Succulent Keto Butter Chicken Curry Recipe

By Sithya Phon, the founder of keto.com.au

Indulge your taste buds in the aromatic and delectable world of Indian cuisine with a keto twist! In this blog post, we'll dive into the rich history of butter chicken curry, explore its traditional roots, uncover the essential ingredients, provide a detailed macronutrient breakdown, and guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this mouthwatering keto-friendly dish. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that satisfies your cravings and health goals.

History of Butter Chicken Curry

Butter chicken, also known as "Murgh Makhani," is a classic Indian dish that traces its roots back to the vibrant streets of Delhi, India. This mouthwatering creation is believed to have originated in the 1950s when a brilliant chef decided to transform leftover tandoori chicken into a rich and flavourful curry. What started as a culinary improvisation soon became a sensation, captivating the palates of locals and travellers alike.

Traditionally, butter chicken curry was prepared by marinating grilled or roasted chicken in a velvety tomato-based sauce enriched with butter and cream. However, to adapt this beloved dish into a keto-friendly meal, we have made a few modifications while ensuring it retains its authentic flavours and textures. Focusing on low-carb ingredients and healthy fats has transformed the classic butter chicken curry into a keto-friendly delight.

To make our keto butter chicken curry, we use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, which are high in protein and healthy fats. The marinade consists of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and a blend of spices, infusing the chicken with aromatic flavours and tenderising it. This marinade adds depth to the dish and helps achieve a moist and succulent texture.

Instead of traditional butter, we opt for ghee or butter made from grass-fed cows, which offers a rich and nutty flavour while providing essential healthy fats. The sauce is created using a combination of finely chopped onions, garlic, and ginger, which are gently sautéed to release their delightful aromas. We incorporate a medley of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and chilli powder, infusing the sauce with layers of warmth and complexity.

To create a keto-friendly tomato base, we use tomato puree instead of whole tomatoes to reduce carbohydrate content. This step ensures that our butter chicken curry remains low in carbs while delivering the characteristic tangy and robust tomato flavour. To achieve the creamy texture without the use of heavy cream, we replace it with a measured amount of low-carb, high-fat alternatives like coconut cream or a combination of heavy cream and almond flour, which acts as a thickening agent.

We've crafted a delectable butter chicken curry that aligns with a low-carb, high-fat diet by incorporating these keto modifications. It allows you to savour the authentic flavours of the dish while supporting your ketogenic goals. So, whether you're a fan of Indian cuisine or simply seeking a delicious and satisfying keto meal, our keto butter chicken curry will surely delight your taste buds while keeping you on track with your health and wellness journey.

Ingredients

To prepare your own keto butter chicken curry, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 500 grams of boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon chilli powder

• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

• Salt to taste

For the Curry Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons ghee or butter

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated

• 1 teaspoon cumin powder

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1/2 teaspoon chilli powder (adjust to your spice preference)

• 1 cup tomato puree

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons almond flour (optional for thickening)

• Salt to taste

• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish.

Macronutrient Breakdown

Now, let's take a closer look at the macronutrient breakdown of this keto-butter chicken curry:

Based on our macronutrient information provided for the ingredients, here is a summary of the approximate macronutrient breakdown for the keto butter chicken curry recipe per serving.

• Carbohydrates: Approximately 11 grams

• Protein: Approximately 30 grams

• Fats: Approximately 31 grams

• Calories: Approximately 423 calories

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients. It's always a good idea to double-check the nutritional information of your ingredients and adjust the calculations accordingly. When you are shopping, check the carbohydrate content of each element carefully. 

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients and mix well. Add the chicken thighs and ensure they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavours to infuse.

2. Preheat your oven to 200°C. Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for approximately 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, melt the ghee or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

4. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for another minute, releasing the aromas.

5. Sprinkle in the cumin powder, coriander powder, paprika, turmeric powder, and chilli powder. Stir well to combine the spices with the onions, garlic, and ginger.

6. Pour in the tomato puree and simmer the sauce for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

7. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. If desired, add almond flour to thicken the sauce more.

8. Cut the baked chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add them to the skillet, coating them evenly with the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavours meld together.

9. You can season with salt according to your taste preferences.

10. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.

Too easy! This recipe can be easily adapted to your taste preferences; add more spice if you prefer a hotter butter chicken! 

Alternative Sides

While butter chicken curry is incredibly flavourful on its own, you can enhance your keto dining experience with these delicious side options:

• Cauliflower Rice: Swap traditional rice with Cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that pairs perfectly with the creamy curry. Cauliflower rice can be purchased at any supermarket ready to heat and eat if you do not have the time to make your own (this trick is my preferred method as I find cutting and preparing the cauliflower rice messy and time-consuming!)

• Keto Naan Bread: Indulge in the soft and fluffy texture of keto-friendly naan bread made with almond or coconut flour. It's an excellent accompaniment for savouring every last bit of the curry sauce (see the recipe below!)

Keto Health Benefits

Let's explore the health benefits of the key ingredients in this keto-butter chicken curry:

• Chicken Thighs: Rich in protein and healthy fats, chicken thighs provide essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth. They also provide selenium and B vitamins, supporting cellular health.

• Ghee or Butter: These healthy fats provide energy and help keep you satiated. Ghee, in particular, is rich in butyric acid, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

• Onions, Garlic, and Ginger: These aromatic ingredients burst with flavours and offer potential health benefits. They contain compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may support immune health.

• Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Turmeric, Paprika, Chili Powder): Spices not only add depth and complexity to the curry but also offer a wide range of potential health benefits. Turmeric, for instance, contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound.

Indulging in this keto butter chicken curry means savouring the flavours of Indian cuisine while nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.

Keto Butter Chicken Curry is a delightful fusion of tradition and healthy eating. With its tantalising aroma, creamy texture, and nourishing ingredients, this dish indulges your taste buds while staying true to your keto lifestyle. So, prepare to embark on a flavour-packed journey and enjoy the best of both worlds. Happy cooking and bon appétit!

Bonus Recipe! Introducing Keto Naan Bread: A Low-Carb Delight!

Are you following a ketogenic diet and missing the joy of enjoying fluffy and delicious naan bread with your favourite curries? Look no further! We have a fantastic recipe for keto naan bread that will satisfy your cravings without derailing your low-carb lifestyle. Made with wholesome ingredients and packed with flavour, this keto naan bread is a game-changer for anyone seeking a healthier alternative to traditional naan. Get ready to indulge in this low-carb delight that pairs perfectly with your favourite keto-friendly curries and dips. Let's dive into the recipe and discover how simple and rewarding it is to create your very own keto naan bread at home!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond flour

• 3 tablespoons ground psyllium husk powder

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons melted butter or ghee

• 1/2 cup warm water

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, psyllium husk powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the ingredients.

2. Add the melted butter or ghee to the dry mixture and mix until it resembles a crumbly texture.

3. Gradually pour in the warm water while mixing the dough. Continue mixing until a soft and pliable dough forms.

4. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and shape each piece into a ball.

5. Place a ball of dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it out into a thin, round naan shape. Repeat with the remaining dough portions.

6. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, carefully transfer one naan to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown spots appear.

7. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining naan.

8. Serve the keto naan bread warm with your favourite keto curries or dips.

Optional: You can add flavours to the naan bread by sprinkling some garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like cilantro or oregano before cooking.

Enjoy your homemade keto naan bread!

If you liked this recipe, check out our recipes for Keto Coconut Chicken Curry & Crispy Chicken Parmesan Recipe.