Keto Butter Chicken is a flavorful, low-carb adaptation of the classic Indian dish, Butter Chicken. Traditionally, Butter Chicken is known for its rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken pieces. This keto version retains the beloved taste and texture while adhering to a ketogenic diet, making it a satisfying choice for those looking to enjoy Indian cuisine without the carbs.
Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani, originated in Northern India and is a staple in Indian cuisine. It was first created in the 1950s by the chefs at Moti Mahal, a renowned restaurant in Delhi. The dish reflects the rich culinary traditions of Indian cooking, combining a variety of spices with a creamy tomato-based sauce. It holds cultural significance as a beloved comfort food, often enjoyed during special occasions and family gatherings.
Butter Chicken is immensely popular in Indian cuisine and has gained international acclaim. Its creamy, mildly spiced sauce and tender chicken appeal to a wide audience, making it a favorite in Indian restaurants around the world. The dish’s popularity extends beyond India, as it has become a go-to for those seeking flavorful, comforting food.
Keto Butter Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken thighs or breasts: Choose boneless, skinless chicken for a tender and flavorful dish. Chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and richness, but breasts can be used for a leaner option.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or coconut milk: Use Greek yogurt for a slightly tangy flavor and creamy texture. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk works well and adds a subtle coconut taste.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Adds acidity to the marinade, helping to tenderize the chicken and enhance flavor.
- 1 tbsp ground turmeric: Provides a warm, earthy flavor and vibrant color.
- 1 tbsp ground cumin: Adds a nutty, slightly spicy note that complements the other spices.
- 1 tbsp ground coriander: Offers a citrusy, slightly sweet flavor.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a mild, sweet pepper flavor and a hint of color.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the marinade and chicken.
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp butter or ghee: Both butter and ghee provide a rich, nutty flavor. Ghee is clarified butter and is commonly used in Indian cooking for its high smoke point and deep taste.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Provides a base flavor for the sauce, creating a savory depth. Finely chopping helps it blend seamlessly into the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent, aromatic element to the dish.
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced: Provides a warm, spicy kick that pairs well with the garlic and other spices.
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) tomato paste or crushed tomatoes: Tomato paste gives a concentrated tomato flavor and thicker consistency, while crushed tomatoes offer a slightly lighter texture. Choose based on your preference for sauce thickness.
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream: Heavy cream adds richness and a creamy texture. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
- 1 tbsp garam masala: A blend of spices typical in Indian cuisine, including cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and nutmeg, adding complexity and warmth.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Complements the garam masala with its earthy flavor.
- 1 tsp ground coriander: Enhances the sauce with a fresh, citrusy flavor.
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric: Adds color and a mild, earthy flavor.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Contributes a mild, sweet pepper flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds a burst of freshness and color.
- Lemon or lime wedges: Provides a tangy, citrusy contrast to the rich sauce.
Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or coconut milk, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp ground turmeric, 1 tbsp ground cumin, 1 tbsp ground coriander, 1 tsp paprika, and 1 tsp salt. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and ensure they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 4 tbsp butter or ghee in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and add it to the hot skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned on all sides and nearly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed and sauté 1 medium finely chopped onion over medium heat until translucent and softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add 3 cloves minced garlic and 1 tbsp minced fresh ginger. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in 1 can (14 oz) tomato paste or crushed tomatoes, and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream, 1 tbsp garam masala, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp ground turmeric, and 1/2 tsp paprika. Stir well to combine and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with your choice of keto-friendly sides, such as cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
After serving your Keto Butter Chicken, enjoy the rich, creamy flavors paired with your favorite keto-friendly sides. The dish is best served hot, with a garnish of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon or lime for added brightness. This meal is perfect for any occasion, offering a satisfying and delicious low-carb option that everyone will love. Don’t forget to store any leftovers in an airtight container, as they’ll make for a great meal the next day!
Also, try: Keto Fried Chicken, Creamy Keto Tuscan Chicken, Low Carbs Chicken Curry Recipe, Keto Crockpot Crack Chicken, Keto Chicken Salad Recipe
Keto Butter Chicken is a delicious and low-carb adaptation of the classic Indian dish, Butter Chicken. This flavorful recipe features tender chicken pieces marinated in a blend of Greek yogurt or coconut milk, spices, and lemon juice, then cooked in a rich, creamy sauce made from heavy cream or coconut cream, tomatoes, and a mix of aromatic spices. The dish captures the essence of traditional Butter Chicken while fitting perfectly within a ketogenic diet, making it a satisfying option for those looking to enjoy Indian cuisine without the carbs.
With its high fat and protein content and minimal carbohydrates, Keto Butter Chicken is not only flavorful but also nutritious. The use of butter or ghee and cream provides a creamy texture and rich taste, while the spices contribute depth and warmth. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion, and it pairs well with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Enjoy the comforting, savory flavors of this keto-friendly version of a beloved classic.
Keto Butter Chicken Nutrition Info
Here’s a basic nutrition table for Keto Butter Chicken. Please note that values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient |
Per Serving (1/4 of recipe)
|
| Calories | 490 kcal |
| Total Fat | 40g |
| – Saturated Fat | 22g |
| – Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 180mg |
| Sodium | 800mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| – Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 30g |
For the most accurate nutritional information, consider using a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities you use.
Here’s a comprehensive nutritional table for each ingredient used in Keto Butter Chicken:
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Total Carbohydrates | Dietary Fiber | Sugars | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken | 1 lb (450g) | ~680 kcal | ~36g | ~10g | ~280mg | ~280mg | ~0g | ~0g | ~0g | ~72g |
| Greek Yogurt | 1/2 cup | ~70 kcal | ~2g | ~1g | ~10mg | ~50mg | ~3g | ~0g | ~3g | ~6g |
| Coconut Milk | 1/2 cup | ~200 kcal | ~20g | ~18g | ~0mg | ~10mg | ~2g | ~0g | ~2g | ~2g |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tbsp | ~8 kcal | ~0g | ~0g | ~0mg | ~0mg | ~2g | ~0g | ~2g | ~0g |
| Ground Turmeric | 1 tbsp | ~24 kcal | ~1g | ~0g | ~0mg | ~0mg | ~5g | ~1g | ~0g | ~1g |
| Ground Cumin | 1 tbsp | ~22 kcal | ~1g | ~0g | ~0mg | ~0mg | ~4g | ~1g | ~0g | ~1g |
| Ground Coriander | 1 tbsp | ~14 kcal | ~1g | ~0g | ~0mg | ~0mg | ~3g | ~1g | ~0g | ~1g |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | ~6 kcal | ~0g | ~0g | ~0mg | ~0mg | ~1g | ~0g | ~0g | ~0g |
| Salt | 1 tsp | ~0 kcal | ~0g | ~0g | ~2300mg | ~2300mg | ~0g | ~0g | ~0g | ~0g |
| Butter | 4 tbsp | ~400 kcal | ~44g | ~28g | ~220mg | ~0mg | ~0g | ~0g | ~0g | ~0g |
| Ghee | 4 tbsp | ~400 kcal | ~44g | ~28g | ~220mg | ~0mg | ~0g | ~0g | ~0g | ~0g |
| Onion | 1 medium | ~45 kcal | ~0g | ~0g | ~0mg | ~5mg | ~11g | ~2g | ~5g | ~1g |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | ~12 kcal | ~0g | ~0g | ~0mg | ~1mg | ~3g | ~0g | ~1g | ~1g |
| Fresh Ginger | 1 tbsp | ~5 kcal | ~0g | ~0g | ~0mg | ~0mg | ~1g | ~0g | ~1g | ~0g |
| Tomato Paste | 1 can (14 oz) | ~80 kcal | ~1g | ~0g | ~0mg | ~10mg | ~18g | ~1g | ~13g | ~3g |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup | ~800 kcal | ~80g | ~50g | ~300mg | ~80mg | ~7g | ~0g | ~7g | ~5g |
| Coconut Cream | 1 cup | ~450 kcal | ~48g | ~42g | ~0mg | ~40mg | ~6g | ~0g | ~6g | ~4g |
| Garam Masala | 1 tbsp | ~25 kcal | ~1g | ~0g | ~0mg | ~0mg | ~5g | ~2g | ~0g | ~1g |
This table provides a rough estimate of the nutritional content for each ingredient used in Keto Butter Chicken. The values can vary depending on the specific brands and exact quantities used.
Tips for Best Results
- Marinate Thoroughly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This helps the chicken absorb the flavors and become more tender.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and spices will enhance the flavor of the dish significantly. Avoid using pre-ground spices if possible.
- Cook on Low Heat: When simmering the sauce, keep the heat low to medium to prevent the cream or coconut milk from curdling. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Depending on your preference, you might want to add more salt, pepper, or spices.
- Use Full-Fat Dairy: If using dairy, opt for full-fat Greek yogurt and heavy cream to maintain the richness and creaminess of the dish while keeping it keto-friendly.
- Fresh Garnish: Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon or lime juice just before serving to add a burst of freshness and color.
- Serve Hot: Keto Butter Chicken is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking, to fully appreciate its creamy texture and rich flavors.
- Keto-Friendly Sides: Pair the dish with keto-friendly sides such as cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a fresh green salad for a complete low-carb meal.
- Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to prevent the sauce from separating.
- Consistent Stirring: Stir the sauce regularly while it simmers to ensure all ingredients are well-incorporated and the flavors are evenly distributed.
Keto Butter Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Cutting board For chopping the chicken and vegetables.
- Chef's knife For cutting and prepping ingredients.
- Mixing bowls For marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce ingredients.
- Large skillet or pan: For cooking the chicken and simmering the sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula For stirring and combining ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons For accurately measuring spices, cream, and other ingredients.
- Grater or garlic press: For preparing fresh garlic and ginger (optional).
- Serving spoon or ladle: For serving the finished dish.
- Plates or bowls: For serving the Keto Butter Chicken.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or coconut milk (for dairy-free option)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp ground turmeric
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
For the Sauce:
- 4 tbsp butter or ghee
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 can (14 oz/400g) tomato paste or crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for dairy-free option)
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lemon or lime wedges
Instructions
- Marinate 1 lb chicken pieces in 1/2 cup yogurt, 2 tbsp lemon juice, and spices for at least 30 minutes.
- Sauté marinated chicken in 4 tbsp butter until browned, then remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, cook 1 chopped onion, 3 cloves minced garlic, and 1 tbsp minced ginger until fragrant.
- Add 1 can tomato paste, 1 cup cream, and spices to make the sauce; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet, simmer in sauce until cooked through, then garnish with cilantro.
Notes
- Marinating Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
- Cream Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Adjust seasoning as needed to balance flavors.
- Cooking the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly and browned on all sides. Remove from the skillet to avoid overcooking while making the sauce.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a little chicken broth or water. If too thin, simmer it longer to reduce and thicken.
- Spice Adjustments: Adjust spices to your taste preference. You can make it spicier by adding more chili powder or milder by reducing the heat.
- Garnishing: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor. Optionally, add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice for extra tanginess.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a green salad to keep the meal low-carb.
Delicious Topping Ideas
- Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness and color.
- Toasted Coconut Flakes: Add a handful of toasted unsweetened coconut flakes for a subtle crunch and a hint of sweetness.
- Crushed Almonds or Cashews: Sprinkle some crushed almonds or cashews to add a nutty flavor and extra texture.
- Lemon or Lime Zest: Grate a bit of lemon or lime zest over the dish for a refreshing citrus note.
- Red Chili Flakes: For a bit of heat, sprinkle some red chili flakes on top.
- Fresh Green Onions: Add finely sliced green onions for a mild onion flavor and a bit of crunch.
- Fried Onions: Top with crispy fried onions to add a savory crunch.
- Yogurt Swirl: Add a dollop of full-fat Greek yogurt or a swirl of coconut cream for extra creaminess.
- Microgreens: Garnish with microgreens like radish sprouts or pea shoots for a touch of elegance and added nutrition.
- Chopped Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves can add a cool, refreshing flavor that complements the spices in the butter chicken.
FAQ
What is Keto Butter Chicken?
Keto Butter Chicken is a low-carb adaptation of the classic Indian Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani. This dish features tender pieces of chicken cooked in a rich and creamy sauce made with butter, heavy cream or coconut milk, and an aromatic blend of spices. The traditional Butter Chicken is modified to fit the ketogenic diet by ensuring it has minimal carbohydrates, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal option for those following a keto lifestyle.
In this version, ingredients such as Greek yogurt, heavy cream, and butter are used to create a creamy texture without adding excess carbs. The spices, including turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala, provide depth of flavor while keeping the dish within keto-friendly macros. Keto Butter Chicken maintains the essence of its traditional counterpart while offering the added benefits of being low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats and protein. This makes it a perfect choice for those seeking to enjoy delicious Indian cuisine while adhering to a keto diet.
Is Keto Butter Chicken spicy?
The spiciness of Keto Butter Chicken can vary based on personal preference and the amount of spices used. Traditionally, Butter Chicken has a mild to medium spice level, making it approachable for most palates.
However, the heat level can be easily adjusted:
- Mild: Use minimal amounts of chili powder or omit it entirely. Opt for sweeter paprika instead of hot paprika.
- Medium: Follow the recipe with the suggested amounts of spices, including chili powder and garam masala.
- Spicy: Increase the amount of chili powder, add fresh green chilies, or use a hotter variety of paprika to elevate the heat level.
Overall, Keto Butter Chicken can be customized to suit your desired spice level, ensuring that it can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their heat tolerance.
Can I use dairy-free alternatives in Keto Butter Chicken?
Yes, you can absolutely use dairy-free alternatives in Keto Butter Chicken to make it suitable for those with lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, or a preference for non-dairy ingredients while still keeping it keto-friendly. Here are some options:
- Coconut Cream: Substitute heavy cream with an equal amount of coconut cream. Coconut cream is rich and creamy, adding a slight sweetness that complements the spices in the dish.
- Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream or Greek yogurt. It will make the sauce creamy while keeping the dish low in carbs.
- Almond Milk: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use unsweetened almond milk. However, almond milk is thinner than cream, so you may need to add a thickening agent like xanthan gum to achieve the desired consistency.
- Cashew Cream: Blend soaked cashews with water to create a creamy base that can replace heavy cream. This provides a rich and neutral-flavored alternative.
- Dairy-Free Yogurt: Replace Greek yogurt with a plain, unsweetened dairy-free yogurt made from coconut, almond, or cashew milk.
Recipe Adjustments:
- Flavor Balance: When using coconut-based products, you might notice a slight coconut flavor in the dish. This generally complements the spices well, but it’s good to be aware of if you’re aiming for a more traditional taste.
- Thickness: Non-dairy alternatives may result in a thinner sauce. To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it for a longer period or add a small amount of a keto-friendly thickener like xanthan gum.
By using these dairy-free alternatives, you can enjoy the rich and flavorful experience of Keto Butter Chicken while accommodating dietary needs or preferences.
What can I serve with Keto Butter Chicken?
Keto Butter Chicken pairs well with a variety of low-carb sides that complement its rich and creamy flavor. Here are some delicious options:
- Cauliflower Rice: A popular low-carb substitute for rice, cauliflower rice absorbs the butter chicken sauce beautifully. You can make it by grating cauliflower or pulsing it in a food processor, then sautéing it in a little oil until tender.
- Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Light and nutritious, zucchini noodles provide a great base for soaking up the creamy sauce. Use a spiralizer to create zoodles and lightly sauté or steam them before serving.
- Keto Naan Bread: A low-carb version of traditional naan bread made with almond flour or coconut flour. This can be used to scoop up the delicious sauce and chicken.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Serve Keto Butter Chicken with a side of steamed or roasted low-carb vegetables like broccoli, green beans, bell peppers, or asparagus. These vegetables add a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
- Shirataki Rice or Noodles: Made from konjac yam, shirataki rice or noodles are very low in carbs and calories, making them an excellent option for a keto diet. They can be used as a rice or noodle substitute.
- Spinach or Kale Salad: A fresh green salad with spinach or kale, topped with a light vinaigrette, can add a refreshing and healthy element to your meal.
- Keto-Friendly Mashed Potatoes: Use mashed cauliflower or mashed turnips as a low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. They are creamy and delicious, pairing well with the butter chicken.
- Keto-Friendly Flatbread: Similar to naan, a keto-friendly flatbread made with ingredients like almond flour or coconut flour can be perfect for dipping and enjoying with the rich sauce.
By incorporating these keto-friendly sides, you can create a satisfying and complete meal that enhances the flavors of Keto Butter Chicken while keeping your carb intake low.
Can I make Keto Butter Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Keto Butter Chicken ahead of time, which makes it a convenient option for meal prepping or planning for busy days. Here are some tips for making it ahead:
1. Marinating the Chicken:
- Marinate the chicken in the yogurt-spice mixture up to 24 hours in advance. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes the cooking process quicker when you’re ready to prepare the dish.
2. Cooking Ahead:
- You can fully cook the Keto Butter Chicken up to 2-3 days in advance. Once cooked, allow it to cool to room temperature before storing.
3. Storing:
- Refrigeration: Store the cooked butter chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the butter chicken in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date.
4. Reheating:
- Stovetop: Reheat the butter chicken gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent the sauce from separating.
- Microwave: You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
5. Consistency Adjustment:
- When reheating, the sauce may thicken. You can add a splash of water, chicken broth, or additional cream to adjust the consistency if needed.
6. Flavor Enhancement:
- Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or spices to refresh the flavors.
7. Garnishing:
- Add fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to revive the fresh flavors.
By preparing Keto Butter Chicken ahead of time, you can enjoy a delicious and convenient meal without compromising on taste or quality. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping, family dinners, or entertaining guests.
I’m Priscilla Swahn, a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutritional sciences. With over a decade of experience in holistic nutrition, I specialize in creating delicious keto recipes to help you enjoy a healthy lifestyle. On iKetoMom, you’ll find a variety of recipes for every meal—hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, mouthwatering dinners, indulgent desserts, and refreshing drinks. My recipes make keto living easy and enjoyable for the whole family. Featured in EatingWell and MindBodyGreen, I also collaborate with health centers and corporate companies to share my expertise. Join me and discover the joy of keto cooking!