Save Butter Chicken Fried Rice is the ultimate fusion dish, blending the creamy, aromatic spices of traditional Indian butter chicken with the savory, quick-cooking nature of classic fried rice. This recipe is a clever and delicious way to breathe new life into leftovers, resulting in a comforting meal that feels entirely gourmet.
Save By utilizing the flavorful sauce from your leftover butter chicken, every grain of rice becomes infused with deep, satisfying flavor. A final touch of butter at the end of the stir-fry process ensures a rich, silky finish that ties the whole dish together.
Ingredients
- Leftovers: 2 cups leftover butter chicken (with sauce, boneless pieces preferred)
- Rice: 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, cold)
- Vegetables: 1/2 cup frozen peas, 1/2 cup diced carrots, 1 small onion (finely chopped), 2 green onions (sliced, plus extra for garnish)
- Sauces & Seasonings: 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional), 1/2 teaspoon garam masala (optional), salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Oils & Fats: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Eggs (optional): 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Instructions
- Step 1
- Prepare all ingredients and have them ready, as the cooking process moves quickly.
- Step 2
- In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat.
- Step 3
- Add the onion and carrots. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Step 4
- If using eggs, push the vegetables to the side, pour in the beaten eggs, and scramble until just set. Mix with the vegetables.
- Step 5
- Add the cold rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Step 6
- Stir in the leftover butter chicken (chicken pieces and sauce). Add peas, green onions, and tomato paste (if using).
- Step 7
- Season with soy sauce, garam masala, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated and heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Step 8
- Add the remaining tablespoon of butter for richness. Toss to combine.
- Step 9
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with extra green onions.
- Step 10
- Serve hot as a main dish.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, always use basmati or jasmine rice that has been cooked and chilled overnight. This prevents the rice from becoming mushy and allows the individual grains to fry properly.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Feel free to customize this dish by adding chopped green chilies or a dash of chili sauce for extra heat. You can also mix in bell peppers or corn for added color and a touch of sweetness.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this dish hot as a main course. It pairs exceptionally well with a side of cooling cucumber raita or a crisp, fresh green salad to balance the rich and creamy flavors.
Save This Butter Chicken Fried Rice is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients and creative thinking can transform leftovers into a meal that is even more satisfying than the original. Enjoy the flavorful fusion of these two culinary worlds!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
Day-old cold rice works best as it separates easily and prevents clumping. If using fresh rice, spread it on a plate to cool and dry for 20-30 minutes before stir-frying.
- → What type of butter chicken works best?
Use butter chicken with boneless, bite-sized pieces and plenty of sauce for optimal flavor distribution. Homemade or quality store-bought versions both work well in this dish.
- → How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?
Keep the heat at medium-high throughout cooking and stir-fry continuously. Use cold, separated rice grains and avoid adding excess liquid beyond what the butter chicken sauce provides.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or gluten-free soy sauce. Verify that your butter chicken and all seasonings are gluten-free certified if needed.
- → What vegetables work well as additions or substitutions?
Bell peppers, corn, broccoli, snap peas, and baby corn all work wonderfully. Add harder vegetables like carrots earlier in cooking and softer ones like peppers with the rice.
- → How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a wok or skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or a bit of oil to restore moisture and texture.