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Dairy Free Butter Chicken

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A creamy and rich twist on the classic Indian dish, made dairy-free using coconut milk and packed with aromatic spices.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (114g) full fat coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 pounds (907g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts/thighs
  • 4 tablespoons (60ml) coconut oil, divided
  • 1 onion, finely diced
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
  • 1 chili, stemmed and minced
  • 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
  • 1 cup (228g) full fat coconut milk

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken by combining the marinade ingredients in a large mixing bowl: coconut milk, lemon juice, minced ginger, minced garlic, garam masala, black pepper, turmeric, and salt. Mix well.
  2. Add the chicken pieces into the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, ideally overnight.
  3. Cook the chicken in a large pot or skillet with 2 tablespoons coconut oil over medium-high heat in batches until browned, about 3 minutes per side. Set aside.
  4. Sauté diced onions in the remaining coconut oil for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili; cook for 1 minute.
  5. Add tomato paste, garam masala, ground coriander, ground cumin, and black pepper; stir for 2-3 seconds, adding water if necessary.
  6. Simmer the sauce by pouring in water, sugar, and salt. Allow it to thicken for at least 15 minutes.
  7. Blend the sauce until smooth, then return it to the pot.
  8. Combine with the remaining coconut milk/cream and add in the browned chicken. Let simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by rice or cauliflower rice.

Notes

Marinate overnight for best flavor and adjust spice levels according to preference. Vegan options available.

Nutrition

Keywords: Dairy Free, Butter Chicken, Indian Cuisine, Coconut Milk, Quick Dinner

Find it online: https://dishfoody.com/dairy-free-butter-chicken/