Whole30 Chicken Tikka Masala

Indulge in a healthier twist on a classic with this Whole30 Chicken Tikka Masala, a creamy, flavor-packed dish that’s completely dairy-free and paleo-friendly. Tender, bite-sized chicken thighs are simmered in a luscious tomato and coconut milk-based sauce, infused with aromatic spices like garam masala, turmeric, and cumin. Made with wholesome ingredients like full-fat coconut milk, ghee, and fresh ginger, this recipe stays true to the bold flavors of traditional tikka masala while keeping it compliant with Whole30 guidelines. Ready in just an hour, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, and the addition of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of tangy lime elevates each bite to perfection. Serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside roasted veggies for a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious!

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 can coconut milk (full-fat)
• 0.5 cup coconut cream
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons ghee
• 1 large yellow onion
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 inch fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro
• 1 lime

Directions

Step 1

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Step 2

Finely chop the onion, garlic, and ginger. Set aside for later use.

Step 3

Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Add the garlic and ginger to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes until aromatic.

Step 5

Stir in the tomato paste, coconut milk, coconut cream, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes.

Step 7

In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of ghee over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 8

Transfer the browned chicken into the sauce. Stir to combine and ensure all chicken pieces are coated.

Step 9

Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 10

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in freshly chopped cilantro.

Step 11

Serve hot with a lime wedge on the side for added freshness.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1156.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2363.3

Total Fat 131.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 63.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2g
Cholesterol 930.5mg	0%
Sodium 3048.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 107.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.9g	0%
Total Sugars 74.9g
Protein 185.6g	0%

Vitamin D 47.6IU	0%
Calcium 266.6mg	0%
Iron 16.4mg	0%
Potassium 2824.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 50.3%

Protein: 31.4%

Carbs: 18.3%