Is Indian butter chicken healthy?

While it is rich in flavor, butter chicken can be high in calories, so enjoy wisely.

Can I use paneer instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with paneer for a vegetarian option.

It's commonly served with basmati rice or naan for a complete meal.

Protein

Indian butter chicken is a creamy, rich dish made with tender chicken in a spiced tomato sauce, offering a taste of traditional Indian cuisine.

Per 100 g

240 kcal

1 serving

600 kcal

(250 g)

Protein	Carbs	Fat
20 g / 100g	10 g / 100g	15 g / 100g

Where the calories come from

Protein 31% · Carbs 16% · Fat 53%

Share of energy: 4 kcal per gram of protein and carbs, 9 kcal per gram of fat.

1 serving (250 g, 600 kcal) is 30% of a 2,000 kcal day. 2,000 kcal is the reference day used on nutrition labels, not a personal target.
Burning 1 serving takes about 146 min of brisk walking. Estimate for a 70 kg adult walking briskly (about 4 kcal a minute).

Indian Butter Chicken is number 6 of 6 by calories per 100 g, lowest first. The similar foods average 180 kcal per 100 g.

Nutrition data updated June 15, 2026.

6/10

Is Indian butter chicken healthy?: While it is rich in flavor, butter chicken can be high in calories, so enjoy wisely.
Can I use paneer instead of chicken?: Absolutely! You can replace chicken with paneer for a vegetarian option.
What can I serve it with?: It's commonly served with basmati rice or naan for a complete meal.

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