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Keto Butter Chicken

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

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