Dairy Free Butter Chicken

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that warms your heart and tames your taste buds, then my Dairy Free Butter Chicken is just the ticket! This dish is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The rich, creamy sauce made with coconut milk will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s allergy-friendly and just as satisfying as the traditional version!

I love this recipe because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. You can even make it ahead of time for those evenings when you want to spend more time with family and less time in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this Dairy Free Butter Chicken, it will quickly become a go-to in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family-friendly: The mild flavors appeal to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the marinade in advance or even make the whole dish ahead of time—just reheat and serve!
• Rich and flavorful: The combination of spices and creamy coconut makes every bite a delightful experience.
• Healthy alternative: This recipe is not only dairy-free but also fits into Paleo and Whole30 diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Dairy Free Butter Chicken, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Marinade

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

For the 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)

Variations

The beauty of this Dairy Free Butter Chicken recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost.
• Spice it up: If you like more heat, add extra chili or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Coconut-free option: Substitute almond milk for coconut milk if you’re looking for a lighter version.

How to Make Dairy Free Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine your marinade ingredients: full fat coconut milk, fresh lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and spices. Mixing these together creates a flavorful base that tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with delicious flavors. Don’t rush this step; letting it marinate is key to achieving that mouthwatering taste!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Once your marinade is ready, add in the chicken pieces. Mix until they are fully coated. Set aside to let them soak up all those lovely flavors—at least 30 minutes will do! If you have time, marinating overnight works wonders too.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. When it’s hot enough (you’ll know when it sizzles if you flick some water on), add your marinated chicken pieces in batches. Browning them adds depth to their flavor; aim for about 3 minutes per side before removing them from the pot.

Step 4: Sauté Your Aromatics

In that same pot, toss in your diced onions and cook them until they turn translucent—around 5-7 minutes. Then add garlic, ginger, and chili pepper. This step is crucial as sautéing these aromatics brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of your dish!

Step 5: Build Your Sauce

Lower the heat to medium-low and add tomato paste along with garam masala, ground coriander, cumin, and black pepper. Stir continuously for about 2-3 seconds; this allows all those spices to bloom without burning. If it’s looking dry at any point, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water!

Step 6: Simmer It Down

Now stir in water, sugar, and salt. Let everything simmer on medium heat for at least 15 minutes until your sauce thickens into that gorgeous reddish-brown color we all love.

Step 7: Blend It Smooth

Remove your pot from heat and carefully transfer the sauce into a blender or food processor—remember not to overfill! Blend until smooth before returning it back into your pot. If using an immersion blender instead—pour it into a bowl first; then blend away!

Step 8: Final Touches

Mix in the remaining coconut milk or cream until well combined. Add those beautiful chicken pieces back into the sauce and let everything simmer on medium-low heat for another final 10 minutes—this is when all those flavors meld beautifully together!

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Top with fresh cilantro before serving alongside fluffy rice or cauliflower rice! You’ll want to enjoy every single bite of this rich and creamy Dairy Free Butter Chicken.

Step 10: Store Leftovers

If there are any leftovers (which I doubt!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge where they’ll stay good for up to five days.

And there you have it—a warm embrace of flavor perfect for any occasion! Enjoy making this Dairy Free Butter Chicken as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Dairy Free Butter Chicken

Creating the perfect Dairy Free Butter Chicken can be a delightful journey in the kitchen! Here are some tips to ensure your dish is as flavorful and creamy as possible.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor, making every bite tender and tasty. If you can, marinating overnight will elevate the taste even more.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and spices make a remarkable difference in flavor compared to dried or bottled versions. The vibrant taste of fresh ingredients can truly bring your dish to life!
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Letting your sauce simmer until it thickens allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This step is crucial for achieving that rich, velvety texture we all crave in butter chicken.
• Blend for Smoothness: Blending the sauce ensures a silky consistency that coats the chicken perfectly. A smooth sauce makes for a more cohesive dish, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of chili based on your spice preference. Balancing heat is key to enjoying this dish without overwhelming your palate!

How to Serve Dairy Free Butter Chicken

Serving Dairy Free Butter Chicken is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors! Here are some wonderful ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish beautifully.
• Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges alongside allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their portions, adding a zesty kick that enhances the overall flavor.

Side Dishes

• Basmati Rice: This classic side is light and fluffy, perfect for soaking up the rich sauce of the butter chicken. Its subtle flavor complements without overpowering.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice offers a nutritious option that’s just as satisfying when paired with this creamy dish.
• Naan Bread (Dairy-Free): Soft, warm naan makes a delightful accompaniment for scooping up sauce and chicken pieces. Look for dairy-free versions at your local store!
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds a healthy crunch and balances out the richness of the butter chicken.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to impress family or friends with your amazing Dairy Free Butter Chicken! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Dairy Free Butter Chicken is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also makes weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and keep your delicious creation fresh.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, let the butter chicken cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave for quick defrosting.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or coconut milk if needed to adjust consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Dairy Free Butter Chicken.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken for Dairy Free Butter Chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or lentils for a vegetarian option that still delivers great flavor and texture.

How can I make this Dairy Free Butter Chicken spicier?

To add more heat, incorporate more chili peppers during cooking or include a pinch of cayenne pepper in the spice mix. Adjust according to your taste preference!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Dairy Free Butter Chicken is ideal for meal prep as it stores well and flavors deepen when reheated. Perfect for busy weeknights!

What can I serve with Dairy Free Butter Chicken?

Serve this dish with rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice. A side of steamed vegetables or naan bread complements it wonderfully too!

Can I make Dairy Free Butter Chicken ahead of time?

Definitely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and cook it just before serving. It also tastes fantastic as leftovers!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Dairy Free Butter Chicken as much as I do! It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor while being allergy-friendly. Your family will love it, and it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Give it a try, share it with friends, and savor every comforting bite!