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Are you ready to whip up a tasty meal that fits your keto diet? This Five Ingredient Keto Butter Chicken recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor. With just five easy-to-find ingredients, you can enjoy a creamy, savory dish the whole family will love. Follow my step-by-step guide to make this quick meal a staple in your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, taking only 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and butter creates a luscious sauce that is incredibly satisfying.
- Flavorful Spices: The garam masala adds an aromatic and warm flavor profile, making every bite delicious.
- Keto-Friendly: This dish is low in carbs, making it an excellent option for those following a ketogenic diet.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Five Ingredient Keto Butter Chicken
To make Five Ingredient Keto Butter Chicken, you need just five simple items. Here’s the list:
– 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons garam masala
– Salt to taste
These ingredients work together to create a rich and creamy dish. The chicken thighs add flavor and tenderness. Heavy cream gives a smooth texture. Unsalted butter enhances the richness, while garam masala brings warmth and spice. Salt balances all the flavors.
Weight and Measurement Units
It’s important to measure your ingredients correctly for the best results. Here are the units used in this recipe:
– Chicken: 1 pound (450 grams), cut into pieces
– Heavy cream: 1 cup
– Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup
– Garam masala: 2 tablespoons
– Salt: to taste
Using the right measurements helps ensure the dish cooks well and tastes great. If you don’t have a scale, use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
Tips for Selecting Quality Ingredients
Choosing fresh, high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. Here are some tips:
– Chicken thighs: Look for organic or free-range options. They are often more flavorful and tender.
– Heavy cream: Choose a brand with no additives. It should be thick and rich to enhance the sauce.
– Unsalted butter: Fresh butter has a nice taste. It’s best for cooking as you can control the salt.
– Garam masala: Smell it to check freshness. It should have a strong, spicy aroma.
– Salt: Use sea salt or kosher salt for better flavor. Avoid table salt if possible.
By selecting quality ingredients, you create a dish that feels special. The flavors will shine, making your meal truly enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed Cooking Instructions
1. Start by melting 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Watch for bubbles.
2. Once the butter is hot, add 1 lb of boneless chicken thighs, cut into small pieces. Sauté them for 6-7 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked and lightly browned.
3. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of garam masala over the chicken. Stir well to coat each piece. This step helps the spices release their flavor. Cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Lower the heat and add 1 cup of heavy cream to the skillet. Stir constantly until everything blends and turns creamy.
5. Season with salt to taste. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken the sauce. Enjoy the rich aroma!
Cooking Times for Each Step
– Butter melting: 1-2 minutes
– Sautéing chicken: 6-7 minutes
– Spice blooming: 2 minutes
– Cream blending and simmering: 3-4 minutes
Visual Guide for Cooking Process
– Step 1: Butter should bubble in the skillet.
– Step 2: Chicken should be golden-brown and cooked through.
– Step 3: The chicken will be coated in a fragrant spice mix.
– Step 4: Mixture will appear thick and creamy.
– Step 5: The sauce should be rich and flavorful, ready to serve.
Follow these steps, and you will have a delicious keto butter chicken in no time!
Tips & Tricks
Expert Tips for Perfect Butter Chicken
To make the best butter chicken, focus on a few key points. First, always use boneless chicken thighs. They stay juicy and tender during cooking. Next, don’t skip the garam masala. This spice blend gives your dish a rich flavor. When you add the heavy cream, stir constantly. This helps create a smooth, creamy sauce. Lastly, let the dish simmer for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people make a few common mistakes. One mistake is rushing the cooking time. Chicken needs enough time to brown and cook through. Another mistake is not seasoning enough. Always taste your dish and adjust the salt as needed. Lastly, avoid high heat when adding cream. High heat can cause the cream to separate. Keep it low and slow for the best results.
Suggested Cooking Tools and Utensils
You will need a few simple tools for this recipe. A large skillet works best for cooking the chicken evenly. A wooden spoon helps you stir the ingredients without scratching the pan. Measuring cups and spoons ensure you get the right amounts. Lastly, having a sharp knife makes cutting the chicken easy and safe. With these tools, you can make your butter chicken like a pro!
Pro Tips
- Butter Quality: Use high-quality unsalted butter for a richer flavor and creamier sauce.
- Spice Freshness: Ensure your garam masala is fresh for optimal flavor; consider toasting whole spices before grinding.
- Chicken Marinade: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in yogurt and spices for a few hours before cooking.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with keto-friendly sides like cauliflower rice or zoodles for a complete meal.

Variations
Alternative Ingredients for Flavor
You can switch things up to make this dish your own. Try adding:
– Coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter taste.
– Cilantro or mint for a fresh touch.
– Lemon juice for a zesty kick.
These options can change the flavor profile while keeping the dish keto-friendly.
Substitutions for Different Diets (Dairy-Free, Spice Level)
If you want a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and butter. This keeps the dish rich and creamy without dairy. Adjust spice levels by using less garam masala for a milder taste. You can also add fresh jalapeños for heat.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
I love serving this dish over cauliflower rice. It soaks up the sauce and adds texture. You can also pair it with zucchini noodles for a fun twist. Garnishing with chopped cilantro and a pat of butter adds beauty and richness. Enjoy it with a side salad for a complete meal.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your butter chicken fresh, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This helps keep the chicken tender and tasty.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, take them out of the fridge. Heat the butter chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Stir it gently to warm it through. You can also use a microwave. Heat it in short bursts, stirring often. This prevents hot spots and keeps the cream smooth.
Freezing Tips for Long-Term Storage
If you want to save the butter chicken for later, freezing is a good option. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Label it with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat it as mentioned above. This way, you can savor this dish anytime!
FAQs
What is the nutritional value of Five Ingredient Keto Butter Chicken?
Five Ingredient Keto Butter Chicken is both tasty and low in carbs. One serving has about 400 calories. It has 30 grams of fat and 25 grams of protein. The dish is very low in carbs, with only 5 grams per serving. This makes it a great option for those on a keto diet. The heavy cream adds creaminess and richness. The butter enhances flavor and keeps the dish satisfying.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs. Chicken breast is leaner and lower in fat. However, it may not be as juicy as thighs. If you choose breasts, cook them carefully to avoid dryness. Adjust the cooking time as needed. Breasts may take a few more minutes to cook through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To make the dish spicier, add chili powder or cayenne pepper. You can also toss in fresh chopped chili peppers. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. If you want a more complex flavor, add extra garam masala. This spice blend has warm flavors that enhance the dish. Always taste as you go to find the right heat level for you.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it for later. Just cool the butter chicken completely before storing. Use airtight containers to keep it fresh. It lasts about three to four days in the fridge. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just remember to thaw it before reheating. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
In this post, we explored making Five Ingredient Keto Butter Chicken. We looked at key ingredients and how to choose the best ones. I detailed simple cooking steps and shared helpful tips to ensure success. You learned about variations, storage, and answers to common questions. Remember, cooking should be fun! Enjoy the flavors, and don’t be afraid to experiment. With this easy recipe, you can impress anyone at your table. Dive into your kitchen and make this dish toda
Keto Butter Chicken Delight
A creamy and flavorful butter chicken dish perfect for a keto diet.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- to taste salt
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until it starts to bubble.
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and sauté for about 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and starts to brown slightly.
Sprinkle the garam masala over the chicken, stirring well to coat all pieces evenly. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
Season with salt to taste, letting it simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
Serve over cauliflower rice and garnish with cilantro and butter.
Keyword butter chicken, keto, low carb
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