5 Quick Keto Chicken Recipes for Easy Dinners

The ketogenic or keto diet has become a popular choice for many looking to lose weight, improve their health, and even enhance their performance in the kitchen. With its focus on low-carb, high-fat foods, chicken emerges as a versatile protein source that fits perfectly into the keto lifestyle. Here are five quick and delicious keto chicken recipes that you can whip up for easy dinners, ensuring you stay on track with your keto goals while enjoying flavorsome meals.

1. Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken

Nothing screams comfort food like a dish coated in garlic and Parmesan. This recipe not only provides that homey feel but also keeps you within your carb limit.

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden, about 5 minutes per side. Set aside.
4. Reduce the heat to low, and in the same skillet, melt the butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet, top with Parmesan cheese, and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with parsley, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

💡 Note: This recipe can be prepared ahead of time; just ensure the chicken is thoroughly reheated before serving.

2. Keto Chicken Fajita Bowl

Transform traditional fajitas into a keto-friendly bowl meal that’s quick to make and delicious to eat.

• 2 lbs chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

1. Mix chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
2. Season the chicken strips with half of the spice mixture.
3. In a large skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed, then sauté the peppers and onion until tender. Add the remaining spice mix and cook for another minute.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet, squeeze lime juice over the mix, and toss everything together.
6. Serve in bowls, optionally topped with avocado or sour cream for an extra keto-friendly touch.

3. Instant Pot Keto Chicken Soup

Soups are comfort food at its finest, and this Instant Pot chicken soup is not only quick but also keto-compliant, loaded with healthy fats.

• 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 carrots, sliced (for a strict keto version, use less or substitute with other keto veggies)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté. Add a little oil, then brown the chicken pieces. Remove and set aside.
2. Add onions, garlic, celery, and carrots to the pot and sauté until softened.
3. Return the chicken to the pot, add broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid, set to high pressure for 15 minutes.
4. After cooking, perform a quick release. If using heavy cream, add it now, then stir well.
5. Remove chicken, shred it with forks, and return it to the pot before serving.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

4. Creamy Tuscan Chicken

This dish transports you to the countryside of Tuscany with its rich, creamy sauce and hearty chicken.

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh spinach, washed
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add chicken, and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes each side. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic, sauté for a minute, then add sun-dried tomatoes, cook for another minute.
4. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted, then add spinach. Cook until wilted.
5. Return chicken to skillet, spoon the sauce over it, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the chicken is warmed through.

5. Chicken Avocado Lime Keto Bowl

If you’re in the mood for something lighter but still satisfying, this chicken avocado lime bowl is the way to go.

• 2 lbs chicken breasts, diced
• 2 avocados, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1-2 limes, for juice and zest
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• Salt, pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan, add chicken, and cook until fully cooked, about 7 minutes.
3. In a bowl, mix diced avocado, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve the chicken over a bed of the avocado mixture.

In summary, these five keto chicken recipes offer quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner options that fit perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. From the rich comfort of Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken to the vibrant freshness of the Chicken Avocado Lime Keto Bowl, each dish provides a delicious way to adhere to your dietary goals without compromising on taste or time. Remember, with a little creativity and planning, eating keto can be not only nutritious but also incredibly enjoyable, allowing you to explore a variety of flavors and textures while keeping your meals simple and family-friendly.

Can I prepare these recipes in advance?

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Yes, most of these recipes can be made in advance. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and reheat gently before serving.

Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?

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Absolutely, the Garlic Butter Parmesan Chicken and the Chicken Avocado Lime Keto Bowl are particularly good for meal prep as they can be stored and reheated well. Just keep avocado and lime fresh until serving for the latter.

Can I use different cuts of chicken for these recipes?

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Yes, feel free to use thighs, drumsticks, or even ground chicken in some recipes. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I ensure my meals remain keto while being tasty?

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Experiment with herbs, spices, and quality fats like avocado or olive oil. Also, ingredients like heavy cream and cheese can add richness and flavor to your dishes.