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For those on a ketogenic diet, finding flavorful and satisfying meals that align with low-carb guidelines can be a challenge. Enter Keto-Friendly Butter Chicken, a creamy, aromatic dish that brings the rich flavors of traditional butter chicken into the keto realm. This recipe swaps out high-carb ingredients for keto-friendly alternatives, allowing you to indulge in a hearty meal without straying from your dietary goals.
Butter chicken, also known as murgh makhani, is a classic Indian dish famous for its creamy, buttery sauce and tender chicken pieces. By making a few adjustments, you can enjoy this delicious dish while adhering to a low-carb lifestyle. This version is not only keto-friendly but also packed with flavor and nutrients.
Recipe: Keto-Friendly Butter Chicken
Ingredients:
- Two pounds of skinless, boneless chicken thighs, diced into small pieces
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- One 14-ounce can of chopped tomatoes without added sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat, unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: Put the last two tablespoons of butter into the same skillet. Add the chopped onion and simmer for 3–4 minutes, or until it is tender and transparent. Add the ginger and garlic powder, and simmer for a further one to two minutes, or until aromatic.
Create the Flavour Base by adding the tomato paste and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer for five minutes after stirring to incorporate. This permits the sauce to slightly thicken and the flavours to mingle. - Add Spices and Cream: Stir in the garam masala, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, ground coriander, and chili powder. Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the heavy cream and Greek yogurt, stirring constantly to ensure the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Mix Chicken and Sauce: Add back to the skillet the browned chicken pieces and any fluids that have collected on the dish. Toss to distribute the sauce over the chicken. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to the right consistency and the chicken is soft and cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve the butter chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice or alongside a simple green salad for a complete, keto-friendly meal.
Nutrition Information Per Serving (Based on 6 Servings):
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 30g
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbs: 8g
Benefits of This Recipe
Butter Chicken is known for its rich, comforting flavor, and this keto-friendly version maintains that classic appeal while being low in carbohydrates. Chicken thighs provide a juicy, flavorful protein source, while butter and heavy cream contribute to the creamy texture of the sauce without adding unnecessary carbs. The spices used—garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, and chili powder—bring depth and complexity to the dish, ensuring it remains both satisfying and delicious.
This Keto-Friendly Butter Chicken Recipe is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, low-carb meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping for the week ahead. With its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your keto recipe collection.