This Keto Butter Chicken is a rich and comforting low-carb version of the classic Indian dish. Tender chicken is cooked in a buttery, creamy tomato sauce that delivers bold flavor without added sugar or excess carbs. It’s satisfying, filling, and ideal for keto or low-carb lifestyles.
The recipe comes together quickly using simple spices, garlic, onion, butter, and cream. The sauce is smooth and mildly spiced, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Serve it with cauliflower rice or other low-carb sides for a complete meal.
Equipment
- Large skillet or pan
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 3/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken with turmeric, chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper, tossing until evenly coated.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the onion and garlic and cook until soft and fragrant.
- Add the seasoned chicken and cook until mostly cooked through, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the tomato paste, then slowly add the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors blend.
- Uncover and simmer longer if a thicker sauce is preferred, then adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.
Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: Indian
- Course: Main Dish
How to store
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed.
What not to do
- Do not cook the sauce on high heat after adding cream.
- Do not skip sautéing the onion and garlic.
- Do not overcook the chicken.
Tips & Variations
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness.
- Add more chili powder or cayenne for extra heat.
- Replace butter with ghee for deeper flavor.
- Simmer uncovered longer for a thicker sauce.
Approximate Nutrition
- Calories: ~385
- Fat: ~27 g
- Protein: ~27 g
- Total Carbohydrates: ~6 g
- Net Carbs: ~5 g
- Fiber: ~0.5 g
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken with turmeric, chili powder, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper, tossing until evenly coated.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the onion and garlic and cook until soft and fragrant.
- Add the seasoned chicken and cook until mostly cooked through, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the tomato paste, then slowly add the heavy cream, mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors blend.
- Uncover and simmer longer if a thicker sauce is preferred, then adjust seasoning if needed and serve warm.
Notes
- Fat: ~27 g
- Protein: ~27 g
- Total Carbohydrates: ~6 g
- Net Carbs: ~5 g
- Fiber: ~0.5 g
Conclusion
This Keto Butter Chicken delivers comforting, restaurant-style flavor while keeping carbs low. It’s a nourishing, satisfying meal made with simple ingredients that fits perfectly into a keto or low-carb lifestyle.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs stay juicy and work very well in this recipe. - Is this dish spicy?
It is mildly spiced and easy to adjust to your taste. - Can this be meal-prepped?
Yes, it stores and reheats well. - What can I serve with it on keto?
Cauliflower rice or low-carb flatbread pairs best.
