Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe Perfect For Family Gatherings!

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This image shows Keto Chicken Tikka Masala garnished with cilantro

Main Course

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala is my new favorite go-to recipe for satisfying my craving for rich, comforting flavors without the carbs. This dish takes the bold, aromatic spices of traditional chicken tikka masala and reimagines it with a low-carb twist, making it perfect for anyone following a keto lifestyle.

The secret to this recipe’s success is in the delicate balance of spices. From the warm heat of garam masala to the tang of ginger and garlic, every spoonful is full of depth and complexity. The addition of coconut milk instead of cream keeps it light but rich, and the cilantro garnish adds a refreshing burst of color and flavor.

This recipe is quickly becoming a favorite for many keto enthusiasts because it’s comforting, easy to make, and loaded with healthy fats while being free from refined sugars and grains. The smoky chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy, flavorful tomato-based sauce—each bite is a burst of indulgence.

The perfect low-carb comfort food awaits!

What I Didn’t Expect About This Recipe?

  • I love how flavorful it is: The spices and coconut milk create a rich, creamy sauce that makes every bite a treat.
  • It fits seamlessly into my keto lifestyle: I can enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal without the carb overload.
  • I’ve made it my own: Over time, I’ve swapped some spices to suit my taste—feel free to experiment with yours!
  • It’s a crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for friends or family, this dish is always a hit.
  • It’s easy to prepare: It takes minimal effort to create a satisfying meal that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours.
This image shows Keto Chicken Tikka Masala garnished with cilantro

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe

Marinate diced chicken with ingredients for 15 minutes or overnight. Cook chicken in butter for 3 minutes per side. Sauté onions, garlic, ginger, and spices. Add the passata and tomato puree; simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in cream, sweetener, and cooked chicken. Cook until done.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marinating Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people
Calories 385 kcal

Equipment

  • Non-stick frying pan
  • Large bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons

Ingredients
  

Sauce

  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • ¾ tsp golden erythritol optional
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • water to thin
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • 1 small yellow onion diced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp tomato puree
  • cups passata sauce
  • 1 tsp each garam masala, cumin, ground coriander
  • ½ tsp each turmeric, paprika, chili powder
  • 2 garlic cloves minced

Chicken

  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • ½ cup plain yogurt
  • 5 skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp garam masala
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp each cumin, paprika
  • 3 garlic cloves minced

Instructions
 

  • Combine diced chicken with marinade ingredients and mix.
    This image shows diced chicken being mixed with marinade ingredients
  • Marinate for at least 15 minutes or overnight in the fridge.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of butter/oil in a large frying pan.
    This image shows butter or oil heating in a frying pan
  • Fry chicken for 3 minutes per side, about 8 minutes total.
    This image shows chicken frying for 3 minutes per side
  • Remove chicken from the pan.
    This image shows removing the chicken-from-the-pan on a plate
  • Add 1 tablespoon butter to the pan and sauté onions for 3 minutes until golden.
    This image shows onions sautéing until golden
  • Stir in garlic, ginger, and spices; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
    This image shows garlic, ginger, and spices being stirred together
  • Add passata and tomato puree.
    This image shows passata and tomato puree being added to the pan
  • Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
    This image shows a pan of sauce simmering gently over medium heat, with small bubbles forming as the mixture thickens to a rich and velvety consistency over 10 minutes.
  • Stir in cream and optional sweetener.
    This image shows the sauce simmering for 10 minutes until thickened
  • Add chicken back into the pan and cook for 5 minutes until fully cooked and warm.
    This image shows chicken simmering in the creamy sauce

Notes

  • Adjust the sweetness with a low-carb sweetener to taste.
  • Use full-fat cream for a rich and creamy sauce.
NutritionValue
Calories385g
Carbohydrates9g
Fibre2.1g
Fat24g
Protein32.3g

Variations That Will Help You Customize Your Dish!

  1. Add Some Protein: Stir in cooked bacon, ground beef, or grilled chicken to turn this creamy mac and cheese into a hearty main dish.
  2. Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce, chopped jalapeños, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a zesty heat. Pepper jack cheese can also bring both creaminess and spice.
  3. Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted cauliflower for a healthy and colorful twist on your mac and cheese.
  4. Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or smoked cheddar cheese to infuse your dish with a rich, smoky depth.
  5. Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or chives can elevate your mac and cheese with aromatic, savory notes. Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.

Tags:

chicken / healthy recipes / keto / tikka

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