Keto Chicken Tikka Masala

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala

Experience a delightful twist on the timeless favorite, and try our new Keto Chicken Tikka Masala. This recipe takes all the beloved flavors of the classic dish and gives it a low-carb makeover, perfect for those following a ketogenic lifestyle. Get ready to savor the essence of this beloved Indian-inspired dish while staying true to your keto goals.

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Preparation and cooking overview

Whipping up this mouthwatering Keto Chicken Tikka Masala couldn’t be easier! Just gather up those spices, toss ’em together with our crispy cubes of fried chicken, and let the magic happen on the stove. In a mere half an hour (not counting the marinating time), you’ll be savoring a restaurant-worthy feast right in the comfort of your very own kitchen.

Chef’s note

Remember, going keto doesn’t mean bidding farewell to tasty foods. You can enjoy this chicken tikka masala recipe to the fullest, even if you want a meatless option. Substitute the cutlets with paneer chunks — a soft cheese with low carbs and healthy fats. It absorbs the flavors and makes an excellent keto substitute. But hey, here’s a little heads up: this beauty takes less time to cook than your average chicken.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 2 Servings
Chicken and ingredients made ready for marination.

Ingredients for this keto chicken tikka masala recipe

Given the fame of Indian cuisine, it will probably come as little surprise that the recipe requires a long list of ingredients, especially spices. Here’s exactly what we need!

For the marinade

  • 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken thighs (cubed)
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
  • ¼ tablespoon turmeric powder
  • ½ tablespoon Kashmir chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • ½ lemon (freshly squeezed)
  • 3 tablespoon olive oil
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Cooking ingredients

  • 3 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons cashew nuts
  • ⅓ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1 medium tomato, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ cup water
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ginger
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
Top View of Marinated Chicken and all the spices needed to cook chicken tikka masala.

Ingredient substitutions

No worries if you want to switch things up with different ingredients or if you forgot to grab something from the store (we won’t tell anyone, pinky promise!). Feel free to get creative and use whatever you have on hand.

  • Chicken thighs: Replace with boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer white meat. Just note that they are easy to overcook.
  • Plain yogurt: Opt for full-fat Greek yogurt (with no added sugar). Its thicker consistency adds a creamy texture to the marinade and sauce.
  • Onion: If you prefer a milder flavor, use shallots. They have a similar taste but are slightly sweeter and less pungent.
  • Olive oil: Replace with avocado oil. It has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for braising.
  • Cashew nuts: Substitute with almonds or macadamia nuts. Both options offer a delicious crunch while providing healthy fats that align with a keto lifestyle.

Additional ingredients

And, hey! You can channel your creativity. Play around with the recipe by adding a few of your favorite keto-friendly ingredients.

  • Fresh cilantro: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness and vibrant color.
  • Red pepper flakes: Sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on the sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Erythritol: If desired, you can use a keto-friendly sweetener like stevia or erythritol to add sweetness to balance the flavors in the sauce. Add it sparingly, tasting as you go.
  • Diced bell peppers: Consider including diced bell peppers in the sauce for added texture and color.

Cooking tools required

To make this Keto Chicken Tikka Masala recipe, you’ll need the following tools:

  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Cast-iron pan
  • Stove
  • Tong
  • Wooden spatula

Tools substitute options

Don’t have the exact same tools in your kitchen? Well, we can easily swap them with what’s already available.

  • Cutting board: A large, sturdy plate or a clean countertop can serve as a temporary cutting surface.
  • Mixing bowl: Use an ordinary bowl or a large saucepan. It needs to have ample space for mixing ingredients.
  • Whisk: A fork can always be used to effectively combine the ingredients and incorporate air into the marinade or sauce. But it takes longer and requires more effort.
  • Cast-iron pan: Replace with a non-stick skillet, stainless steel pan, or Dutch oven. But be careful with the heat distribution in these materials.
  • Wooden spatula: Use a heat-resistant silicone spatula to stir and scrape the sauce without scratching the pan.

How to make Keto Chicken Tikka Masala: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Braising

Preparation steps

  1. Gather and measure: Gather the ingredients, and measure them with measuring cups and spoons for accurate results.
  2. Prepare the ingredients: Mince ginger and garlic cloves, chop tomatoes and onions, and dice the boneless chicken thighs into cubes.
  3. Heat the pan: preheat the cast-iron pan over high heat on the stovetop.

Cooking instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: Mix the minced garlic, grated ginger, turmeric powder, Kashmir chili powder, garam masala, yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil in a large bowl. Add the chicken cubes and stir to coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
  2. Fry the chicken: Preheat a cast iron pan over high heat. Add the marinated chicken cubes to the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, occasionally stirring, until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. Make the tikka masala sauce: In the same pan, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Drop in the butter and the chopped tomatoes along with the remaining ingredients. Then, add cashew nuts and the apple cider vinegar and cook for 1-2 minutes. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. After the cashew nuts are tender, transfer the mixture into the beaker and blend until completely smooth.
  4. Assemble: Return the mixture to the pan, add the cream and the cooked chicken pieces, and stir well to combine them. Let the chicken simmer for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
  5. Serve: Transfer the dish to a serving plate and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Chicken Curry on a Serving Bowl with some spices next to it.

Chef’s pro tip

Let’s talk spice level! If you’re not exactly sure how much heat you can handle, no worries! We’ve got you covered. Start off with a little sprinkle of Kashmiri chili powder and garam masala powder, and then give it a taste. If you’re craving more kick, go ahead and add a bit more. It’s all about finding that perfect balance that suits your taste buds.

What to serve with chicken Tikka Masala?

If you’re unsure about what to pair it with or need some inspiration, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

  • Keto flatbread: Serve your instant pot tikka masala with keto naan for a delicious low-carb meal that mimics the traditional Indian dining experience.
  • Cauliflower rice: For a low-carb alternative to traditional rice, serve it over a bed of cauliflower rice.
  • Roasted vegetables: Pair with roasted low-carb vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a complete and nutritious meal.
Ready to Eat Chicken Tikka Masala

How to make it healthier

  • Use organic fresh chicken: Always try to use fresh and organic meat.
  • Reduce the amount of salt: Use low-sodium tomato puree to reduce the amount of salt in the marinade.
  • Add more vegetables: You can add more vegetables to the recipe, such as bell peppers or spinach, to increase the dish’s nutritional profile and add more fiber.
  • Make dairy-free tikka masala: Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream. And if you are using a panner, replace it with tofu chunks. You’ll have the tastiest vegan meal right here!

Time-saving tips

  • Use pre-cut chicken: Buy pre-cut boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast cubes from your local grocery store.
  • Utilize pre-made tomato puree: Opt for pre-made tomato puree to eliminate the hassle of peeling, chopping, and blending tomatoes.
  • Multi-tasking: While the chicken is marinating, chop the onions, garlic, and ginger. This way, you can streamline your cooking process by having all the ingredients prepped and ready to go.
  • Use an immersion blender or food processor: Utilize kitchen gadgets to blend the sauce mixture until smooth.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

You don’t want to make a last-minute trip to the grocery or cut your ingredients when the pan is already heated. To prevent that, you can prepare before and enjoy cooking.

  • Chicken marinade: Prepare it for at least a few hours before frying it. This will allow the exotic spices to penetrate the meat and create a more flavorful dish.
  • Tomato puree: Blanche, the tomatoes, remove the skin, and blend them into a smooth puree. Store it in the refrigerator. When it’s time to cook, you’ll have it ready.
  • Pre-cook chicken partially: Sear the chicken cubes in a hot pan until lightly browned but not fully cooked. Refrigerate them and use them when the sauce is ready.

Storage and reheating instructions

Refrigerate any leftover chicken tikka masala in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Make sure it is cooled down to from temperature before storing.

For reheating on the stovetop, pour the tikka masala into a saucepan. And stir occasionally over medium heat until heated through.

If you use a microwave, place the leftovers in a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Keto Curry Served on a Bowl

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

Get ready to unleash your inner culinary virtuoso with this simple yet sensational Keto Chicken Tikka Masala recipe. Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, fear not! Our step-by-step instructions are designed to guide you seamlessly through the process, transforming you into a confident cook. With each chop, stir, and simmer, you’ll feel a surge of pride as you create a masterpiece that will captivate your guests and leave them craving more.

From the aromatic blend of spices to the tender, flavorful chicken enveloped in a creamy tomato sauce, every bite is a celebration of vibrant Indian-inspired flavors. With just a few tweaks, we’ve given this classic dish a keto-friendly twist, so you can indulge in its scrumptiousness while staying true to your healthy lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, this healthy chicken tikka masala recipe is gluten-free.

For the best flavor, marinating the chicken overnight for up to 24 hours is recommended. However, if you’re short on time, marinating for 15-20 minutes will still infuse some flavor into the chicken.

While bone-in chicken thighs can be used, the cooking time must be adjusted slightly to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Cook it for some extra minutes on each side.

Almonds or macadamia nuts can be suitable substitutes for cashews in this recipe, providing a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.

Substitute it with coconut cream. It adds richness and a subtle coconut flavor to the dish, providing a dairy-free alternative.

Absolutely! If you prefer it milder, reduce the quantity of garam masala or Kashmir powder. For a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of these spices or even add a dash of cayenne pepper or black pepper powder.

📖 Recipe

Ready to eat Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe.

Print

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala

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Enjoy our keto-friendly Chicken Tikka Masala, where tender chicken is infused with aromatic spices and bathed in a creamy, flavorful tomato sauce, creating a culinary masterpiece that will leave you craving more.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Keyword chicken tikka masala
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 1280kcal

Ingredients

For the marinade

  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
  • ¼ tablespoon turmeric powder
  • ½ tablespoon Kashmir chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • ½ lemon freshly squeezed
  • 3 tablespoon olive oil
  • ¼ tablespoon salt

For the chicken tikka masala

  • 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless chicken thighs, cubed)
  • 3 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoon cashew nuts
  • cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1 medium tomato chopped
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ cup water
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ginger
  • 2 garlic cloves minced

Instructions

  • Prepare the marinade: Mix the minced garlic, grated ginger, turmeric powder, Kashmir chili powder, garam masala, yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil in a large bowl. Add the chicken cubes and stir to coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
  • Fry the chicken: Preheat a cast iron pan over high heat. Add the marinated chicken cubes to the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, occasionally stirring, until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  • Make the tikka masala sauce: In the same pan, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Drop in the butter and the chopped tomatoes along with the remaining ingredients. Then, add cashew nuts and the apple cider vinegar and cook for 1-2 minutes. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. After the cashew nuts are tender, transfer the mixture into the beaker and blend until completely smooth.
  • Assemble: Return the mixture to the pan, add the cream and the cooked chicken pieces, and stir well to combine them. Let the chicken simmer for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
  • Serve: Transfer the dish to a serving plate and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 1280kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 49g | Fat: 109g | Saturated Fat: 38g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 14g | Monounsaturated Fat: 49g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 328mg | Sodium: 1876mg | Potassium: 1496mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 2081IU | Vitamin C: 32mg | Calcium: 253mg | Iron: 6mg

📖 Recipe

Ready to eat Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Recipe.

Print

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala

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Enjoy our keto-friendly Chicken Tikka Masala, where tender chicken is infused with aromatic spices and bathed in a creamy, flavorful tomato sauce, creating a culinary masterpiece that will leave you craving more.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Keyword chicken tikka masala
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 1280kcal

Ingredients

For the marinade

  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
  • ¼ tablespoon turmeric powder
  • ½ tablespoon Kashmir chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • ½ lemon freshly squeezed
  • 3 tablespoon olive oil
  • ¼ tablespoon salt

For the chicken tikka masala

  • 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless chicken thighs, cubed)
  • 3 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoon cashew nuts
  • cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1 medium tomato chopped
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ cup water
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ginger
  • 2 garlic cloves minced

Instructions

  • Prepare the marinade: Mix the minced garlic, grated ginger, turmeric powder, Kashmir chili powder, garam masala, yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil in a large bowl. Add the chicken cubes and stir to coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
  • Fry the chicken: Preheat a cast iron pan over high heat. Add the marinated chicken cubes to the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, occasionally stirring, until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  • Make the tikka masala sauce: In the same pan, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Drop in the butter and the chopped tomatoes along with the remaining ingredients. Then, add cashew nuts and the apple cider vinegar and cook for 1-2 minutes. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. After the cashew nuts are tender, transfer the mixture into the beaker and blend until completely smooth.
  • Assemble: Return the mixture to the pan, add the cream and the cooked chicken pieces, and stir well to combine them. Let the chicken simmer for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
  • Serve: Transfer the dish to a serving plate and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Video

Nutrition

Calories: 1280kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 49g | Fat: 109g | Saturated Fat: 38g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 14g | Monounsaturated Fat: 49g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 328mg | Sodium: 1876mg | Potassium: 1496mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 2081IU | Vitamin C: 32mg | Calcium: 253mg | Iron: 6mg

The post Keto Chicken Tikka Masala appeared first on Cast Iron Keto.

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