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Creamy Keto Butter Chicken Recipe Easy Tender Juicy Chicken

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A rich and creamy keto-friendly butter chicken recipe featuring tender, juicy chicken thighs simmered in a buttery, spiced sauce with heavy cream and cream cheese for a silky texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 cup (240ml) full-fat heavy cream
  • 2 ounces (60g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste (no added sugar)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken pieces with half the garlic, half the ginger, 1 teaspoon garam masala, salt, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Let sit for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large heavy-bottom skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes, stirring often.
  3. Add remaining garlic and ginger; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle in cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, chili powder, and remaining garam masala. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to toast spices without burning.
  5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes until it darkens slightly and caramelizes.
  6. Push sauce to the side, add remaining butter. Once melted, add marinated chicken in a single layer. Sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook another 3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked.
  7. Reduce heat to low; stir in heavy cream and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is tender and cooked through.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add cayenne pepper if desired. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for juicier meat. Avoid high heat when adding cream cheese to prevent curdling. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth. For dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream and cream cheese with coconut cream and coconut yogurt, and butter with coconut oil. Marinate chicken well to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Nutrition

Keywords: keto butter chicken, low carb butter chicken, creamy butter chicken, keto dinner, Indian keto recipe, butter chicken recipe, keto chicken

Find it online: https://blixfood.com/creamy-keto-butter-chicken-recipe-easy-tender-juicy-chicken/