Experience the magic of butter chicken in a whole new way with this incredibly easy and deeply satisfying casserole. This recipe delivers all the beloved flavors—rich, creamy, and aromatic with a hint of tang—but simplifies the cooking process dramatically. Perfect for a busy weeknight, it brings together tender chicken, fluffy jasmine rice, and a vibrant, spiced sauce in one baking dish. It’s a complete meal that requires minimal effort, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prepping.

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  1 cup uncooked jasmine rice

  Jasmine rice is favored for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture when cooked, making it an excellent base for this casserole. For a different texture, you could use long-grain white rice, but be aware that cooking times might vary slightly. Brown rice is also an option if you prefer whole grains, though it will require a longer cooking time and possibly more liquid.

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  3 tbsp butter, melted

  Butter is key to the “butter chicken” flavor, providing richness and helping to toast the rice slightly for a deeper flavor. Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the salt content. If using salted butter, adjust the added salt accordingly. Ghee can be used for an even more authentic flavor.

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  1 ½ cups chicken broth

  Chicken broth forms the liquid base for cooking the rice and infusing flavor into the entire casserole. Use low-sodium chicken broth to better manage the overall saltiness of the dish. Vegetable broth is a suitable vegetarian alternative, if you choose to adapt the recipe, or if you prefer a lighter chicken flavor.

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  1 tbsp minced garlic

  Freshly minced garlic adds a pungent, aromatic depth that is fundamental to butter chicken. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute with about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, but fresh is always recommended for the best flavor.

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  14 oz can fire roasted diced tomatoes

  Fire-roasted diced tomatoes provide a smoky depth and sweetness that elevates the sauce. Regular diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute, but you might miss some of that lovely roasted flavor. Draining the tomatoes slightly can help prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.

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  1 ½ lbs chicken thighs, cubed

  Chicken thighs are perfect for casseroles because they remain tender and juicy even after baking. Cube them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also be used, but be mindful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster. Cut them into slightly smaller pieces if using breasts.

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  1 tsp salt

  Adjust to taste, especially if your chicken broth or butter is salted. Salt enhances all the other flavors in the dish.

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  ½ tsp pepper

  Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick. You can increase or decrease this amount based on your preference.

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  2 tsp garam masala seasoning

  Garam masala is a blend of ground spices, common in Indian cuisine, offering warmth and aromatic complexity. It’s crucial for achieving that characteristic butter chicken flavor. Ensure your garam masala is fresh for the best potency.

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  1 tsp ground ginger

  Ground ginger provides a warm, slightly spicy note. Freshly grated ginger can also be used for a more vibrant flavor, about 1 tablespoon.

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  Toppings: lime, cilantro, sour cream and naan bread on the side

  These optional toppings add freshness, creaminess, and a perfect vehicle for scooping up all that delicious casserole. Don’t skip them for the full experience!

• Step 1: Prepare Your Oven. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Allowing the oven to fully preheat ensures even cooking from the moment you place the casserole inside. While the oven heats up, you can gather and prepare your ingredients.
• Step 2: Assemble the Casserole. Lightly spray a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. In the prepared dish, combine the uncooked jasmine rice, melted butter, chicken broth, minced garlic, fire-roasted diced tomatoes (undrained), cubed chicken thighs, salt, pepper, garam masala seasoning, and ground ginger. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until everything is well combined and the rice and chicken are evenly coated with the spices and liquid. This ensures that every bite will be full of flavor. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This tight seal is crucial for steaming the rice and keeping the chicken moist during the initial baking phase. Bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven.
• Step 3: Finish Baking. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. The rice should be mostly tender at this point, and the chicken cooked through. Give the casserole a gentle stir to redistribute the ingredients and ensure the rice on the bottom doesn’t stick. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This final uncovered baking time allows any remaining liquid to evaporate, helps the top of the casserole to brown slightly, and ensures the rice is perfectly fluffy. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to fully set. Top with your favorite fresh garnishes like a squeeze of fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and serve with warm naan bread on the side for a truly satisfying meal.

Nutrition