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lunchketoBritish-Indian

Keto-Friendly Chicken Tikka Masala with Spiced Cauliflower Rice

A keto-friendly twist on the classic British-Indian Chicken Tikka Masala paired with low-carb spiced cauliflower rice. This meal is high in protein and healthy fats while keeping carbohydrates minimal through the use of coconut cream and cauliflower as substitutes for traditional ingredients.

Keto-Friendly Chicken Tikka Masala with Spiced Cauliflower Rice

Instructions

1
Marinate Chicken
marinating

Cube the chicken breast and mix with Greek yogurt and half of the spices in a bowl. 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
prepping

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. 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
grilling

Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat (about 200°C). 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
sautéing

In a large saucepan, melt ghee over medium heat (about 160°C). 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
sautéing

In a separate skillet, heat ghee over medium heat (about 160°C). Add cumin seeds and turmeric, toasting for 1 minute until fragrant, then add the grated cauliflower. 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
simmering

Pour coconut cream into the saucepan with the onion and spice mixture. 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
simmering

Add the grilled chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly. Simmer on low heat (about 120°C) for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, checking for a cohesive, creamy consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt as needed.

💡 Taste the sauce before adding salt, as the marinade may already contribute enough flavor.
Prep Time
30 Min
Cook Time
25 Min
Per Serving
312kcal
Protein36%
Carbs13%
Fat51%
Glycemic Load
4.9 (Low)
Nutrition Information
PreparedRaw ingredients
Energy312 kcal· 16%
Protein24.5 g· 49%
Carbohydrates8.5 g· 3%
Carbs (absorbed)7 g· 3%
Dietary Fiber1.5 g· 6%
Fat15.5 g· 22%
Saturated Fat9 g· 45%
Monounsaturated Fat4.5 g· 18%
Polyunsaturated Fat1 g· 9%
Trans Fat0.50 g· 25%
Cholesterol71 mg· 24%
Sodium295 mg· 15%
Potassium420 mg· 12%
Calcium70 mg· 7%
Magnesium23 mg· 6%
Phosphorus211 mg· 30%
Iron2.0 mg· 15%
Zinc3.5 mg· 35%
Copper0.10 mg· 10%
Selenium17 µg· 31%
Iodine2 µg· 1%
Vitamin C10.5 mg· 13%
Vitamin A460 µg· 57%
Vitamin D0.30 µg· 2%
Vitamin E1.1 mg· 9%
Vitamin K46 µg· 61%
Vitamin B10.45 mg· 41%
Vitamin B20.47 mg· 34%
Vitamin B60.45 mg· 32%
Vitamin B120.60 µg· 24%
Folate36 µg· 18%
Niacin4.6 mg· 29%
Biotin4.5 µg· 9%
Pantothenic Acid0.95 mg· 16%
Salt Equivalent0.75 g· 13%

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