Creamy Indian Butter Chicken with Golden Rice and Mango Chutney

Creamy Indian Butter Chicken with Golden Rice and Mango Chutney is a rich and aromatic dish that brings classic Indian flavors into your home kitchen. Featuring tender chicken in a velvety, spice-infused tomato cream sauce, this meal is perfectly balanced with fluffy basmati rice and a touch of sweetness from mango chutney. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a cultural flair.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Butter Chicken recipe is indulgently creamy and bursting with traditional Indian spices, yet simple enough to make at home without any special equipment. The combination of warming spices, tangy tomato sauce, and luscious cream makes it irresistible. Paired with basmati rice and mango chutney, it’s a complete meal that is both elegant and deeply satisfying. It’s also highly customizable for spice levels and dietary preferences.

Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Olive oil

Ground turmeric

Ground cumin

Ground coriander

Garam masala

Paprika

Ground cinnamon

Ground ginger

Cayenne pepper (optional)

Minced garlic

Fresh ginger, grated

Tomato sauce (14 oz can)

Heavy cream

Butter

Lemon juice

Salt to taste

Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Cooked basmati rice (for serving)

Mango chutney (for serving, optional but recommended)

Directions
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until golden brown on all sides, about 7–8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics and Spices: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, and all the spices: turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, paprika, cinnamon, ground ginger, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes until the spices become fragrant.

Add Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine with the spices. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Add Cream and Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream and butter. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Return Chicken to Sauce: Add the browned chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat. Simmer for 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

Finish and Serve: Stir in lemon juice and salt to taste. Serve hot over basmati rice and garnish with fresh cilantro. Add a spoonful of mango chutney on the side if desired.

Servings and timing
Servings: 4

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: Approximately 620 kcal per serving (including rice and chutney)

Variations
Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream with coconut cream and the butter with plant-based butter.

Milder Flavor: Omit cayenne pepper and reduce garam masala for a gentler taste.

Add Vegetables: Add peas, bell peppers, or spinach for a more colorful and nutritious dish.

Protein Options: Try using boneless chicken thighs or even shrimp for variety.

Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of basmati rice.

Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Freeze the cooled butter chicken (without rice) in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are slightly more flavorful and remain tender when simmered.

Is butter chicken the same as chicken tikka masala?
They are similar, but butter chicken is creamier and slightly sweeter, while tikka masala is spicier and more tomato-forward.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance. The flavors actually develop more over time.

What is the best type of rice to serve with butter chicken?
Basmati rice is ideal due to its fragrant aroma and light texture.

Can I make this recipe without cream?
You can substitute cream with full-fat yogurt, coconut milk, or a dairy-free alternative.

How spicy is this butter chicken?
It is mildly spiced. Adjust the cayenne pepper to increase or reduce the heat level.

What can I use instead of mango chutney?
Apricot preserves, pineapple chutney, or even a simple fruit compote work well as substitutes.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should be white and tender throughout, with no pink in the center, or reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to be certain.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients proportionally. Use a larger skillet or cook in batches.

Conclusion
Creamy Indian Butter Chicken with Golden Rice and Mango Chutney is a rich, flavorful, and comforting dish that brings the essence of Indian cuisine to your table. Easy to prepare yet full of complex flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you crave something warm and satisfying. With its tender chicken, velvety sauce, and vibrant accompaniments, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

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