Looking for a hearty, comforting keto meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Low-Carb Indian Butter Chicken is a must-try! With tender chicken simmered in a creamy spiced tomato sauce, this dish brings authentic Indian flavors to your keto kitchen — all while keeping carbs in check.
Indian cuisine is known for its rich blend of spices, and butter chicken (Murgh Makhani) is no exception. Traditionally served with rice or naan, our version skips the carbs but keeps every bit of indulgence, thanks to grass-fed chicken, heavy cream, and ghee or butter.
Why Keto Butter Chicken Works
Many curry recipes rely on sugar or high-carb sauces. This version uses natural fats and aromatic spices for both flavor and satiety. It fits beautifully into the ketogenic lifestyle by being:
- Low in carbohydrates (6.8g net carbs per serving)
- High in protein (12.8g)
- Rich in healthy fats (14.1g)
According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, ketogenic diets can help with weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, and appetite control.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1.5 lbs grass-fed chicken breasts, cut into 3/4-inch chunks
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- In a large skillet or wok, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5–6 minutes, until soft and golden.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes, crushing them with a spoon to release their juices.
- Mix in the chicken pieces, garam masala, red chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink.
- Pour in the heavy cream and simmer uncovered for another 8–10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 456
- Total Fat: 14.1 g
- Carbohydrates: 6.8 g
- Fiber: 10.5 g
- Protein: 12.8 g
Tips & Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with keto naan or cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb Indian meal. Leftovers taste even better the next day as the spices continue to infuse!