Print

Keto Butter Chicken

Keto Butter Chicken

Keto Butter Chicken is a rich, creamy, and comforting low-carb dish that combines the classic flavors of traditional butter chicken with keto-friendly ingredients. This recipe is quick to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes, and perfect for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle craving a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Fats and Dairy

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

Base and Aromatics

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon garlic and ginger paste

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Thin slices of green chili

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and optionally a splash of yogurt or lemon juice. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse bold flavors and tenderize the meat.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Sear the marinated chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside, keeping it warm.
  3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, add remaining butter and sauté the garlic and ginger paste until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste and the remaining spices, cooking for 2-3 minutes to develop a deep, rich base.
  4. Add Cream and Simmer: Pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously to combine with the spiced tomato base. Allow the sauce to gently simmer and thicken, creating a silky, luscious texture.
  5. Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken to the sauce and coat each piece thoroughly. Simmer together for an additional 5 minutes to marry the flavors perfectly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or thin slices of green chili on top just before serving to add fresh herbal notes and a vibrant contrast.

Notes

  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for extra moisture and rich flavor if preferred.
  • Don’t rush cooking the spices with butter and tomato paste to ensure full aroma and depth.
  • For a lighter sauce, substitute part of the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk.
  • Season gradually with salt as butter and cream contribute natural saltiness.
  • Add fresh herbs like cilantro only just before serving to preserve their bright flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: keto butter chicken, low carb butter chicken, creamy butter chicken, keto dinner, Indian keto recipe