Name: Creamy Vegan Butter Chicken with Chickpeas in 15 Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 medium Onion (Adds sweetness and depth; substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.); 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (Provides freshness; can be replaced with canned diced tomatoes if needed.); 1 can Canned Diced Tomatoes (Enhances flavor; fire-roasted varieties add extra depth.); 1 teaspoon Turmeric (Adds warmth and color; can be omitted.); 1 teaspoon Onion Granules (Boosts onion flavor; use garlic powder as an alternative.); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Provides a mild smoky flavor; adjust to taste.); 1 teaspoon Curry Powder (Infuses aromatic spices; adjust spice level based on personal preference.); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (Intensifies tomato flavor; use other tomato products in lesser amounts.); 1 cup Coconut Milk (Adds creaminess; use full-fat for richer texture.); 2 tablespoons Smooth Peanut Butter (Creates creaminess; substitute with almond or cashew butter if preferred.); 2 tablespoons Tamari (Provides umami flavor; can swap with soy sauce.); 1 can Chickpeas (The main protein source; substitute with butter beans or tofu for variation.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of spices wafting through the air, I couldn’t help but smile at the thought of this Easy Vegan Butter Chicken with Chickpeas taking shape. In just 15 minutes, I can whip up a dish that’s not only bursting with warmth and richness but also perfectly aligns with my vegan lifestyle. The creamy tomato sauce, enhanced by savory peanut butter, offers a unique and wholesome twist on the classic Indian dish we all love. Not only is this recipe a quick and easy weeknight dinner option, but it also packs a nutritious punch without any animal products. Whether you’re vegan or just looking to make a healthy switch, this delightful meal is sure to satisfy your cravings. Want to transform your dinner routine with this comforting dish? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Recipe a Must-Try?

Quick & Easy: This vegan butter chicken can be ready in just 15 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight meal when you’re short on time.

Satisfyingly Creamy: The unique blend of peanut butter and coconut milk creates a luxurious sauce that rivals traditional recipes, giving you that satisfying richness without any animal products.

Flavor Explosion: With a combination of spices like turmeric and paprika, every bite is packed with bold flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to switch the chickpeas for lentils or even tofu, making it easy to adjust to your preferred taste and texture.

Crowd-Pleaser Appeal: Perfect for both vegan aficionados and those who typically choose meat, this dish has something for everyone, ensuring your family will enjoy it!

If you’re looking for more quick and easy ideas, check out our delicious collection of plant-based recipes.

Vegan Butter Chicken Ingredients

For the Sauce

Medium Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish; substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes – Provides freshness and natural sweetness; can be replaced with canned diced tomatoes if needed.
Canned Diced Tomatoes – Enhances flavor and provides moisture; fire-roasted varieties add extra depth.
Turmeric – Adds warmth and color; can be omitted for a milder flavor.
Onion Granules – Boosts overall onion flavor; use garlic powder as an alternative.
Paprika – Provides a mild smoky flavor; adjust to taste or use smoked paprika for more depth.
Curry Powder – Infuses aromatic spices; adjust spice level based on personal preference. Alternatively, use vegan curry paste.
Tomato Paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor; other tomato products may be used in lesser amounts.
Coconut Milk – Adds creaminess; use full-fat for richer texture or light coconut milk for fewer calories.
Smooth Peanut Butter – Creates creaminess and richness; substitute with almond or cashew butter if preferred.
Tamari – Provides umami flavor; can swap with soy sauce for non-restricted diets.

For the Protein

Chickpeas – The main protein source, offering texture; substitute with butter beans or tofu for variation.

Feel inspired to whip up this delightful Vegan Butter Chicken? Enjoy a comforting dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Vegan Butter Chicken with Chickpeas

Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat, adding a drizzle of oil. Once hot, add the chopped medium onion and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes translucent and fragrant, signaling the perfect base for your Easy Vegan Butter Chicken with Chickpeas.

Step 2: Add Cherry Tomatoes
Next, incorporate the halved cherry tomatoes into the pan. Stir and allow them to cook for about 2 minutes until they soften and release their juices, creating a fresh and flavorful backdrop for the dish’s rich sauce.

Step 3: Mix in the Chickpeas and Spices
Add the drained chickpeas, canned diced tomatoes, turmeric, onion granules, paprika, and curry powder to the pan. Stir the mixture well and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant, allowing the spices to combine and infuse their aromatic essence into the Easy Vegan Butter Chicken.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the coconut milk, tomato paste, and smooth peanut butter, stirring to blend everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat for about 7-8 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency, adjusting with more coconut milk if desired.

Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving
Just before serving, stir in the tamari for an umami kick. Allow the sauce to heat through for a minute or two; then, serve your Easy Vegan Butter Chicken with Chickpeas immediately, paired with rice, quinoa, or naan to soak up that delicious, rich sauce.

Expert Tips for Easy Vegan Butter Chicken

Smooth Peanut Butter: Always use smooth peanut butter for the best texture; chunky varieties can disrupt the creamy consistency of the sauce.
Stirring Matters: Stir constantly while simmering to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan and burning—this is key for a perfect vegan butter chicken.
Adjust Thickness: If the sauce becomes too thick during cooking, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water or more coconut milk to reach your desired consistency.
Spice Control: Customize the curry powder level based on your taste preferences—more heat can be added by increasing chili powder or adding red pepper flakes.
Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooking can make the chickpeas too soft. Aim for that perfect tender bite for your dish.
Flavor Enhancers: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving; it brightens the vegan butter chicken beautifully.

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Butter Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover vegan butter chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of the vegan butter chicken in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the thawed dish on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently to restore its creamy texture. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of water or coconut milk.

Serving Suggestion: This dish is best served fresh, but keeping it stored properly ensures you can enjoy the rich flavors of your vegan butter chicken whenever you crave it!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Vegan Butter Chickens are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the onions and halve the cherry tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them in airtight containers to preserve freshness. Additionally, you can mix the spices and even combine the chickpeas with canned diced tomatoes, storing them together for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped ingredients, add the creamy sauce components as directed, and allow to simmer until warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy a nutritious and delicious weeknight dinner with minimal effort, just as comforting and creamy as if made from scratch right before serving!

What to Serve with Easy Vegan Butter Chicken with Chickpeas

Imagine a delightful table filled with vibrant colors and flavors, perfectly complementing your creamy creation.

Fluffy Basmati Rice: The tender grains soak up the rich sauce, providing the perfect backdrop for this savory dish. A classic pairing that ensures every bite is flavorful.
Warm Garlic Naan: Soft and pillowy, this Indian flatbread is ideal for scooping up the creamy sauce, making each meal a hands-on experience filled with warmth.
Crispy Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies gives a satisfying crunch and enhances the meal’s nutritional value, creating a delightful contrast to the silky chickpeas.
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A light and zesty salad with herbs and tangy yogurt balances the richness of the butter chicken, cleansing the palate beautifully.
Quinoa Pilaf: This protein-packed option enhances the meal, offering a nutty flavor and fluffy texture that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
Mango Lassi: A creamy, sweet yogurt drink that cools the heat from spices, providing a refreshing element that pairs perfectly with spicy dishes.
Chocó Coconut Bliss Balls: For a sweet finish, these dessert bites offer a rich, chocolaty flavor that echoes the creaminess of the main dish, making it a unique way to close the meal.

These pairings will transform your Easy Vegan Butter Chicken with Chickpeas into a delightful feast, making for an evocative dining experience that satisfies all palates.

Variations & Substitutions for Vegan Butter Chicken

Feel free to get creative and personalize this recipe to suit your taste buds!

Protein Swap: Replace chickpeas with lentils or tofu for a different texture and flavor, perfect for experimenting with heartiness.
Creamy Alternatives: Use almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a subtle shift in flavor, giving you a nutty twist in your sauce.
Veggie Boost: Stir in fresh spinach or peas to add brighter colors and extra nutrients, making your dish even more wholesome.
Heat it Up: Add chili flakes or fresh jalapeños for a spicy kick; crank up the heat to tantalize your taste buds and elevate flavor.
Tomato Variations: Opt for fire-roasted canned tomatoes for an added depth of flavor that mimics the taste of wood-smoked cuisine.
Coconut Cream: For richer texture, switch light coconut milk to full-fat coconut milk to create a lavish and more indulgent sauce.
Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or mint as a garnish; they will brighten up the dish and add aromatic freshness.
Sour Twist: Squeeze a bit of lemon or lime juice right before serving; it adds a zesty note that beautifully brightens the dish.

Looking for more delightful twists in your cooking? Explore our collection of plant-based recipes for even more inspiration!

Easy Vegan Butter Chicken with Chickpeas Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting onions?
Absolutely! When choosing medium onions, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size. Avoid onions with soft spots or dark spots all over, indicating spoilage. If you prefer a milder flavor, shallots are a great alternative and can easily be swapped in.

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very! Leftover vegan butter chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to maintain its freshness.

Can I freeze vegan butter chicken?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, freeze portions of the vegan butter chicken in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place them in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of coconut milk to restore creaminess if needed.

What if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your sauce becomes too thick during cooking or after refrigeration, you can easily adjust it. Just add a splash of water or additional coconut milk while reheating, stirring frequently until the desired consistency is reached. This ensures a luxurious texture in every bite.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! This vegan butter chicken recipe is gluten-free when you use tamari. For those with nut allergies, substitute smooth peanut butter with sunflower seed butter. Always check the labels for hidden allergens in canned ingredients like coconut milk and diced tomatoes.