Let’s be honest—who doesn’t crave a rich, creamy bowl of butter chicken after a long day? But if you’re watching your carbs or cutting back on dairy, the classic version might feel off-limits. Good news: You can still indulge without breaking your goals! In this post, you’ll learn how to make a Keto-Friendly Easy Butter Chicken Recipe using coconut milk instead of heavy cream—without sacrificing that restaurant-quality taste you love.
Whether you’re meal-prepping, starting your keto journey, or just craving something warm and comforting, this recipe ticks all the boxes: easy, healthy, and full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Indian Butter Chicken with Coconut Milk
✅ Low-Carb, High-Flavor
Unlike traditional butter chicken loaded with cream and sugar, this version is keto-compliant—you’ll get the richness without the carbs.
✅ Dairy-Free Option
Using coconut milk gives a velvety texture and mild sweetness that complements the spices beautifully. Great for lactose-intolerant foodies!
✅ Beginner-Friendly
This recipe uses pantry staples and requires minimal prep—perfect if you’re new to Indian cooking.
🍴 Expert Tip: “Butter chicken doesn’t need to be complicated. The secret is balancing spices and letting the sauce simmer slowly,” says Chef Reema Kapoor, Mumbai-based culinary coach and keto expert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 500g boneless chicken thighs or breasts, diced
- 2 tbsp ghee or butter (use ghee for strict keto)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- ½ tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt to taste
- 200ml full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step: How to Make Keto-Friendly Butter Chicken
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
In a heavy-bottom pan, heat ghee over medium heat. Add chicken and lightly brown on all sides (4–5 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Sauce Base
In the same pan, add onions. Cook until translucent. Add garlic, ginger, and all spices. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until aromatic.
Step 3: Simmer with Coconut Milk
Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute. Add coconut milk and mix well. Return chicken to the pan. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes on low heat until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
Top with fresh cilantro. Pair with cauliflower rice or low-carb naan for a full keto meal.
Top 5 Tools to Make Butter Chicken Effortlessly
| Kitchen Tool | Purpose | Recommendation | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cast Iron Skillet | Even searing & slow simmering | Lodge 10.25″ Skillet | $25–$35 |
| Garlic Press | Minces garlic in seconds | OXO Good Grips | $12–$18 |
| Spice Grinder | Fresh ground spices = better flavor | Cuisinart Electric Grinder | $35–$50 |
| Immersion Blender | For extra creamy sauce | Mueller Hand Blender | $30–$40 |
| Airtight Glass Containers | For keto meal prep storage | Prep Naturals Set | $20–$28 |
Bonus Tips for Best Results
- Marinate Overnight: If you have time, marinate the chicken with yogurt, lemon, and spices for extra flavor.
- Use Boneless Thighs: They stay juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts.
- Coconut Cream Upgrade: Swap coconut milk with coconut cream for a thicker, richer curry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How is this butter chicken keto-friendly?
It swaps sugar and dairy cream with full-fat coconut milk and ghee, both high in healthy fats and low in carbs.
2. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just sauté the aromatics first, then cook everything in a slow cooker on low for 4–5 hours.
3. Is coconut milk a good substitute for heavy cream?
Yes. It gives a creamy texture and subtle sweetness without dairy. Plus, it’s naturally low in carbs.
4. What can I serve with keto butter chicken?
Try cauliflower rice, almond flour naan, or a fresh cucumber salad.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store in airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
6. How spicy is this recipe?
It’s mild to medium. Adjust chili powder to your preference.
7. Is ghee better than butter for keto?
Yes—ghee is lactose-free and rich in good fats, making it ideal for keto diets.
Final Thoughts
Butter chicken doesn’t have to be a cheat meal. With a few smart swaps—like coconut milk and ghee—you can enjoy a delicious, keto-friendly Indian dinner that fits your health goals. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding the family, this recipe is easy, adaptable, and downright satisfying.
💬 Have you tried this version? Got your own twist on it? Share your tips or questions in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!
LSI Keyword Suggestions to Include:
- Low carb Indian recipes
- Dairy-free butter chicken
- Easy Indian keto recipes
- Gluten-free curry
- Healthy butter chicken alternative
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