Keto Chicken Tikka Masala
Who says comfort food can’t be keto-friendly? This Keto Chicken Tikka Masala is rich, creamy, and loaded with bold spices—all while keeping the carbs in check.
If you’ve been craving the rich, creamy flavors of Chicken Tikka Masala but want to keep it keto-friendly, you’re in for a treat.
This dish takes all the best parts of the classic Indian favorite and gives it a low-carb makeover without compromising on flavor.
The magic of this keto-friendly version lies in its smart ingredient swaps.
Instead of sugar-heavy sauces or thickeners, we rely on creamy coconut milk or heavy cream and perfectly balanced spices to create that signature taste.
Pair it with basmati rice, cauliflower rice, or enjoyed on its own. This dish is a hearty, satisfying meal that will keep you full and on track with your goals.
Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this Keto Chicken Tikka Masala is a must-try.
It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner night in.
Ready to spice things up in the kitchen? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
● 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (thighs stay juicier, but breasts work if that’s what you have!)
● 1/2 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
● 2 tbsp lemon juice
● 2 tsp ground cumin
● 2 tsp ground coriander
● 1 tsp turmeric
● 1 tsp smoked paprika
● 1 tsp garam masala
● 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
● 1 tsp salt
For the Sauce:
● 2 tbsp butter or ghee (ghee is more authentic and keto-friendly)
● 1 medium onion, finely diced
● 4 cloves garlic, minced
● 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated (you can use a teaspoon of ground ginger in a pinch)
● 1 tbsp tomato paste
● 1 1/2 cups crushed tomatoes (check for no added sugar)
● 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a dairy-free option)
● 2 tsp garam masala
● 1 tsp ground cumin
● 1/2 tsp turmeric
● 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
● Salt and pepper, to taste
● Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Directions
1. Marinate the Chicken
● In a large bowl, mix all the marinade ingredients until well combined. Add the chicken pieces, making sure each piece is coated.
● Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but longer (up to 4 hours) is better.
● (The yogurt tenderizes the chicken, so don’t skip this step!)
2. Cook the Chicken
● Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
● Add a little butter or oil and cook the chicken in batches, about 3–4 minutes per side, until browned but not fully cooked through.
● Set aside. (Don’t overcrowd the pan—give those pieces room to sear.)
3. Sauté the Aromatics
● In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or ghee over medium heat.
● Add the diced onion and sauté until golden and softened, about 5 minutes.
● Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Build the Sauce
● Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
● Add the crushed tomatoes, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and paprika.
● Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Make It Creamy
● Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream.
● Let it simmer for another 5 minutes. (If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up.)
6. Combine the Chicken and Sauce
● Return the partially cooked chicken to the skillet, along with any juices that have collected.
● Simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
7. Garnish and Serve
● Top with fresh cilantro and serve hot over basmati rice, steamed veggies, or even keto naan if you’re feeling fancy.
Tips for Keto Chicken Tikka Masala:
● Spice Control: If you’re not a fan of heat, skip the cayenne and use mild paprika. If you love heat, add a chopped chili or a splash of hot sauce.
● Prep Ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to make dinner a breeze.
● Thicker Sauce: Want the sauce thicker? Simmer it a little longer before adding the cream.
This Keto Chicken Tikka Masala delivers all the bold flavors you love without derailing your low-carb goals.
It’s a cozy dish that feels indulgent but fits right into your keto lifestyle. Perfect for meal prep or a dinner date at home!
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