Buttered Chickpeas are a rich and creamy vegetarian twist on the classic Indian butter chicken—made with chickpeas, warming spices, and a silky tomato-based sauce. This easy, protein-packed dish comes together in just 30 minutes and is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- Chickpeas: Protein-rich and hearty, they soak up all the bold, spiced flavors.
- Greek yogurt & cream: Add creaminess and tang to balance the spices.
- Garlic & ginger: Classic aromatics that build depth and warmth in the sauce.
- Lime juice: Brightens the dish and balances the richness.
- Garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cayenne: Add warmth, heat, and bold Indian-inspired flavor.
- Avocado oil & butter: Help sauté aromatics and create a silky, buttery sauce.
- Tomato paste & sauce: Form the base of the curry, adding richness and body.
- Cilantro: Adds a pop of freshness and color to finish.
Alternative Ingredients
- Greek yogurt: Swap with plain regular yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.
- Garam masala: Sub with equal parts cumin, coriander, and a pinch of cinnamon.
- Avocado oil: Use olive oil, ghee, or any neutral cooking oil.
- Heavy cream: Replace with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
- Tomato paste: Double the tomato sauce and simmer longer to thicken.
Nutritional Benefits
- High Protein: Chickpeas and Greek yogurt provide long-lasting energy and support muscle health
- High Fiber: Aids digestion, supports gut health, and helps keep you full longer
- Anti-Inflammatory: Spices like turmeric and ginger help reduce inflammation in the body
- Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes and spices protect cells from free radical damage
- Healthy Fats: Butter and avocado oil support brain function and heart health
- Immune Support: Garlic, ginger, and yogurt help strengthen the immune system
- Bone & Gut Health: Greek yogurt adds calcium and probiotics for stronger bones and digestion
- Gluten-Free Friendly: Naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt for dairy-free diets
Expert Tips
Mash some chickpeas: For a thicker texture, mash a few chickpeas into the sauce as it simmers.
Use room temp yogurt: This prevents curdling when adding it to the warm sauce.
Simmer low and slow: Let the sauce gently bubble to develop a rich, well-blended flavor.
Add greens: Stir in baby spinach or kale at the end for a nutrient boost.
FAQs
Yes! Soak and cook about 1.5 cups of dried chickpeas to replace two 15 oz cans.
It has a mild kick from cayenne—feel free to reduce or omit it for a milder version.
Absolutely. Use coconut yogurt, plant-based butter, and coconut milk instead of cream.
Definitely! Stir in spinach, peas, or chopped bell peppers in the last few minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Buttered Chickpeas with steamed basmati rice, warm naan, or roti to soak up the creamy sauce. For a balanced meal, pair it with a crisp cucumber salad or roasted vegetables on the side.
Storage Suggestions
Store Buttered Chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight and reheat gently before serving.
You’ll also enjoy:
- Baked Lamb Kofta with Yogurt Tahini Sauce
- Fattoush Salad
- Leftover Roast Chicken Curry Soup
- Curry Meatballs
- Saag Aloo
- Spicy Split Pea Soup
- Ambur Biryani
- Coconut Curry Cod with Tri-color Couscous
Butter Chickpeas
Ingredients
- 2-3 15 oz cans chickpeas drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup plain greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp garlic cloves minced
- 1 tbsp ginger minced
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne (optional)
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1/2 stick salted butter
- 3/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup cilantro plus more for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.2 tbsp garlic cloves, 1 tbsp avocado oil, 1 tbsp ginger
- Stir in garam masala, cumin, paprika, cayenne (if using), and turmeric. Toast the spices for about 30 seconds to enhance their flavors.1 tbsp garam masala, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp cayenne, 2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp turmeric
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to reduce acidity. Then add the tomato sauce and mix well. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently.3/4 cup tomato paste, 1 cup tomato sauce
- Lower the heat and stir in the butter until melted, followed by the Greek yogurt and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.1/2 cup plain greek yogurt, 1/2 stick salted butter, 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Stir in the chickpeas and let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and chickpeas are fully warmed through.2-3 15 oz cans chickpeas
- Stir in 1/4 cup chopped cilantro and lime juice before serving. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired. Serve with rice, naan, or your favorite flatbread.1/4 cup cilantro, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
Notes
- For extra flavor, toast whole spices before grinding and adding to the dish.
- Using full-fat Greek yogurt ensures a creamier texture without curdling.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control the spice level—start small if unsure.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day after flavors meld.
- Serve with rice or naan to soak up the delicious sauce.
- To make vegan, swap dairy with coconut yogurt, vegan butter, and coconut cream.
Nutrition
Disclaimer: I am a health and wellness coach with a degree in health science from Arizona State University. However, I am not a doctor or registered dietitian. Any information or advice provided on this website is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before making any dietary or lifestyle changes, especially if you have a medical condition. The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice or a substitute for it.
Omg I absolutely LOVE this recipe! It tastes wonderful and it takes me to that warm cozy place ❤️ thanks for sharing!
Thank you Amber! I am so glad you enjoyed this recipe 🙂
Such a good recipe! This is a must try!
Happy to hear you enjoyed the recipe Paul ! 🙂
Omg, this recipe is absolutely amazing! I will be cooking this for my mom next time she is in town she will love the authentic taste. 🤩
Love that! I hope she will enjoy it 🙂