Butter Chicken Meatballs & Rice Casserole

Butter Chicken Meatballs & Rice Casserole is one of those dishes you dive into and get a mouthwatering mix of Indian spiced buttery chicken meatballs in a sauce baked with fluffy cumin rice. This is a gluten-free casserole with grain-free meatballs that is easy to put together — just let the oven do the work. The coconut-tomato sauce is flavored with warm Indian spices like garam masala, coriander, and turmeric, with fresh ginger and garlic—so much flavor in every spoonful.

Butter Chicken Spice Mix

If your pantry doesn’t include Indian spices, pre-made gluten-free butter chicken spice mixes are available. They contain a blend of spices specifically designed for butter chicken. To use a butter chicken spice mix, replace all individual spices in the meatballs and the sauce. You’ll need 3 tablespoons of the mix for the sauce and 1 tablespoon for the meatballs.

Alternative Bindings for Gluten-Free Chicken Meatballs (1/2 cup)

• Oats: Certified gluten-free rolled or quick oats.
• Bread Crumbs: Gluten-free versions work well.
• Crushed Crackers: Gluten-free crackers crushed into small pieces.
• Cooked Rice: Adds a different texture.
• Mashed Potatoes: Adds moisture and binding.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Provides flavor and helps bind.
• Shredded Coconut: Adds unique flavor and texture.

If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a little bit of chicken broth to help with binding and moisture.

Vegetable Add-Ins for Butter Chicken Sauce

Enhance both flavor and nutrition by adding vegetables to your butter chicken sauce. Here are some choices:

Mushrooms: Add a savory depth and are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

Carrots: Introduce a subtle sweetness and are high in vitamins A and K.

Peas: Provide sweetness, protein, and fiber, adding a fresh flavor.

Zucchini: Offers a mild taste and is high in vitamins C and A.

Bell Peppers: Add vibrant color and sweetness, rich in vitamins A and C.

Corn: Adds sweetness and crunch with fiber and essential minerals.

Rice Substitutions

If you prefer alternatives to rice, try:

Gluten-Free Noodles: Substitute with short gluten-free pasta, cooked as per package instructions. Skip the broth in the recipe.

Sweet Potatoes: Dice sweet potatoes and roast them until tender, or layer lightly buttered and seasoned thinly sliced sweet potatoes directly in the baking dish. Use only 1 cup of broth in the recipe.

Low-Carb Option: Cauliflower rice is a low-carb, vegetable-based alternative to rice. It adds a nice texture and absorbs flavors well. Sauté cauliflower rice in a bit of butter/coconut oil for a few minutes until just tender before layering it in the baking dish. Skip the broth.

Tips For Best Butter Chicken Meatballs & Rice Casserole

1. Meatball Texture: If your meatball mixture seems dry, add a little chicken broth to moisten it.
2. Rice Consistency: Ensure the rice is well-drained before mixing it with the broth to avoid a mushy texture.
3. Sauce Thickness: If the sauce thickens too much while simmering, add a splash of coconut milk or broth to loosen it.
4. Flavor Boost: For extra depth of flavor, add a pinch of red chili flakes and a squeeze of lime juice to the sauce.

Pair your casserole with:

Vegetable Sides:

Roasted Sweet Potato with Cumin

Maple Ginger Roasted Carrots

Simply Roasted Fennel With Carrots

Salads:

Raita Yogurt: Cooling yogurt mixed with cucumber, mint and seasoning

Chickpea Salad: Protein-packed Chickpea Salad with Tomatoes and Cucumber

Bread:

Naan or Roti/Chapati: Try this Gluten-Free Naan Bread Recipe. Perfect for scooping up the dish.

Pickles:

Indian-style pickles for a tangy contrast.

Mint Chutney:

Refreshing and spicy mint chutney.

Bring the Flavors of India to Your Table with These Gluten-Free Dishes

Gluten Free Vegetable Pakora

Gluten-Free Baked Yam Falafel

Gluten-Free Spicy Beef Samosas

Coconut Curry Lentil Soup (Vegan, Gluten-Free)

Indian Spiced Creamy Rice Pudding, Dairy Free

Butter Chicken Meatballs & Rice Casserole: Recipe Review

This Butter Chicken Meatballs Rice Bake Casserole is a family favorite for a reason. The combination of tender meatballs, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce creates a comforting meal packed with flavor. 

The butter chicken sauce, with its blend of spices, infuses the dish with warmth, while the tender tasty meatballs add a satisfying protein boost. It’s a gluten-free well-balanced dish that is as satisfying as flavorful, making it perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.