Recipe Notes:

Using Frozen Chicken Thighs: You can do this, but be aware that frozen chicken will not marinate nearly as well as thawed chicken. I personally wouldn’t use frozen chicken for this particular recipe, but it will still work.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs Substitution: The best alternative for chicken thighs would be drumsticks, which can be subbed at a 1:1 ratio, and have a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, chicken breasts will work fine here.

Full-Fat Greek Yogurt Substitution: Either plain, unsweetened yogurt or sour cream can be substituted for full-fat Greek yogurt at a 1:1 ratio.

Minced Garlic Substitution: Garlic paste can be subbed in for minced garlic at a 1:1 ratio. For garlic powder, use 3/4 tsp in place of the minced garlic called for in the recipe.

Fresh Ginger Substitution: You can substitute 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger for 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger.

Turmeric Substitution: While not an exact flavor match, you can substitute paprika for turmeric at a 1:1 ratio.

Garam Masala Substitution: Curry powder can be substituted for garam masala at a 1:1 ratio, though I would personally try and use garam masala to get the flavor profile that the original recipe intends.

Lemon Juice Substitution: Lime juice can be substituted for lemon juice 1:1.

Unsalted Butter Substitution: Ghee can be subbed in for butter at a 1:1 ratio.

Yellow Onion Substitution: Red or white onion can be used in place of yellow onion in this recipe. Note that this substitution may alter the overall net carb content of the recipe.

Diced Tomatoes Substitution: 2 cups of fresh chopped tomatoes can be substituted for 1 can, but be sure to retain and use all the juice as well.

Chili Powder Substitution: Dried cayenne powder can be subbed for chili powder at a 1:1 ratio. Note that this will add an extra layer of heat to the dish.

Where To Buy Monk Fruit Sweetener: I purchase mine from Lakanto and have it delivered. If you want to do this, you can use discount code REALBALANCED at checkout for 20% OFF your Lakanto order. If you’d rather purchase monk fruit sweetener in a store, many grocery stores, especially specialty stores and Costco, carry Lakanto’s monk fruit sweetener.

Golden Monk Fruit Sweetener Substitution: Classic Monk Fruit Sweetener, Swerve, or erythritol can be used here at a 1:1 substitution ratio. Note that if you make any substitutions to the Golden Monk Fruit Sweetener, the flavors in this dish may be slightly different than the original recipe intended.

Heavy Whipping Cream Substitution: Combine 1/4 cup of melted butter with 3/4 cup of milk and mix thoroughly to make the equivalent of 1 cup of heavy cream. If you are avoiding dairy, you can substitute full-fat canned coconut milk at a 1:1 ratio.

Net Carbs: Per serving, this recipe contains 5.6 grams of net carbs. The serving size is approximately 6 ounces of chicken with sauce and the recipe, as written, yields 6 servings. Net carbs are calculated by taking total carbs, subtracting fiber, and subtracting sugar alcohols.

Size Of Instant Pot: I personally use a 6 qt Instant Pot, but you can also make this in an 8 qt. Regardless of the size of Instant Pot you use, do not change the cook time. That will remain the same.

What To Serve With This Recipe: I personally love to serve butter chicken atop steamed cauliflower rice.

Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer Storage: Store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then microwave until warmed through.