Healthy Butter Chicken
(Ready in 30 Minutes!) | Lightened-Up Comfort Food!
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. Letโs dive in!
Why Youโll Love This Recipe 
Under 300 calories per serving โ indulge guilt-free!
Packed with protein โ 28g per serving to keep you full!
Dairy-free & gluten-free adaptable โ suits most diets!
30-minute meal โ faster than takeout!
Meal-prep superstar โ 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
- ยฝ tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
- 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup)
- ยฝ tsp salt + ยผ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions 
Sautรฉ Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Instant Pot (Sautรฉ 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
Cookโs 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!
Healthy Butter Chicken Recipe, Low-Calorie Indian Food, High-Protein Dinner, Dairy-Free Butter Chicken, 30-Minute Meals, Gluten-Free Indian Recipes
Love this? Try these next! [High-Protein Chicken Tikka Salad]
[Vegan Coconut Lentil Curry]
[Instant Pot Cauliflower Biryani]