Keto Butter Chicken
This Keto Butter Chicken recipe offers a rich, creamy, and flavorful low-carb meal perfect for keto enthusiasts and anyone seeking a satisfying dinner. Featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a luscious butter and spice curry sauce, it delivers authentic Indian flavors without the carbs. With quick preparation and versatile variations, it’s ideal for weeknights or impressing guests while staying keto-friendly.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Gluten Free, Keto
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes & Variations
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra melted butter (for drizzling)
- Toasted almond slivers (for garnish)
- Cayenne powder or chopped green chilies (for spice adjustment)
- Coconut cream (substitute for heavy cream for dairy-free option)
- Cauliflower florets or paneer cubes (for vegetarian version)
- Spinach or bell peppers (optional added veggies)
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs lightly with salt and black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken thighs until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep juicy and tender.
- Sauté Aromatics and Spices: Add remaining butter to the same skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and paprika, letting the spices bloom and release their aroma for about 1 minute.
- Make the Sauce: Mix in the tomato paste and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly to combine into a silky smooth sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, coating them thoroughly with the creamy sauce. Cover and simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens to a perfect consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top before serving to add freshness and color. Serve immediately with keto-friendly sides such as cauliflower rice, sautéed green beans, or mashed cauliflower.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for better moisture and flavor absorption compared to breasts.
- Don’t skip browning the chicken; it adds depth and caramelized flavor to the dish.
- Adjust the amount of cream to control the sauce’s richness and thickness.
- Use fresh, high-quality spices for the most vibrant and authentic taste.
- Simmer gently on low heat to avoid curdling the cream and maintain a smooth texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
Keywords: keto butter chicken, low carb butter chicken, keto dinner, Indian butter chicken, creamy chicken curry, keto recipe