Keto-Friendly Chicken Tikka Masala with Spiced Cauliflower Rice — MintyFit | MintyFit
Recipes›Keto-Friendly Chicken Tikka Masala with Spiced Cauliflower Rice
Keto-Friendly Chicken Tikka Masala with Spiced Cauliflower Rice
This Keto-Friendly Chicken Tikka Masala with Spiced Cauliflower Rice offers a flavorful, low-carb lunch option that satisfies cravings for Indian cuisine. The high-protein chicken and healthy fats from coconut cream provide sustained energy, while the cauliflower rice keeps the glycemic load low, making it ideal for a balanced keto diet.
lunch⏱ 55 min total
Instructions
1
Marinate Chicken
⏱ 0:00Chicken Tikka Masala
1.Cube the chicken breast and mix with Greek yogurt and half of the spices in a bowl.
2.Ensure all pieces are coated evenly and set aside to marinate for 20 minutes at room temperature to tenderize and infuse flavors.
💡 Marinate in the fridge if preparing ahead, but bring to room temperature before cooking for even grilling.
2
Prepare Cauliflower Rice
⏱ 0:05Spiced Cauliflower Rice
1.Remove the leaves and stem from the cauliflower head, then grate the florets using a box grater or pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice grains.
2.Set aside in a bowl for later cooking.
💡 Use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out excess moisture from the cauliflower for a fluffier texture when cooked.
3
Grill Chicken
⏱ 0:20Chicken Tikka Masala
1.Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat (about 200°C).
2.Skewer or place the marinated chicken cubes directly on the pan, cooking for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are charred and the internal temperature reaches 75°C.
💡 Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning and char marks.
4
Start Masala Sauce
⏱ 0:25Chicken Tikka Masala
1.In a large saucepan, melt ghee over medium heat (about 160°C).
2.Add chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown, then stir in minced garlic and grated ginger with the remaining spices, cooking for 2 minutes until fragrant.
💡 Stir constantly after adding spices to prevent burning and release their aroma.
5
Cook Cauliflower Rice
⏱ 0:30Spiced Cauliflower Rice
1.In a separate skillet, heat ghee over medium heat (about 160°C).
2.Add cumin seeds and turmeric, toasting for 1 minute until fragrant, then add the grated cauliflower.
3.Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but not mushy.
💡 Spread the cauliflower evenly in the pan for quicker cooking and to avoid steaming.
6
Finish Masala Sauce
⏱ 0:35Chicken Tikka Masala
1.Pour coconut cream into the saucepan with the onion and spice mixture.
2.Reduce heat to low (about 120°C) and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
💡 Use full-fat coconut cream for a richer texture; shake the can well before opening.
7
Combine Chicken with Sauce
⏱ 0:40Chicken Tikka Masala
1.Add the grilled chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
2.Simmer on low heat (about 120°C) for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, checking for a cohesive, creamy consistency.
3.Adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
💡 Taste the sauce before adding salt, as the marinade may already contribute enough flavor.
🍽️ Serve the creamy Chicken Tikka Masala in a shallow bowl with a generous portion of spiced cauliflower rice on the side, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for color.