Dairy Free Butter Chicken

Rich, creamy, and extra saucy – this Dairy Free Butter Chicken is a must-make! Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish swaps heavy cream and yogurt for coconut milk, making it allergy-friendly without sacrificing flavor. With its aromatic spices and tender chicken, you’ll impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The rich combination of spices creates a deep, flavorful sauce that coats every piece of chicken perfectly.
• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies traditional butter chicken while keeping the essential flavors intact.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with rice, cauliflower rice, or naan to suit your preference!
• Allergy-Friendly: Made without dairy or heavy cream, it’s suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish can be marinated ahead of time for an even deeper flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Dairy Free Butter Chicken, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Pot or skillet
• Blender or food processor
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Allows you to mix the marinade thoroughly without spilling ingredients.
• Pot or skillet: A good quality pot distributes heat evenly, ensuring perfect cooking.
• Blender or food processor: Essential for achieving that silky-smooth sauce that defines great butter chicken.

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Ingredients

For the Marinade

• 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

For the Chicken and Sauce

• 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
• 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 and mix until fully coated. Set aside to marinate for at least 30 minutes (this can also be done up to 24 hours in advance).

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large pot or skillet, add 2 tablespoons of coconut oil over medium-high heat. Once hot enough, add chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each side for about 3 minutes until browned. Remove from pot and set aside.

Step 4: Cook Onions and Spices

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

Step 5: Add Tomato Paste and Spices

Lower heat to medium-low. Stir in tomato paste, garam masala, coriander, cumin, and black pepper. Cook for about 2-3 seconds while stirring continuously. If needed, add water to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Simmer the Sauce

Stir in water, sugar, and salt. Allow simmering over medium heat for at least 15 minutes until sauce thickens into a reddish-brown color.

Step 7: Blend the Sauce

Remove from heat. Transfer sauce to a blender and blend until smooth. Alternatively use an immersion blender directly in the pot.

Step 8: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return sauce to pot if blended separately; stir in remaining coconut milk/cream then add chicken pieces back into the sauce. Let simmer on medium-low heat for another 10 minutes.

Step 9: Serve

Serve topped with fresh cilantro alongside rice or cauliflower rice. Enjoy your delicious Dairy Free Butter Chicken!

Step 10: Store Leftovers

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

How to Serve Dairy Free Butter Chicken

Serving Dairy Free Butter Chicken is all about enhancing its rich flavors and textures. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes that complement its creamy, aromatic sauce.

With Rice

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, basmati rice absorbs the sauce beautifully.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that adds a light touch without losing flavor.
• Lemon Rice: Infused with lemon zest, it adds a tangy contrast to the creamy chicken.

With Naan or Flatbreads

• Gluten-Free Naan: Soft and chewy, perfect for scooping up the buttery sauce.
• Whole Wheat Flatbreads: A healthier alternative that’s still delicious for dipping.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Offers a fresh, vibrant flavor that brightens the dish.
• Mint Leaves: Adds a coolness that balances the spices beautifully.

Accompanied by Salads

• Cucumber Salad: Crisp and refreshing, it complements the richness of the butter chicken.
• Kachumber Salad: A mix of tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers dressed in lemon juice for added zest.

How to Perfect Dairy Free Butter Chicken

To achieve the best Dairy Free Butter Chicken, keep these tips in mind for maximum flavor and texture.

• Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: This ensures a rich creaminess that mimics traditional butter chicken.
• Marinate Properly: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor significantly.
• Cook Chicken in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning and proper cooking of each piece.
• Blend the Sauce Smoothly: A smooth sauce integrates flavors better and gives it a luxurious texture.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize heat by adding more or less chili as per your preference.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer thickens it and deepens its flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Dairy Free Butter Chicken

Pairing your Dairy Free Butter Chicken with delightful side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Basmati Rice: Classic choice; its fluffy texture pairs well with saucy dishes.
2. Cauliflower Rice: Low-carb alternative that’s easy to prepare; just sauté with seasoning.
3. Chickpea Salad: Nutritious and filling; toss canned chickpeas with diced veggies and dressing.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized complement the dish’s richness beautifully.
5. Aloo Gobi (Potato & Cauliflower): Spiced potato-cauliflower mix that adds heartiness—perfect for soaking up sauce.
6. Raita (Dairy-Free): A refreshing yogurt alternative made from coconut yogurt mixed with cucumber and mint; provides balance to spices.
7. Poppadoms: Crunchy lentil wafers add texture; serve them fresh or baked for a healthier option.
8. Sautéed Spinach with Garlic: A simple side that offers nutritional value while balancing flavors on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dairy Free Butter Chicken, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are common mistakes that can affect your dish.

• Ignoring the Marinade Time – Skipping the marination step can lead to bland chicken. Ensure you let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for more flavor.
• Overcrowding the Pan – Adding too many chicken pieces at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches to achieve the perfect sear.
• Not Using Fresh Spices – Stale spices can dull the flavor. Always use fresh spices and check their potency for a vibrant taste.
• Skipping the Blending Step – Leaving the sauce chunky will not give you that creamy texture. Blend until smooth for a rich, velvety sauce.
• Neglecting Gelling Agents – Without proper gelling agents, the sauce may not thicken as desired. Use plant-based options like agar-agar or pectin if needed.

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 a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
• Portion into smaller containers for easy reheating.

Reheating Dairy Free Butter Chicken

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Dairy Free Butter Chicken.

What is Dairy Free Butter Chicken?

Dairy Free Butter Chicken is a creamy and rich dish made with coconut milk instead of dairy products, providing a delicious alternative without compromising on flavor.

Can I customize this Dairy Free Butter Chicken recipe?

Yes! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach or adjust the spice level by using milder or hotter chilies.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

This Dairy Free Butter Chicken is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all your spice blends and sauces are labeled gluten-free.

What sides go well with Dairy Free Butter Chicken?

Serve it with rice, cauliflower rice, or naan bread. A side of steamed vegetables also complements this dish beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Dairy Free Butter Chicken is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Its creamy texture and bold flavors make it an excellent choice for any dinner party or family meal. Feel free to customize it with additional spices or veggies to suit your taste preferences!