Rachael Ray Butter Chicken Recipe

Rachael Ray’s butter chicken brings rich, spiced, creamy goodness to the table in less than an hour!

Rachael keeps the process simple without losing the depth of a slow-simmered dish.

Marinating the chicken in yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes makes all the difference—it keeps it tender and lets the seasoning soak in.

The sauce comes together quickly with tomato puree, cream, and just the right amount of warming spices to bring everything together.

A pat of butter right before serving brings everything together, rounding out the sauce in the best way possible.

Scoop it up with warm naan or serve it over rice for a meal that’s as comforting as it gets.

How to Make Rachael Ray Butter Chicken

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Chicken (boneless, skinless)
• 2 tbsp Ghee or Oil
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 1 Onion (chopped)
• 1 tbsp Garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp Ginger (grated)
• 1 cup Tomato Sauce
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 2 tbsp Garam Masala
• 1 tsp Cumin
• 1 tsp Coriander
• Salt to taste
• Fresh Cilantro (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Heat ghee or oil and butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken, browning it for about 3 minutes on each side.

Step 2:

Remove the chicken and set it aside.

In the same skillet, sauté the onion until it becomes translucent.

Step 3:

Add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.

Stir in tomato sauce, heavy cream, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and salt.

Step 4:

Return the chicken to the skillet.

Simmer the mixture on low heat until the chicken is cooked through, about 20 minutes.

Step 5:

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy with rice or naan for a complete meal!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Don’t Crowd the Pan

When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan so that each piece browns evenly and seals in the juices.

Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Feel free to taste the sauce as it cooks, adjusting the spices or salt according to your preference to get the perfect blend of flavors.

Fresh is Best

Using fresh ginger and garlic can enhance the overall flavor of your butter chicken, making it even more aromatic and delicious.

What to Serve with Rachael Ray Butter Chicken Recipe

Basmati Rice

You can’t go wrong with a classic side of fragrant basmati rice when enjoying butter chicken.

The long grains of basmati rice perfectly soak up that rich, buttery sauce, creating a harmonious balance.

Garlic Naan

For a delicious and traditional accompaniment, garlic naan is a must-have.

There’s nothing like tearing into the soft, warm bread and scooping up some of that luscious butter chicken.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try making homemade garlic naan for that extra personal touch!

Cucumber Raita

To cool things down and provide a refreshing contrast, cucumber raita is a great choice.

This yogurt-based side dish adds a creamy element and delicate flavor that balances the spiciness of the butter chicken.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

If you want to try something out of the box, why not add roasted Brussels sprouts to your table?

Their slightly bitter edge complements the rich flavors of the butter chicken, and when roasted, they bring a delectable crunch.

Sweet Coconut Peshwari Naan

For a sweet twist, consider serving coconut Peshwari naan alongside your meal.

The coconut adds a subtle sweetness that counterpoints the savory notes of the butter chicken beautifully.

Mashed Cauliflower

Want something that’s both creamy and a little unexpected? Mashed cauliflower could be your new favorite side.

It’s smooth and velvety, pairing surprisingly well with the rich sauce of the butter chicken.

Variations and Substitutions

Different Proteins

You can switch out the chicken for tofu, paneer, or even shrimp if you’re looking to try something new.

Adjusting the cooking time will help them cook perfectly while retaining great texture.

Spices and Flavor

Feel free to customize the spice blend to match your preferences.

Using extra turmeric or smoked paprika can add a unique twist that makes the dish feel more personalized.

Dairy Alternatives

If you’re avoiding dairy, coconut cream can work as a great substitute for traditional cream in the recipe.

It adds a slight sweetness that complements the dish wonderfully.

Vegetables and More

Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or peas to introduce more color and nutrients.

These not only bring varied textures but also enhance the dish’s overall appeal!

How to Store Leftover Rachael Ray Butter Chicken

Airtight Storage

You should use an airtight container to store your leftover butter chicken.

This helps keep it fresh and prevents bacteria from getting in.

Make sure you refrigerate the butter chicken within two hours of cooking.

Short-Term Refrigeration

When you’re storing it in the fridge, keep it for no longer than 3-4 days.

I’ve found that this time frame keeps the flavors intact and safe to eat.

Always remember to label the container with the date of storage.

Freezing for Longevity

If you want to keep it for a longer period, freezing is your best bet.

Make sure to seal the container well to prevent freezer burn.

You can keep it frozen for up to two months while maintaining quality.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Marinating the Chicken Long Enough

You’ve got to give the chicken time to soak up those flavors!

Marinating for less than six hours is often not enough.

Go for overnight marination for the best results.

Using the Wrong Cut of Chicken

Avoid those dry and chewy results by picking the right chicken cut.

Boneless thighs are my go-to choice because they stay juicy.

Skip the breast meat if you can, as it can dry out quickly.

Overcooking the Sauce

Keep an eye on that sauce, and don’t let it simmer too long!

Overcooking can lead to a thicker, less appetizing texture.

You want your sauce to be creamy, smooth, and not too thick.