Dairy Free Butter Chicken

Rich, creamy, and full of flavor, this Dairy Free Butter Chicken is the perfect dish for family dinners or special occasions. By using coconut milk instead of heavy cream, this recipe caters to various dietary needs without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re following a Paleo or Whole30 lifestyle, this satisfying meal will delight anyone who tries it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Allergy-Friendly: Made with coconut milk, this dish is free from dairy, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
• Flavorful Experience: The blend of spices like garam masala and turmeric creates a rich and aromatic sauce that elevates the chicken’s taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal. It also works great as leftovers!
• Meal Prep Friendly: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the essential tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for marinating the chicken without mess.
• Pot or skillet: Ideal for cooking and simmering the sauce evenly.
• Blender or immersion blender: Ensures a creamy texture by blending the sauce smoothly.

Ingredients

To prepare your Dairy Free Butter Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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 and mix until fully coated. Set aside to marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate up to 24 hours in advance.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil over medium-high heat. Once hot enough (it should sizzle if you flick water on it), add chicken pieces in batches. Cook each side for about 3 minutes until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside; it will finish cooking later.

Step 4: Sauté 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 an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Add Tomato Paste and Spices

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 needed, add a splash of water if the mixture appears too dry.

Step 6: Simmer the Sauce

Stir in water, sugar, and salt. Allow it to simmer over medium heat for at least 15 minutes until thickened to a reddish-brown color.

Step 7: Blend the Sauce

Remove from heat. Transfer sauce to a blender in batches if needed; blend until smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot.

Step 8: Combine with Coconut Milk

Stir in remaining coconut milk/cream until well combined. Return chicken pieces to pot; let simmer over medium-low heat for another 10 minutes. Add dried fenugreek if using.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy

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

Step 10: Store Leftovers

Keep any leftovers 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 rich and flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. To enhance your dining experience, consider the following serving suggestions that elevate this meal to new heights.

With Rice

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy basmati rice is a classic choice, soaking up the delicious sauce effortlessly.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice provides a healthy alternative while still delivering great texture.
• Coconut Rice: Infuse your rice with coconut milk for a delightful twist that complements the flavors of the dish.

With Bread

• Naan: Soft and chewy naan bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce, offering a traditional touch to your meal.
• Roti: Whole wheat roti adds a wholesome element and pairs well with the spices in the butter chicken.

With Salad

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with yogurt dressing balances the richness of the butter chicken.
• Kachumber Salad: This Indian salad made with diced tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers adds crunch and freshness.

How to Perfect Dairy Free Butter Chicken

To make your Dairy Free Butter Chicken even more delicious, keep these tips in mind. They will help you achieve that perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) intensifies the flavors.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices can significantly enhance the aroma and taste of your dish.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add extra coconut milk or water until desired consistency is reached.
• Control Heat Level: Adjust the amount of chili pepper based on your spice preference; feel free to omit it for a milder dish.
• Blend Smoothly: For a silky sauce, ensure you blend thoroughly until smooth; this makes all the difference in texture.

Best Side Dishes for Dairy Free Butter Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Dairy Free Butter Chicken not only enhances its flavor but also rounds out your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Basmati Rice: The fluffy grains absorb the rich sauce perfectly.
2. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that provides great texture without compromising taste.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutritional value to your plate.
4. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed salad that offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
5. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach adds vibrancy and nutrients alongside your main course.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are perfect for dipping into that luscious butter chicken sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Dairy Free Butter Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key points. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring the marinade time – Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor. If possible, marinate overnight for best results.
• Using low-fat coconut milk – Opt for full-fat coconut milk for creaminess. Low-fat versions won’t provide the same rich texture.
• Overcrowding the pan – Cooking too much chicken at once can steam it instead of browning. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect sear.
• Skipping the blending step – Blending the sauce creates a smooth texture that enhances the dish. Don’t skip this important step!
• Not adjusting seasoning – Taste test your sauce before serving. Adjust spices and salt as needed for maximum flavor.
• Forgetting toppings – Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness. Don’t forget to garnish before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 5 days for optimal taste.

Freezing Dairy Free Butter Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best enjoyed within 3 months; label with dates.

Reheating Dairy Free Butter Chicken

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop – Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of protein?

Yes! This recipe works well with shrimp or tofu if you’re looking for alternatives to chicken.

What can I serve with Dairy Free Butter Chicken?

Serve it with rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal. Naan is also a great option if you prefer bread.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more chili peppers or cayenne pepper during cooking for extra heat. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and tastes even better after flavors meld in the fridge.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! This entire recipe is dairy-free by substituting traditional ingredients with coconut milk or cream.

Final Thoughts

This Dairy Free Butter Chicken is not only rich and creamy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, making it even more nutritious. Try this comforting dish today and enjoy its satisfying flavors!