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Dairy Free Butter Chicken

Dairy Free Butter Chicken

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Dairy Free Butter Chicken is a flavorful and creamy dish that brings the essence of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen without using any dairy products. This delightful recipe replaces traditional cream with rich coconut milk, ensuring a luscious texture that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The aromatic blend of spices creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making your meal feel special. Whether served over fluffy basmati rice or low-carb cauliflower rice, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. Easy to prepare and freezer-friendly, Dairy Free Butter Chicken is an excellent choice for quick weeknight meals or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts/thighs
  • 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (for marinade)
  • 4 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 1 onion, finely diced
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
  • 1 chili, stemmed, seeded and minced
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried fenugreek or kasoori methi
  • 1 cup full fat coconut milk or coconut cream

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine coconut milk, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and spices to create the marinade. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook marinated chicken in batches until browned; set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add remaining oil and sauté onions until translucent. Add garlic, ginger, and chili; cook until fragrant.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and spices; cook briefly before adding water and sugar. Simmer for 15 minutes until thickened.
  5. Blend the sauce until smooth, return it to the pot, then stir in remaining coconut milk and cooked chicken. Simmer for another 10 minutes.
  6. Serve topped with fresh cilantro alongside rice or cauliflower rice.

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