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Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Meatballs 🍲

Published: · Updated: by · 8 Comments

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Get ready to spice up your keto meal with these incredible Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Meatballs! Packed with flavors, these tender and juicy meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic Indian dish. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner, these keto-friendly meatballs will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So grab your apron and dive into this mouthwatering Chicken Tikka Meatballs Recipe!

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Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Meatballs in a cast iron skillet

Preparation and cooking overview

Preparing these Keto Tikka Masala Meatballs hardly takes 30 minutes. Combine ground chicken with spices, form small meatballs, and fry them to golden perfection. Let them simmer in spiced tomato cream sauce, and a delicious dish is ready to serve!

Chef's note

To complete your Chicken Tikka Meatballs meal, serve them with homemade Keto Naan or Dinner Rolls. These low-carb alternatives are perfect for dipping into the rich, flavorful tikka masala sauce. We bet this is something you're always going to pair!

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 Minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 2 Servings

🍲 Ingredients for this keto chicken tikka meatballs recipe

Here is a list of ingredients you will need for this classic dish:

For meatballs

  • 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro, minced
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1 small shallot, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

For tikka sauce

  • 3 tablespoons ghee
  • 1 small white onion, diced
  • 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 serranos, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Sea salt to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves

Ingredient substitutions

  • Avocado oil: You can swap avocado oil with coconut oil.
  • Shallot and white onion: Use red onions as a substitute.
  • Ghee: Replace ghee with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a similar richness.
  • Serranos: If you prefer milder heat, you can substitute serrano peppers with jalapeño peppers. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
  • Tomatoes: You can also use fresh tomatoes if you don't prefer canned tomatoes.
  • Heavy cream: You can use coconut cream or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter option.

Cooking tools required

To make this Tikka Masala Meatballs recipe, you will need the following cooking tools:

  • Medium bowl
  • Large 10" or larger deep-sided cast-iron skillet
  • Slotted spoon
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula
  • Chopping board
  • Knife

Tool substitutes list

  • 10" Cast iron skillet: You can use a 5-quart Dutch oven, a regular frying pan, or a stainless steel skillet of a similar size.
  • Slotted spoon: Use a regular spoon and a fork to lift items out of the oil.

How to make Keto Chicken Tikka Meatballs: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Frying & simmering

Preparation steps

  1. Gather all the necessary ingredients.
  2. Chop the aromatics: shallot, onion, garlic, serranos, and ginger.
  3. Set up your cooking area.

Cooking instructions

  1. Combine the ground chicken, cilantro, garam masala, and salt in a medium bowl.
  2. Add the avocado oil to a large 10" or deep-sided cast-iron skillet.
  3. Once hot, fry the shallot and garlic for 3-4 minutes until they start the crisp.
  4. Use a slotted spoon to scoop the shallot and garlic and add it to the chicken. Reserve the oil in the pan.
  5. Combine the chicken mixture and divide into 2-inch balls. Fry the meatballs for 1-2 minutes per side at medium heat until golden. Remove and set aside.
  6. Add ghee, onion, garlic, serranos, and ginger to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until soft.
  7. Add in the garam masala, curry powder, and cayenne. Cook a minute longer to toast the spices.
  8. Add in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream. Bring it to a simmer.
  9. Add the meatballs to the skillet, simmer for 10 minutes, then top with cilantro and serve.
  • meatball mixture in bowl
  • raw meatballs on plate
  • meatballs being fried in skillet
  • cooked meatballs on plate
  • onions, ghee, ginger, garlic, and serranos in skillet
  • cooked meatballs in skillet with tikka masala sauce

Chef's pro tip

To ensure tender and succulent keto tikka masala meatballs, avoid overcooking, leading to a dry and tough texture. Follow the recommended cooking time and temperature guidelines diligently for the best results.

What to serve with keto chicken tikka masala meatballs?

There are a few staples to serve with this classic dish, for example:

  • Cauliflower rice: It soaks up all the delicious, spicy sauce, exploding flavor in every bite.
  • Yogurt raita: A classic yogurt raita with mint, cumin, salt & freshly cracked pepper gives a divine taste when paired with Indian dishes.
  • Keto salad: Add sliced cucumbers, lettuce, radishes, and a drizzle of your favorite keto-friendly dressing, and enjoy this chicken tikka dish.
  • Keto bread: Scoop up the tikka masala sauce and enjoy the classic "chapaati and saalan" with a Keto Naan or Keto Dinner Rolls.
Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Meatballs in a cast iron skillet

How to make it healthier?

  • Reduce the added salt and use a low-sodium version of canned tomatoes.
  • Feel free to sneak some additional veggies into the dish.
  • Use high-quality ground chicken.
  • To make this dish Whole30 compliant and dairy-free, substitute the ghee for coconut oil and the heavy cream for unsweetened coconut milk.

Time-saving tips

  • Use a food processor and get your onions, garlic, and herbs minced in seconds.
  • Buy pre-made garam masala.
  • Use a small ice cream or cookie scoop to get evenly-sized meatballs.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Prepare a dry mix of garam masala, curry powder, and cayenne in advance.
  • Crush your tomatoes if you don't want canned tomatoes.
  • Make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will also help the spices to meld perfectly.

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage tips

  • Fridge: Transfer the leftovers into airtight containers and keep them in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
  • Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, pop them into a freezer-safe container or bag. You can store it for 2 months.

Reheating best practices

  • Microwave: Place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish, cover them with a microwave-safe lid, or wrap and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, then carefully remove (it'll be hot!).
  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, and heat for 15-20 minutes.
  • Stovetop: Place the leftovers in a skillet or saucepan. Heat them over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even heating.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

In this Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Meatballs recipe, we've transformed our Keto Chicken Tikka Masala into delightful meatballs! It's a healthy, low-carb twist on an Indian chicken dish bursting with incredible flavors. In fact, this dish combines typical tikka masala spices with bite-sized chicken meatballs. The best part is that in just 30 minutes, you can create this visually stunning and flavor-packed recipe.

If you've enjoyed these Keto Chicken Meatballs, we'd love to hear your thoughts! Capture a photo of your masterpiece, share it on social media, and tag us. Feel free to share this recipe with your family and friends, as it's meant to be enjoyed and celebrated together.

Love Indian food? Here are some delicious options to cherish the keto versions of classics!

Frequently asked questions

Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly. It is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, making it suitable for a ketogenic diet. 

If the sauce is too spicy, you can balance the spice by adding more heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

To help the meatballs hold together, thoroughly mix the ingredients and ensure the ground chicken is well combined with the spices. You can also refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes before forming the meatballs.

If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a bit longer. Also, you can add a small amount of tomato paste to thicken the sauce.

Marinating the chicken can enhance flavor and tenderness, but it's not necessary. The spices and flavors from the sauce will still infuse into the meatballs during cooking.

📖 Recipe

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Meatballs in a cast iron skillet

Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Meatballs

These Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Meatballs are a keto twist on the Indian classic. Packed with flavor and spices, this is a perfect low-carb dinner!
4.72 from 7 votes
Print Rate Pin Recipe
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: 30-minute, keto meatballs, low carb
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 495kcal

Ingredients

For meatballs

  • 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro minced
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1 small shallot thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic thinly sliced

For tikka sauce

  • 3 tablespoons ghee
  • 1 small white onion diced
  • 2 fresh garlic cloves minced
  • 2 serranos thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • 2 tablespoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 28- ounce can of crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Sea salt to taste
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Combine the ground chicken, cilantro, garam masala, and salt in a medium bowl.
  • Add the avocado oil to a large 10" or deep-sided cast-iron skillet.
  • Once hot, fry the shallot and garlic for 3-4 minutes until they start the crisp.
  • Use a slotted spoon to scoop the shallot and garlic and add it to the chicken. Reserve the oil in the pan.
  • Combine the chicken mixture and divide into 2-inch balls. Fry the meatballs for 1-2 minutes per side at medium heat until golden. Remove and set aside.
  • Add ghee, onion, garlic, serranos, and ginger to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until soft.
  • Add in the garam masala, curry powder, and cayenne. Cook a minute longer to toast the spices.
  • Add in the crushed tomatoes and heavy cream. Bring it to a simmer.
  • Add the meatballs to the skillet, simmer for 10 minutes, then top with cilantro and serve.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Keto Chicken Tikka Masala Meatballs
Amount Per Serving
Calories 495 Calories from Fat 369
% Daily Value*
Fat 41g63%
Saturated Fat 18g113%
Cholesterol 171mg57%
Sodium 480mg21%
Potassium 982mg28%
Carbohydrates 10g3%
Fiber 3g13%
Sugar 5g6%
Protein 23g46%
Vitamin A 1827IU37%
Vitamin C 22mg27%
Calcium 54mg5%
Iron 1mg6%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

# Hashtag with us!Don't forget to mention @castiron_keto or tag #castironketo on Instagram with your creations! We love seeing what you're making.

 

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Paula Fearn says

    5 stars
    Made it for the whole family
    They all loved it

    Reply

  2. Ren says

    5 stars
    Wow. This was amazing. I bookmarked recipe months ago and just made tonight after a long work from home day. It was some prep work for sure but worth every chop and spice measure. Wish I made a bigger batch!

    Reply

  3. Rachel says

    Is there a way to sub out the heavy cream for something non-dairy and possibly Whole30 approved?

    Reply

    • Cast Iron Keto says

      Hi Rachel, you could use coconut milk!

      Reply

  4. Stella Elisabeth Borne Mikkelsen says

    how do you get the sauce to deliciously red?

    Reply

  5. Lisa says

    That looks awesome!

    Reply

  6. Marian says

    5 stars
    This was absolutely delicious! Definite keep in the favorite file. I used just one seeded serrano and half of the cayenne pepper and it was still spicy on my scale.

    Reply

  7. Robin says

    This is the best Keto meal I’ve made to date. I made a yogurt chutney and roasted cauliflower to with it. Absolute heaven.

    Reply

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