Meal-Prep Butter Chicken
Try this Meal-Prep Butter Chicken recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Meal-Prep Butter Chicken recipe, or contribute your own.
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 medium onion diced
- for the rice
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- large pinch salt
- 1 3/4 cups water
- 2 tablespoon melted butter
- for the butter chicken
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger finely minced or grated (or use paste)
- 2-3 cloves garlic finely minced or crushed
- 1 1/2 pounds (about 2-3) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 3/4-inch chunks
- 1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste (or 8-10 oz can of tomato sau
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (or paprika adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon fenugreek (i use powder but seeds or mustard seeds can be used too), optional*
- 1 cup heavy cream (sub for half & half or yogurt for low
- 1 cup basmati rice (or jasmine)
- for the garlic naan
- small pizza dough
- 1/4 cup minced cilantro (optional)
- Carbohydrate 8.73531354708868 g
- Cholesterol 40.7066666322553 mg
- Fat 33.6708329508896 g
- Fiber 2.77860785695934 g
- Protein 2.75893737168614 g
- Saturated Fat 12.1094164687291 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (416g)
- Sodium 156.773055467574 mg
- Sugar 5.95670569012935 g
- Trans Fat 2.02241642819615 g
- Calories 337 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat a large skillet or medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the oil and onions and cook onions down until lightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add ginger and garlic and let cook for 30 seconds, stirring so it doesn’t burn.
- Add the chicken, tomato paste, and spices. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until everything is cooked through.
- Add the heavy cream and simmer for 8-10 minutes stirring occasionally.
- Combine the garlic, butter, cilantro and butter in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Divide pizza dough into 8 equal portions. Roll the dough into a small circle using a rolling-pin.
- Heat up a skillet (cast-iron preferred) over high heat and lightly grease the surface with some oil to avoid the dough from sticking to the skillet.
- Place the dough in the skillet. When it puffs up and bubbles and burnt spots appear, flip it over and spread with the garlic butter mixture.
- Cook until done. Repeat the same until all dough is done.
- Wash rice until it runs clear then rinse.
- In a saucepan bring water to a boil. Add rice and stir.
- Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Turn off heat and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Measure 1 cup of cooked rice into each meal prep container.
- Pour about 1 cup of the butter chicken on the rice.
- Wrap a naan with foil or plastic wrap.
- To heat, microwave containers for 2 minutes or until steamy. Microwave naan for just 20 seconds.
My Go-To Meal Prep: Butter Chicken Bliss
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and after-school activities, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That's why meal prepping has become my absolute lifesaver. And nothing beats a batch of flavorful, comforting butter chicken for those hectic weeknights.
This isn't just any butter chicken; it's a recipe that’s been perfected over time, tailored to my family's tastes and my busy schedule. It's packed with aromatic spices, tender chicken, and a rich, creamy sauce that's utterly irresistible. The best part? It's incredibly versatile. I can easily customize it to our preferences – sometimes I add a bit more chili powder for a spicier kick, other times I opt for milder flavors. The beauty lies in its adaptability, making it a perfect go-to meal regardless of my family's mood or dietary whims.
One of the key advantages of this meal prep recipe is its efficiency. I can whip up a large batch on the weekend, portion it into individual containers, and have healthy dinners ready in minutes all week long. No more frantic searches for quick, healthy options during the week. This butter chicken recipe eliminates that stress completely, allowing me to focus on what truly matters: my family and their well-being.
Beyond the convenience, this butter chicken is also a fantastic way to ensure we're eating nutritious meals. I use lean chicken breast as a protein source, and the abundance of vegetables adds essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a complete meal in itself, requiring minimal effort during the week. This recipe is a testament to my belief in finding the perfect balance between healthy eating and a manageable lifestyle.
The naan bread is another crucial component of this meal prep strategy. Homemade naan, while seemingly complex, is surprisingly easy to make in larger quantities. I make a big batch and store them separately, ready to be heated alongside the butter chicken. It adds a delightful textural contrast to the creamy sauce and completes the authentic butter chicken experience. Each bite is a small slice of culinary heaven, and that little bit of homemade charm elevates the dish beyond simple convenience.
This butter chicken recipe isn't just about saving time; it's about nourishing my family with wholesome food while minimizing my time in the kitchen. It's a symbol of my commitment to healthy eating in the face of a demanding schedule. And that, my friends, is truly invaluable.
Beyond the Recipe: This recipe has become a staple in our household, but it's also sparked conversations about food, cooking, and the importance of family time. My kids love being involved in the meal prep process – from measuring ingredients to assembling the final containers. It's a fun activity we do together on weekends, strengthening our bond while preparing healthy meals for the week ahead. It's about more than just food; it’s about building memories and creating lasting traditions around the dinner table.
The flexibility of this recipe is another reason why it's so special. I can easily adapt it to different dietary needs. For example, I can use alternative milks for those with lactose intolerance or substitute the chicken with tofu or paneer for vegetarian options. The core flavors remain, while the adaptability makes it inclusive and accommodating to everyone’s preferences.
Meal prepping isn't just about efficiency; it's about mindful eating. By taking the time to prepare healthy meals in advance, I'm making a conscious decision to prioritize my family's well-being. It's a small act of self-care that has far-reaching consequences, reducing stress and promoting a healthier lifestyle. Knowing I have delicious, nutritious meals ready for my family is a wonderful feeling, freeing up my time and energy for the things that truly matter.
So, whether you're a busy professional, a stay-at-home parent, or simply someone who appreciates the convenience of meal prepping, I highly recommend trying this butter chicken recipe. It's a true game-changer, saving time, promoting healthy eating, and allowing you to enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals without the added stress. It's a recipe that embodies my culinary philosophy: simple, delicious, and above all, convenient.
