Save When your fridge is holding onto last night's takeout, why not turn it into a spectacular fusion feast? This Butter Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect solution for using up leftover curry, transforming creamy, aromatic chicken and its signature spiced sauce into a satisfying stir-fry. It is comfort food at its finest—a harmonious blend of Indian spices and classic fried rice techniques that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Save The key to this dish is the balance between the buttery tomato-based sauce and the fragrant grains. By stir-frying cold rice at a high heat, you ensure each grain is coated in flavor without losing its texture, creating a meal that feels intentional rather than just a reheat.
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: 2 large eggs, lightly beaten (optional)
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 of 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
Since stir-frying is a fast-paced process, ensure all your vegetables are chopped and your eggs are beaten before you turn on the heat. This prevents the rice or butter from burning while you prepare other components.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To increase the heat, add finely chopped green chilies or a dash of your favorite chili sauce. You can also boost the nutritional value by tossing in extra vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or even baby spinach during the final minutes of cooking.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this hearty fried rice alongside a cool cucumber raita or a crisp green salad to provide a refreshing contrast to the warm spices and rich butter chicken sauce.
Save This Butter Chicken Fried Rice is more than just a quick dinner—it is a creative way to enjoy every last drop of a favorite meal. Whether you are a fan of Indian cuisine or looking for a new twist on your weekly stir-fry, this fusion dish is sure to become a household favorite.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?
While day-old, cold rice works best for achieving fluffy, separated grains, fresh rice can be used. Spread it on a plate to cool completely first, or use the 'cold rice' setting if your cooker has one. Fresh warm rice tends to become mushy when stir-fried.
- → What if I don't have leftover butter chicken?
You can quickly prepare butter chicken from scratch, use store-bought versions, or substitute with cooked chicken pieces tossed in a simple butter-tomato sauce. Alternatively, try paneer, tofu, or additional vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- → How do I prevent the rice from sticking together?
Use cold, day-old rice and break up any clumps before adding to the wok. Ensure your wok or skillet is hot enough, and keep the ingredients moving throughout cooking. The oil and butter also help prevent sticking.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Check that your butter chicken sauce doesn't contain wheat-based thickeners, and verify all other ingredients for hidden gluten sources.
- → What vegetables work well as substitutes?
Bell peppers, corn, broccoli, snap peas, cabbage, and mushrooms are excellent choices. Add slower-cooking vegetables earlier in the process and quick-cooking ones near the end. Keep the total vegetable volume around 1.5-2 cups for best balance.
- → How can I add more spice to this dish?
Incorporate chopped green chilies, red chili flakes, sriracha, or chili sauce. Start with small amounts and taste as you go. A pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh ginger also adds nice heat and complexity.