Easy Keto Chicken Recipes – Delicious Low-Carb Meals Anyone Can Make

Recipe: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

When it comes to the keto diet, finding meals that are both delicious and low in carbohydrates can sometimes feel like a challenge. But this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken recipe proves that eating keto doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or comfort. With tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich, garlicky butter sauce, this dish is pure indulgence — yet perfectly aligned with your low-carb lifestyle.

Packed with protein, healthy fats, and flavor, this easy keto chicken recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. The creamy sauce, made with butter, Parmesan, and a touch of Italian herbs, transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-quality dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table — keto or not.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make this irresistible creamy garlic butter chicken, share expert tips for perfect results, and answer common questions about keto cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. These simple seasonings add warmth and depth, creating a flavorful crust when seared.

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the chicken thighs (or breasts) in a single layer. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside. Don’t wipe out the skillet — those flavorful brown bits on the bottom will add incredible taste to your sauce.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).

Next, pour in ½ cup of heavy cream, ¼ cup of chicken broth, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir continuously to combine.

As the sauce simmers, it will begin to thicken and develop a rich, velvety texture. This takes about 2–3 minutes. The Parmesan helps thicken the sauce naturally while adding a subtle nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with garlic and butter.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed — you can add a pinch of salt or pepper to balance the flavors.

Step 3: Combine & Simmer

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce generously over each piece. Let it simmer together for 1–2 minutes so the chicken absorbs all that creamy, garlicky goodness.

This final step allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken moist and tender.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the creamy garlic butter chicken hot, paired with your favorite low-carb sides such as:

• Steamed or roasted vegetables (broccoli, zucchini, asparagus)
• Cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower
• Zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a keto-friendly pasta feel

The creamy sauce also works wonderfully as a drizzle over veggies or keto breadsticks for extra flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fat: 28g

This balance of high protein, moderate fat, and minimal carbs makes it an excellent choice for keto followers who want a filling, satisfying meal without breaking their macros.

Why This Recipe Works So Well on Keto

The keto diet emphasizes high-fat, moderate-protein, and low-carbohydrate foods. This creamy chicken dish fits perfectly into that framework:

1. High in Healthy Fats: The butter, olive oil, and heavy cream deliver satisfying fats that help keep you full and energized.
2. Low in Carbs: With only about 3 grams of net carbs per serving, this meal won’t kick you out of ketosis.
3. Rich in Protein: Chicken provides lean, high-quality protein to support muscle maintenance and satiety.
4. Full of Flavor: Garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs combine to create a restaurant-worthy flavor profile without relying on carb-heavy ingredients.

This balance of macronutrients makes it an ideal keto main dish that feels indulgent but is completely guilt-free.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken

1. Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness: Chicken thighs stay tender and flavorful even after simmering in the sauce. Breasts work too, but thighs provide a richer texture.
2. Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Burnt garlic turns bitter quickly. Sauté only until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Adjust the Creaminess: For a thicker sauce, simmer longer or add a little extra Parmesan. For a thinner sauce, stir in more chicken broth.
4. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, high-quality butter, and grated Parmesan make a noticeable difference in flavor.
5. Deglaze the Pan: The browned bits left after searing the chicken (called fond) are packed with flavor — let the cream and broth lift them into the sauce.
6. Customize Your Herbs: If you prefer a specific flavor, swap Italian seasoning for herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil.

Delicious Keto-Friendly Sides to Pair With

• Cauliflower Mash: Creamy mashed cauliflower with butter and Parmesan mimics mashed potatoes beautifully.
• Garlic Butter Zucchini Noodles: Light, flavorful, and perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Roasted Asparagus or Broccoli: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
• Shirataki Noodles: These low-carb noodles pair well with creamy sauces and provide a pasta-like experience without carbs.

Variations to Try

1. Spinach & Mushroom Version: Add a handful of spinach and sliced mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
2. Bacon Lovers’ Twist: Stir in crispy bacon bits before serving for a smoky, savory touch.
3. Spicy Garlic Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.
4. Sun-Dried Tomato Upgrade: Stir chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for a Mediterranean flavor boost.
5. Cheesy Bake: After preparing the sauce, transfer everything to an oven-safe dish, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly.

These variations make the recipe endlessly adaptable — perfect for keeping your keto meals exciting and flavorful.

How to Store & Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

Avoid microwaving for long periods, as it can make the chicken rubbery. Slow reheating ensures the sauce stays smooth and creamy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Cold Chicken: Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even searing.
2. Overcrowding the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents browning.
3. Skipping the Resting Step: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain juices.
4. Adding Cheese Too Early: Parmesan can clump if added before the cream is hot — wait until the sauce starts to simmer.
5. Using Low-Fat Cream: Heavy cream is essential for the rich texture. Substituting with milk or half-and-half can cause the sauce to separate.

Make It Dairy-Free or Paleo

If you’re avoiding dairy or following a paleo lifestyle, you can easily adapt this recipe:

• Replace butter with ghee or coconut oil.
• Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk.
• Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

These adjustments maintain the creamy, rich flavor while keeping the recipe fully compliant with your dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes. Chicken breasts work well — just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more quickly.

Q2: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. Heavy cream gives the best results for keto recipes.

Q3: How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a bit of heat.

Q4: What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
Simmer the sauce a little longer, or add a bit more Parmesan cheese until it reaches your desired consistency.

Q5: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sear the chicken first, then transfer it to a slow cooker with the sauce ingredients. Cook on low for 3–4 hours.

Q6: What vegetables go best with this dish?
Broccoli, asparagus, zucchini, and spinach are all excellent low-carb choices that pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Q7: Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely. Store individual servings in airtight containers and reheat throughout the week for quick keto lunches or dinners.

Q8: How do I prevent the sauce from separating when reheating?
Reheat slowly over low heat and whisk in a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce smooth.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken is the perfect example of how easy and satisfying keto cooking can be. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that delivers rich, comforting satisfaction without the carbs.

Whether you’re following a strict ketogenic diet or simply looking to reduce carbs while keeping your meals indulgent, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and hint of garlic make it a timeless comfort food — one you’ll crave again and again.

So grab your skillet and ingredients, and in less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality keto chicken dinner ready to enjoy.

Simple, flavorful, and utterly delicious — it’s proof that healthy eating can taste amazing.

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