One-Skillet Keto Chicken Dinner
A quick, comforting, and low-carb meal made in just one pan! This One-Skillet Keto Chicken Dinner combines juicy chicken, buttery garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked low-carb vegetables for a flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and rich flavors while staying completely keto-friendly.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: ~420 kcal per serving
Net Carbs: ~4g per serving
Ingredients
For the Chicken
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4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Vegetables
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1 cup broccoli florets
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1 cup zucchini slices
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½ cup bell pepper slices
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½ cup mushrooms, sliced
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
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½ cup heavy cream
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¼ cup chicken broth
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½ cup grated parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Kitchen Tools Needed
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Large skillet or cast-iron pan
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Knife and cutting board
Instructions
1. Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This helps create a flavorful crust while cooking.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Cook the Vegetables
Add broccoli, zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften but still have a slight crunch.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3–4 minutes so it slightly thickens.
6. Add Parmesan
Stir in the parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
7. Return the Chicken to the Skillet
Place the chicken back into the skillet, nestling it between the vegetables. Spoon some of the sauce over the top.
8. Simmer and Finish
Cover the skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
9. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish before serving. Serve hot straight from the skillet.
Keto Tips for This Recipe
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Use chicken thighs for more fat and flavor.
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Avoid overcooking vegetables to keep their texture.
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If you want thicker sauce, add extra parmesan.
Variations
Spicy Version
Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Dairy-Free Option
Replace butter with avocado oil and heavy cream with coconut cream.
Extra Cheesy Version
Top with mozzarella cheese and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
What to Serve With
This dish pairs well with other keto sides such as:
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Cauliflower rice
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Keto garlic bread
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Zucchini noodles
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Simple avocado salad
Storage & Meal Prep
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1–2 minutes.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 420 kcal
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Protein: 34g
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Fat: 30g
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Total Carbs: 6g
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Net Carbs: 4g
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Fiber: 2g