Creamy Chicken Masala with Basmati Rice

When you’re craving a cozy, indulgent dish that doesn’t take hours to make, Creamy Chicken Masala with Basmati Rice hits all the right notes. With its rich, spiced tomato-based sauce swirled with cream and tender chicken simmered to perfection, this dish delivers bold, comforting flavors in every bite. It’s inspired by Indian-style masala gravies but simplified enough for home cooking.

Paired with fluffy basmati rice that soaks up the creamy sauce, this dish is perfect for family dinners or a flavorful weeknight meal. Best of all, it can be made in under 40 minutes with pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Whether you serve it with naan or just the rice, it’s a satisfying plate you’ll return to again and again.

 Ingredients:

For the Chicken Masala:

• 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cubed
  
• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
  
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
  
• 1 tsp grated ginger
  
• 2 tsp garam masala
  
• 1 tsp turmeric
  
• 1 tsp ground cumin
  
• 1 tsp paprika or Kashmiri red chili powder
  
• Salt and pepper to taste
  
• 1 cup tomato purée or crushed tomatoes
  
• ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
  
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (for garnish)
  

For the Basmati Rice:

• 1 cup basmati rice
  
• 1¾ cups water
  
• 1 tbsp butter or oil
  
• Pinch of salt
  

 Instructions:

1. Cook the Basmati Rice:

• Rinse rice until water runs clear.
  
• In a pot, add rice, water, salt, and butter/oil.
  
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
  
• Let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
  

2. Make the Chicken Masala:

• Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until golden.
  
• Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  
• Add the spices and cook for 30 seconds to bloom the flavor.
  
• Add chicken pieces and sauté until browned on all sides.
  
• Pour in tomato purée and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
  
• Stir in cream and simmer for another 5 minutes until thick and creamy.
  

3. Serve:

• Spoon the creamy chicken masala over basmati rice.
  
• Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm.
  

 Tips & Variations:

• Want it spicy? Add fresh green chili or a pinch of cayenne.
  
• Substitute chicken with paneer or tofu for a vegetarian version.
  
• Add peas or spinach for extra texture and nutrition.
  

Image Prompt:

A bowl of fluffy basmati rice topped with creamy orange-red chicken masala, garnished with fresh cilantro and swirls of cream. The chicken is tender, coated in rich sauce, and served in a rustic ceramic dish with warm tones. A spoon rests beside the bowl, and a soft linen napkin completes the cozy scene.

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 Meta Title:

Creamy Chicken Masala with Basmati Rice – Easy Indian-Inspired Dinner

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 Meta Description:

Make this rich and flavorful Creamy Chicken Masala with Basmati Rice in under 40 minutes. A comforting, spiced dish perfect for family dinners and weeknights.