Bring an authentic Indian culinary experience to your home with our Keto Instant Pot Butter Chicken recipe. This dish is a perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors that are bound to make your taste buds dance. If you’re on a keto diet, you’ll be thrilled to know that this recipe is low in carbs yet rich in flavor, making it an excellent choice for all occasions.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger paste
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Equipments
- Instant Pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen knife
- Cutting board
How to Make Keto Instant Pot Butter Chicken – Step By Step
Step 1: Saute the Aromatics
Set your Instant Pot to the ‘Saute’ setting and let it heat up. Add unsalted butter. Once melted, throw in the chopped onion. Sauté until the onions become translucent, adding the minced garlic and ginger paste. Stir constantly to prevent sticking and burning. The aroma should already be building, preparing your senses for a flavorful journey.
Step 2: Add the Spices
Now, add your spices: garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir the mixture until the spices coat the onions evenly. This blend of spices is what will give your Keto Butter Chicken its iconic flavor, so it’s crucial to sauté them well during this step.
Step 3: Incorporate the Chicken
Introduce the bite-sized chicken thighs to the pot. Stir to ensure each piece is coated with the aromatic mix you’ve just created. Let the chicken cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to brown slightly. Remember, a good sear adds to the depth of flavor.
Step 4: Add Tomato Paste and Cream
Once the chicken is well coated with spices and slightly browned, it’s time to add the tomato paste. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the paste evenly coats the chicken. Then, pour in the heavy cream. This step mellows the heat slightly and creates a rich, velvety texture, transforming your dish.
Step 5: Pressure Cook the Dish
After mixing everything well, secure the lid on your Instant Pot. Set it to ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 7 minutes. This is where the magic happens as all flavors meld together, creating a harmonious keto-friendly curry.
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Once the timer goes off, perform a quick release of the pressure. Gently stir the contents, tasting to adjust seasoning as needed. Add more salt and pepper if necessary. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon for added zest before serving.
How to Serve Keto Instant Pot Butter Chicken
Serve this delightful butter chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice to keep it keto-friendly. Alternatively, a side of sautéed greens or a fresh salad complements the dish nicely, absorbing the creamy sauce and balancing the rich flavors.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
When making any curry, the secret lies in the spices. Freshly ground spices can elevate the taste of your butter chicken. Also, don’t rush the sautéeing process—it’s crucial for developing flavor. If you’re new to Instant Pot cooking, always make sure you’ve properly sealed the lid before pressure cooking. Lastly, taste and adjust seasoning only at the end to ensure balance.
High Protein Twist on Keto Butter Chicken
For a high-protein variation, consider incorporating additional sources of protein. You could add firm tofu or paneer alongside chicken. These ingredients not only up the protein content but also blend seamlessly to enhance the dish’s texture and taste, making your meal both satisfying and nutritious.
If you’re targeting a more intense protein punch, stir in some cooked chickpeas before final cooking, but keep in mind this ups the carb count a little. Despite this, it allows you to explore different textures and flavors, enriching your keto experience.
Making It Extra Low-Carb: Dean’s Spin
For those deeply committed to a low-carb journey, minimizing carbs in this recipe is simple. Swap out traditional tomato paste with roasted red pepper puree, which is naturally lower in carbs. It’s a subtle change but delivers a new layer of sweetness and smokiness that pairs beautifully with keto butter chicken.
Replace regular heavy cream with a non-dairy cream like coconut cream, further reducing carb content without compromising on creaminess. This twist not only adheres to strict low-carb diets but also proves friendly for dairy-sensitive eaters.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, butter chicken freezes beautifully for up to three months. Simply thaw it in the fridge overnight for a quick, sumptuous dinner ready to reheat.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, chicken breast can be used. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as it cooks faster than thighs.
- Is it possible to make this without an Instant Pot? Absolutely, you can follow the same steps using a stovetop. It might take a bit longer, but it works just as well.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add extra chili powder or freshly chopped green chilies to the sauce for a spicier kick.
- Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, substitute dairy products with coconut cream or other plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Crafting Authentic Experiences with Keto Butter Chicken
This keto-friendly butter chicken is a game-changer, making an indulgent meal for those watching their carb intake. Don’t keep this hidden; share the recipe with friends, and invite them into the delightful world of flavorful home-cooked Indian cuisine. Have you tried any creative twists on your butter chicken? Let us know in the comments!