Easy Garlic Naan Bread

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Soft, buttery, and full of garlicky goodness, this Easy Garlic Naan Bread is your next must-try recipe. Whether you’re dipping it into your favorite curry or enjoying it with a spread of hummus, these pan-cooked flatbreads are downright irresistible. They have a pillowy texture, gorgeous blistered spots, and the perfect brush of garlic herb butter to finish them off.

Homemade naan might sound intimidating, but it’s surprisingly simple to make. No tandoor oven is needed! Just a hot skillet, a bit of patience, and a few basic ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Once you taste fresh naan straight from the pan, you might never go back to store-bought.

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Can I Use Store-Bought Dough to Make Garlic Naan?

You can, but for the best texture and flavor, homemade dough wins every time. Store-bought dough (like pizza dough or refrigerated biscuit dough) can be a shortcut, but it won’t offer the same soft and chewy consistency. Plus, making the dough from scratch lets you control the flavor and avoid preservatives.

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Ingredients for the Easy Garlic Naan Bread

All-purpose flour: The base of the dough, providing the right balance of softness and structure.

Greek yogurt: Adds richness and a slight tang, keeping the naan tender and flavorful.

Baking powder: Acts as the leavening agent, helping the naan puff up slightly.

Salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the garlic.

Olive oil: Adds moisture and helps give the naan a golden finish when cooked.

Warm water: Brings the dough together and activates the baking powder.

Garlic (minced): The star ingredient for that bold garlic flavor in the butter topping.

Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed with garlic to brush over the hot naan for that glossy, flavorful finish.

Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness to the final touch.

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How To Make the Easy Garlic Naan Bread

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the Greek yogurt, olive oil, and warm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for about 5–7 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic.

Step 2: Let It Rest

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature. This resting time allows the dough to hydrate and soften, making it easier to roll out.

Step 3: Divide and Shape

After resting, divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then use a rolling pin to flatten each ball into an oval or teardrop shape about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 4: Cook the Naan

Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until hot. Place one piece of dough onto the dry skillet. Cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbles form and the underside has golden brown spots. Flip and cook the other side for another 1–2 minutes. Repeat with remaining dough.

Step 5: Add the Garlic Butter

Melt the unsalted butter and stir in the minced garlic. As soon as each naan comes off the skillet, brush it generously with the garlic butter. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.

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Serving and Storing Garlic Naan Bread

Garlic naan is best served warm right after cooking. Pair it with curries, soups, stews, or your favorite spreads. It’s also a fantastic side for grilled meats or veggie platters.

To store leftovers, let the naan cool completely and place in an airtight container or wrap in foil. It will stay fresh at room temperature for 1–2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze with parchment paper between each piece and reheat in a skillet or oven.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reheat garlic naan?

Use a dry skillet over medium heat or place it in a 300°F oven wrapped in foil until warm. Avoid the microwave for best texture.

Can I make this naan dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free yogurt and vegan butter to keep the texture and flavor just right.

Why isn’t my naan puffing up?

Your skillet might not be hot enough. Be sure it’s properly preheated before cooking the dough.

Can I add cheese to the naan?

Absolutely. Try stuffing shredded mozzarella or paneer into the dough balls before rolling them out for cheesy garlic naan.

Is yeast required for this recipe?

Nope! This recipe uses baking powder and yogurt for leavening, so it’s faster and doesn’t require rising time.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

Sour cream or plain regular yogurt will also work, though Greek yogurt provides a richer texture.

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Want More Bread Ideas to Pair with Your Favorite Meals?

If you loved this Easy Garlic Naan Bread, you’ll definitely enjoy exploring these other warm and satisfying bread recipes:

• Homemade Naan Bread if you’re looking to skip the garlic but still want that classic chewy texture.
• Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread for a cheesy, fruity twist perfect for entertaining.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes to complete a hearty and flavorful dinner.
• Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites for a buttery, comforting combo.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta if you’re after indulgent pasta to soak up every bit of sauce with naan.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toast your naan longer for extra char? Did you use cilantro or parsley?

I love seeing how everyone adds their own twist to these recipes. Questions are always welcome—let’s make cooking easier and more flavorful together!

Hungry for more ideas? You can follow me over on Pinterest @LifeWithNinaRecipes where I share daily recipe inspiration, tips, and kitchen hacks.

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