Keto Chicken Tikka Masala is a rich, flavorful dish that’s a favorite in Indian cuisine is a delicious combination of marinated chicken cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce. With a few simple swaps, you can enjoy all the aromatic spices and creamy goodness of the classic dish while staying within your carb limits.
If you aren’t familiar with Indian dishes, don’t worry! I will guide you to make this awesome keto friendly chicken tikka masala from scratch. This recipe can be made in just 20 minutes of cooking time.
Can I Eat Chicken Tikka Masala on Keto?
The traditional chicken tikka masala that I have already shared a year back contains a lot of carbs because of the ingredients and also it is served over white rice or naan bread. A No No on the keto diet!
But the recipe I am sharing today is 100% keto approved and this chicken tikka masala low carb recipe only contains 5 g of net carbs.
Can I Make This Recipe with Boneless Chicken Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts and that is what I am using in this recipe, but make sure to trim any excess fat from the thighs before using them.
But believe me if you think that using chicken breasts will dry out and get rubbery, then no, it’s not the case here, the chicken pieces will be so tender, juicy from inside and you will love it. (i have already tried this)
Variations
While the traditional Chicken Tikka Masala uses a tomato-based sauce, you can experiment with different variations to suit your dietary preferences or taste:
- Vegetarian Keto Tikka Masala: Substitute chicken with paneer (Indian cottage cheese), tofu, or cauliflower to make a vegetarian keto-friendly version. Simply follow the same marinade and sauce preparation for a delicious meatless alternative.
- Add Extra Vegetables: If you want to add more low-carb veggies, try incorporating bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini into the sauce. These vegetables add flavor and texture without adding many carbs.
- Use Almond Flour for a Thick Sauce: For an even creamier texture, you can replace the traditional flour-based thickening agent with almond flour. This adds richness without the carbs.
- Keto Chicken Tikka Masala with Coconut: For a more tropical twist, you can add shredded coconut to the sauce, which complements the flavors of the coconut milk and adds extra richness.
How To Make This Low Carb Chicken Tikka Masala in Slow Cooker?
- Take a large bowl, add all the marinade ingredients and mix well until well combined.
- Add the chicken pieces and mix or until well coated and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Heat a pan over high heat. Add the chicken with the marinade and cook for 4-5 minutes or until charred, stirring and flipping the chicken in between to sear all sides.
- Transfer them to the slow cooker (don’t put the marinade sticking to the pan, if any). Add all sauce ingredients, except the cream, stir to combine well. Secure the lid and cook on high for 2 hours.
- After its cooked, add the coconut cream and stir to combine until the sauce turns orange.
- Done! Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot over a bed of cauliflower rice.
How to Serve Keto Chicken Tikka Masala
Keto Chicken Tikka Masala can be served with a variety of keto-friendly sides:
- Cauliflower Rice: The low-carb, fluffy texture of cauliflower rice mimics traditional basmati rice and pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- Zucchini Noodles: If you’re craving a noodle dish, zucchini noodles are a great substitute for regular pasta. Lightly sauté them in olive oil before serving them alongside your chicken tikka masala.
- Salad: Serve with a simple cucumber or leafy green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for a refreshing contrast to the rich dish.
- Low-Carb Naan: You can also enjoy this dish with a keto-friendly naan made from almond flour or coconut flour. There are plenty of recipes available that provide a low-carb alternative to the traditional bread.
How to Store Keto Chicken Tikka Masala
Leftovers of Keto Chicken Tikka Masala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors tend to intensify the longer it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
For long-term storage, you can freeze the chicken tikka masala. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! To make the dish dairy-free, simply replace the yogurt in the marinade with a dairy-free alternative, like coconut yogurt, and use coconut milk in the sauce instead of cream. You’ll still get that rich and creamy texture without the dairy.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
While chicken thighs are ideal because they’re juicy and tender, you can substitute chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be careful not to overcook the breasts, as they can become dry. Slice them thinly to ensure they cook evenly.
How can I make the sauce thicker without using flour?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can add ground almonds or a few tablespoons of coconut flour to thicken the sauce while keeping it low-carb.
What spices are essential for Chicken Tikka Masala?
The essential spices for Chicken Tikka Masala include garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper. These spices create the deep, warm flavors that are characteristic of this dish.
- Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, Chicken Tikka Masala can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors develop even more after a few hours or overnight. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, and it will taste just as good.
Keto Chicken Tikka Masala (Low Carb)
Keto Chicken Tikka Masala is a rich, flavorful dish that’s a favorite in Indian cuisine is a delicious combination of marinated chicken cooked in a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients
Chicken marinade
- 1 pound chicken thighs boneless & skinless, bite-sized chunks, about 1/2 to 1 inch (or chicken breasts)
- 2 tbsp sour cream full fat (or full-fat greek yogurt)
- 1 clove of garlic crushed or minced
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp lemon juice & zest
- Salt and pepper, or to taste
Sauce
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1 tbsp butter or ghee
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 ginger finely chopped ( about 1 inch)
- 1 tsp coriander powder (or seeds)
- 1 tsp ground cardamom pods
- 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 (15 ounces) can of coconut milk, full-fat (or canned coconut cream / heavy whipping cream)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 F degrees
- In a large bowl, add all the marinade ingredients and mix well. Add the chicken pieces and coat well with all the spices and cream. Set aside and marinate for at least an hour or two.
- Transfer the marinated chicken into the baking tray or wire rack and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, heat a large skillet large over medium heat. Add ghee or butter and let it melt, add chopped ginger, onion, coriander powder, and cumin seeds.
- Saute for 4-5 minutes, add coconut milk or cream, garam masala, paprika, curry powder, cardamom, salt and pepper. Stir until all the spices are well combined.
- Add the tomato paste and stir again. Reduce the heat to low and and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens and reaches or desired consistency.
- Now add the chicken pieces and stir to combine with the sauce.
- Turn off the heat, cover and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves or mint and serve with low carb naan bread or cauliflower rice.
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Nutrition Information
Serving Size
4Amount Per Serving Calories 295Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 105mgSodium 126mgCarbohydrates 8gSugar 3gProtein 25g
Still Hungry! Try these other low carb keto chicken recipes:
- Hasselback Chicken Breast
- Low Carb General Tso Chicken
- Keto Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Low Carb Chicken Alfredo Baked Casserole
Conclusion
This Keto Chicken Tikka Masala brings the rich and aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine to your table while keeping it low-carb and keto-friendly. With the right ingredients and a few simple adjustments, you can enjoy this classic dish without the guilt. Whether you serve it with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or simply enjoy it on its own, this recipe will surely satisfy your cravings for something savory and comforting. Don’t forget to experiment with variations, add your personal touch, and enjoy every bite of this delicious, keto-friendly meal!
