Description
This Homemade Butter Chicken With Coconut Milk is a creamy, dairy-free twist on the classic Indian favorite. Tender chicken thighs simmer in a rich tomato-coconut curry, infused with garam masala, cumin, and paprika. Perfect with rice or naan, this comfort food dinner is naturally gluten-free, meal prep friendly, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs chicken thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil or ghee
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the chicken pieces until browned on the outside but not fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Add the tomato paste, garam masala, cumin, paprika, and turmeric. Stir and toast the spices for 1 minute.
7. Pour in the coconut milk and mix well until smooth.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet, stir to coat, and bring to a gentle simmer.
9. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and tender.
10. Stir in lemon juice and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
11. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with naan.
Notes
This dish tastes even better the next day, making it great for leftovers.
Use boneless chicken thighs for best flavor and texture.
You can add a pinch of chili powder if you like more heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg