Description
A creamy, rich Butter Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a velvety tomato-based sauce with plant-based yogurt, aromatic spices, and natural flavors, perfect for those seeking a luscious, comforting, and easily adaptable dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 500g chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 150g plant-based yogurt
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
Sauce
- 2 tbsp plant-based butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 400g canned tomatoes
- 50ml grape juice
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish and Serving
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine chicken thighs with plant-based yogurt, minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, ground coriander, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Mix well to coat all pieces evenly. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight in the refrigerator to deepen the flavors.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat plant-based butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook gently until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking while stirring until fragrant and golden, forming a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan and sear each side until lightly browned to lock in juices. Pour in canned tomatoes, grape juice, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Stir to combine and allow the mixture to simmer, letting the sauce develop its rich and luscious texture.
- Finish the Sauce: When the chicken is fully cooked, stir in additional plant-based butter and the natural gelling agent to thicken the sauce to a velvety consistency. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Continue to cook on low heat for about 10 minutes to marry all flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the dish for a bright herby contrast. Serve immediately alongside basmati rice, warm flatbreads, or your preferred sides.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken overnight for the most intense flavor penetration.
- Use freshly ground spices for enhanced aroma and taste.
- Simmer the sauce gently to fully develop richness without rushing.
- Adjust sauce thickness by adding more natural gelling agent or a splash of water if needed.
- Allow the dish to rest off heat for 5 minutes before serving to enhance flavor meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Simmering
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Butter Chicken, Plant-based, Creamy Curry, Indian-inspired, Gluten Free, Dairy-free
