🍗Healthy Butter Chicken 🥗

Healthy Butter Chicken

February 15, 2025

Healthy Butter Chicken (Ready in 30 Minutes!) | Lightened-Up Comfort Food!

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Craving the creamy, aromatic magic of butter chicken but want a healthier twist? This recipe delivers all the flavor with none of the guilt! Tender chicken simmers in a rich, spiced tomato sauce made lighter with Greek yogurt (or coconut milk!), perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or cozy dinners. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Under 300 calories per serving – indulge guilt-free!
Packed with protein – 28g per serving to keep you full!
Dairy-free & gluten-free adaptable – suits most diets!
30-minute meal – faster than takeout!
Meal-prep superstar – tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Serves 6)

1.5 lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs, cubed (thighs = juicier!)
1 tbsp olive oil (or ghee)
1 onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or light coconut milk for dairy-free)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp garam masala
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
½ tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
1 tsp honey (or maple syrup)
½ tsp salt + ¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Instant Pot (Sauté mode). Add onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 3-4 mins until golden.

Toast Spices

Stir in garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 min to unlock flavors.

Cook Chicken

Add chicken and toss to coat in spices. Pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Simmer for 15 mins (stovetop) or 8 mins on High Pressure (Instant Pot).

Finish with Yogurt

Remove from heat. Stir in Greek yogurt (or coconut milk) and honey. Garnish with cilantro.

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, with Greek yogurt)

Calories: 275
Protein: 28g
Fat: 9g
Carbs: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 6g

Cook’s Notes

Boost veggies: Add 1 cup spinach or diced bell peppers with the tomatoes.
Slow cooker option: Cook on Low for 4-6 hours, add yogurt at the end.
Vegan swap: Use chickpeas or tofu + dairy-free yogurt.
Extra creamy? Blend the sauce before adding yogurt!
Freeze it! Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Serving Ideas

Classic: Cauliflower rice + cucumber-mint raita
Low-carb: Zucchini noodles + avocado slices
Comfort mode: Quinoa or whole-wheat naan
Meal prep: Portion with steamed broccoli + jasmine rice!

Why This Recipe Works

By swapping heavy cream for protein-rich Greek yogurt and using lean chicken breast, this dish cuts calories without skimping on flavor. The blend of turmeric, cumin, and garam masala offers anti-inflammatory benefits, while tomatoes add a dose of lycopene. Perfect for fitness lovers, busy parents, or anyone craving a lighter Indian feast!

#HealthyButterChicken on Instagram!