Creamy Keto Butter Chicken Recipe

When we first moved to the Dominican Republic, comfort food took on a whole new meaning. Cooking for a family of six, with two hungry teenagers still at home, meant finding meals that hit all the right notes: satisfying, healthy, and adaptable to local ingredients. This keto butter chicken quickly became a go-to. It’s rich and creamy, but still light enough to keep my type 2 diabetes in check. Plus, it uses spices I can reliably find at our corner colmado and coconut cream that’s always in stock. This dish brings a little global flair to our island kitchen, and it’s one of those meals that pleases everyone around the table.

This butter chicken recipe is not just about being keto-friendly; it’s about bringing a taste of India to your table. The tender chicken is enveloped in a luscious, buttery sauce that’s made with spices and coconut cream, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and guilt-free.

Delicious Keto Butter Chicken

Keto butter chicken offers a delightful option for those seeking a meal that is both rich and low in carbs.

The dish features tender pieces of chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced sauce that captures the essence of traditional Indian cuisine.

With the fragrant blend of spices and luxurious coconut cream, every bite delivers warmth and comfort.

Ingredients That Shine

The key to this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.

Using fresh chicken breast ensures tenderness, while aromatics like onion, garlic, and ginger provide depth.

A blend of spices, including garam masala and turmeric, infuses the sauce with a vibrant character that pairs beautifully with the creamy coconut base.

Aromatic Preparation

To create this tantalizing dish, start by sautéing the aromatics in butter until they become fragrant.

I learned early on that sautéing aromatics is where the magic begins. In our Dominican kitchen, the scent of garlic and ginger sizzling in butter often draws my kids in to ask what’s for dinner. It’s a small ritual that starts the evening meal on the right note.

This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor for the chicken.

Once the chicken is added and cooked through, the spices are mixed in, enveloping the meat in a beautiful golden hue.

Since we live at sea level, I find the chicken stays juicier if I let it rest for just a minute after cooking through before adding the spices. It helps keep the texture perfect.

Bringing it All Together

After the chicken is cooked, the addition of coconut cream transforms the dish into a creamy delight.

Allow the mixture to simmer, letting the flavors meld together for a satisfying finish.

The result is a sauce that is both luscious and inviting, perfect for serving over cauliflower rice.

Sometimes, when cauliflower is pricey or hard to find here, I’ll just serve it as-is in a bowl. The sauce is hearty enough to stand alone, especially when you’re eating low-carb.

Serving Suggestions

Garnishing the dish with fresh cilantro not only enhances the presentation but adds a fresh touch that balances the richness of the butter chicken.

Pairing it with cauliflower rice keeps the meal keto-friendly, making it a great choice for those watching their carb intake.

The vibrant colors and intricate flavors create an appetizing scene, perfect for any dining occasion.

One of our favorite ways to enjoy this dish is by taking it up to our roof terrace. There’s something special about sharing a warm, spicy meal in the evening breeze with the sounds of the neighborhood around us.

Nutritional Benefits

This keto butter chicken is not only delicious but also aligns with health-conscious eating.

With only 400 calories per serving and a low carbohydrate count, it fits well into a balanced meal plan.

Rich in healthy fats and protein, this dish satisfies cravings without compromising dietary goals.

Delicious Keto Butter Chicken

Keto butter chicken is a flavorful, low-carb dish made with tender chicken pieces simmered in a creamy, spiced sauce. The combination of fragrant spices and rich coconut cream creates a taste sensation that’s both satisfying and comforting.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut cream
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning with salt. Cook until the chicken is browned and no longer pink in the center.
3. Add the Spices: Stir in the tomato paste, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
4. Add Coconut Cream: Pour in the coconut cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own for a delicious keto meal.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Pro Tips

1. For deeper flavor, let the onions caramelize slightly before adding garlic and ginger. This step adds a natural sweetness that complements the spices.
2. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed. This ensures the chicken browns properly rather than steaming.
3. Toast the spices for 30 seconds before stirring them in. This brings out their full aromatic potential.
4. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency to your liking.
5. Leftovers taste even better the next day. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. Chicken breast: Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for more juiciness and flavor.
2. Butter: Use ghee or coconut oil if dairy-free.
3. Coconut cream: Substitute with heavy cream if not dairy-sensitive or for a richer finish.
4. Tomato paste: Use canned crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, adjusting the quantity to maintain thickness.
5. Garam masala: Make your own with ground cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and black pepper if a pre-made blend is unavailable.

Tip from Grammie Shirley

If you have extra sauce left over, freeze it in an ice cube tray. You can pop out a cube or two later to flavor soups, sautéed veggies, or even scrambled eggs.

Q&A Section

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently.
2. Can I freeze keto butter chicken? Absolutely. Let it cool completely and freeze in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
3. Is coconut cream the same as coconut milk? Not quite. Coconut cream is thicker and richer than coconut milk, making it ideal for creamy sauces like this.
4. How can I make it spicier? Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to dial up the heat. You can also stir in chopped fresh chilies.
5. What can I serve instead of cauliflower rice? Try sautéed zucchini, steamed green beans, or even a fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Nutrition & Serving Info

• Estimated per serving (4 servings total): Calories: 400 kcal
• Fat: 30g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Net Carbs: 5g

This keto butter chicken has become more than just a recipe in our home—it’s a reminder that even with dietary restrictions and ingredient challenges, flavor and comfort don’t have to be compromised. Whether you’re navigating health goals like I am or simply looking for a satisfying, low-carb dinner that the whole family will enjoy, this dish delivers every time. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone to the table—and keeps them coming back for more.