Dairy Free Butter Chicken

Rich, creamy, and extra saucy – this Dairy Free Butter Chicken is a must-make! It takes the classic dish to a new level by swapping heavy cream and yogurt with coconut milk, making it an allergy-friendly option. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy gatherings, this recipe is both satisfying and delicious without compromising on flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Dairy Free Butter Chicken comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: With a blend of spices like garam masala and turmeric, each bite bursts with authentic Indian flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that everyone will enjoy.
• Allergy-Friendly: Free from dairy and gluten, this recipe caters to various dietary needs while still being indulgent.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch ahead of time and store leftovers for easy meals throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Dairy Free Butter Chicken, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Pot or skillet
• Blender or immersion blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for marinating chicken evenly in the spice mix.
• Pot or skillet: A versatile tool that allows for browning the chicken and simmering the sauce.
• Blender or immersion blender: Needed to create a smooth sauce that enhances the dish’s texture.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful Dairy Free Butter Chicken:

Marinade Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (114g) full fat coconut milk, coconut cream or coconut yoghurt (see notes)
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds (907g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts and/or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 tablespoons (60ml) coconut oil, divided
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
• 1 chili, stemmed, seeded and minced (see notes for type)
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) water
• 1/2 cup (64g) tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried fenugreek or kasoori methi (see notes)
• 1 cup (228g) full fat coconut milk or coconut cream (from a can)

How to Make Dairy Free Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, mix together the marinade ingredients: coconut milk, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and spices until combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Mix until fully coated. Set aside for at least 30 minutes; marinating overnight is also an option.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

In a large pot or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil over medium-high heat. When hot enough (it should sizzle when water drops hit), add chicken in batches. Cook for about 3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from pot and set aside.

Step 4: Cook Onions and Aromatics

Add remaining oil to the same pot along with diced onions. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until translucent. Add garlic, ginger, and chili pepper; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Add Spices and Tomato Paste

Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in tomato paste along with garam masala, ground coriander, cumin, and black pepper. Cook for about 2–3 seconds while stirring continuously. If dry, add a couple of tablespoons of water as needed.

Step 6: Simmer the Sauce

Pour in water along with sugar and salt. Let simmer over medium heat for at least 15 minutes until thickened into a reddish-brown color.

Step 7: Blend Until Smooth

Remove from heat. Transfer sauce to a blender—do not fill more than halfway—or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until smooth before returning it back to the pot.

Step 8: Finish Cooking the Chicken

Stir in remaining coconut milk/cream. Add browned chicken pieces back into the sauce. Let simmer on medium-low heat for another 10 minutes. Stir in dried fenugreek if using.

Step 9: Serve Your Dish

Serve topped with fresh cilantro alongside rice or cauliflower rice. Enjoy!

Step 10: Store Leftovers

Keep any leftovers stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

How to Serve Dairy Free Butter Chicken

Dairy Free Butter Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some creative ways to serve this creamy delight for a complete meal experience.

With Rice

• Basmati Rice: The classic choice, fluffy basmati rice absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice is light yet complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

With Naan

• Gluten-Free Naan: Made from gluten-free flour, this naan allows everyone to enjoy dipping into the sauce.
• Whole Wheat Naan: Healthier than traditional naan, it has a nutty flavor that pairs well with the spice in the dish.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro Garnish: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for an extra burst of freshness and color.
• Mint Chutney: A drizzle of mint chutney adds a refreshing contrast to the rich butter chicken.

How to Perfect Dairy Free Butter Chicken

Creating the perfect Dairy Free Butter Chicken requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: For a creamier texture, using full-fat coconut milk or cream will elevate your sauce.
• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate for several hours or overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Balance Spices Carefully: Adjust spices according to your taste; adding more garam masala can deepen flavor, while reducing chili can tone down heat.
• Blend Sauce Smoothly: Blending the sauce until smooth creates a velvety consistency that coats the chicken beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Dairy Free Butter Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Dairy Free Butter Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds a healthy crunch and color contrast.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized brings out natural sweetness.
3. Chickpea Salad: A refreshing salad with chickpeas, cucumbers, and tomatoes provides protein and fresh flavors.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa cooked with spices serves as a hearty base for soaking up the sauce.
5. Lentil Soup: A warm lentil soup can serve as a comforting starter before diving into your main dish.
6. Cucumber Raita: This yogurt-based side offers coolness against the spices in your butter chicken. Use dairy-free yogurt for consistency!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dairy Free Butter Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes or even overnight for best results.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too many pieces of chicken at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect sear and deeper flavor.
• Using low-quality spices: Fresh spices are key to a vibrant dish. Make sure your spices are fresh and aromatic; replace any that have been sitting for too long.
• Not blending the sauce: Leaving the sauce chunky can affect its creaminess. Blend it until smooth for that rich, buttery texture you desire.
• Ignoring cooking times: Rushing through cooking can result in undercooked chicken. Ensure each step is followed, especially simmering the sauce until it thickens properly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Dairy Free Butter Chicken

• Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to three months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Dairy Free Butter Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container on medium power, stirring every minute until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Dairy Free Butter Chicken, along with their answers.

What is Dairy Free Butter Chicken?

Dairy Free Butter Chicken is a creamy and flavorful Indian dish made without dairy products, using coconut milk as a substitute.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free! Just ensure that your spices and any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option while keeping it dairy-free.

What can I serve with Dairy Free Butter Chicken?

Serve it with rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal. Naan bread is also a great option if you want something extra!

How long does it take to prepare Dairy Free Butter Chicken?

The total time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including prep and cook time.

Final Thoughts

Dairy Free Butter Chicken is not only delicious but also accommodates various dietary preferences. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. Feel free to customize it with your choice of protein or add more vegetables for added nutrition. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!