meld perfectly.
- Measuring spoons: Ensures accuracy in spice measurements, crucial for achieving the right flavor balance.

Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Sauce
- 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 a large skillet over medium heat.
* Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
* Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
With the aromatics ready:
* Add the bite-sized chicken thighs to the skillet.
* Cook until browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add Spices
Once the chicken is cooked:
* Sprinkle in ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder.
* Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with spices; cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Next, it’s time to create that velvety sauce:
* Pour in enough broth (or water) to cover the chicken halfway.
* Bring to a gentle simmer and reduce heat. Let it cook for about 15 minutes until chicken is tender.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Finally:
* Stir in crushed coriander seeds or chopped cilantro for freshness.
* Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving it hot over fluffy rice with warm naan on the side.
How to Serve Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan
Serving Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish for maximum enjoyment.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad complements the richness of the butter chicken.
Add Raita
- Serve a side of cooling raita made with yogurt, cucumber, and mint to balance the spices.
Offer Extra Naan
- Provide additional naan on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.
Garnish with Fresh Coriander
- Sprinkle fresh coriander leaves on top before serving to add a burst of flavor and color.
Include Lemon Wedges
- A squeeze of lemon over the butter chicken adds brightness to the dish.
How to Perfect Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan
Perfecting your Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan is all about technique and flavors. Here are some tips to enhance your recipe.
Use quality chicken: Opt for fresh boneless thighs for a tender texture that absorbs flavors well.
Marinate the chicken: Letting the chicken marinate in spices for at least 30 minutes will deepen its flavor.
Cook onions until golden: Sauté onions until they are golden brown for a rich base that enhances overall taste.
Add spices gradually: Introduce spices like coriander and garam masala slowly to build layers of flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Adjust creaminess: For a creamier sauce, consider adding more butter or a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
Best Side Dishes for Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan
Complement your Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan by serving it alongside these delicious side dishes.
Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad with chickpeas, diced peppers, and a light dressing adds freshness.
Spiced Cauliflower: Roasted cauliflower seasoned with cumin and paprika makes a flavorful addition.
Vegetable Biryani: Aromatic rice mixed with vegetables and spices provides a hearty side that pairs beautifully.
Saag Paneer: Creamy spinach cooked with paneer offers a lovely contrast in flavors and textures.
Cucumber Mint Salad: A light salad featuring cucumbers and mint brings crunch and coolness to balance the meal.
Daal Makhani: Rich lentils simmered in spices create a comforting side that complements butter chicken nicely.
Aloo Gobi: This spiced potato and cauliflower dish is not only delicious but also adds color to your plate.
Green Beans Stir-Fry: Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic make for a vibrant addition that’s simple yet satisfying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the marinating step: Marinating the chicken enhances flavor and tenderness. Always allow at least 30 minutes for marination.
- Using low-quality spices: Fresh, high-quality spices deliver the best results. Invest in good coriander and garam masala for rich flavor.
- Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Cook until just done to maintain juiciness.
- Ignoring texture: A smooth sauce is key to butter chicken. Blend ingredients thoroughly to avoid a grainy texture.
- Not adjusting spice levels: Everyone has different heat tolerances. Taste as you go and adjust chili powder according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover butter chicken in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Reheating Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot throughout.
- Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan?
Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan is a creamy chicken dish spiced with coriander served alongside fluffy rice and naan bread.
How can I customize my Butter Chicken with Coriander?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition or adjust spices to suit your taste preferences.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute unsalted butter with a non-dairy alternative such as coconut oil or vegan butter.
What sides go well with Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan?
Consider serving it with a fresh salad or raita made from yogurt and cucumber for a refreshing contrast.
Final Thoughts
This Butter Chicken with Coriander recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your family and friends. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences. Try it today!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Butter Chicken with Coriander, Rice, and Naan, a delightful dish that transforms any dinner into a special occasion. This creamy chicken curry is infused with aromatic spices and fresh coriander, creating a rich sauce that captivates the senses. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress both novice and seasoned cooks alike. Serve it alongside fluffy rice and warm naan for a complete meal that brings warmth and joy to your dining table.
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)
- Broth (or water) to cover the chicken halfway
- Fresh coriander seeds or chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté chopped onion until translucent, then add minced garlic and grated ginger; cook until fragrant.
- Add bite-sized chicken thighs to the skillet; brown on all sides.
- Sprinkle in spices (ground coriander, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder) and stir well.
- Pour in broth until chicken is halfway covered; bring to a simmer for about 15 minutes until tender.
- Stir in crushed coriander seeds or chopped cilantro before serving hot over rice with naan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 130mg





