Introduction
Are you searching for easy weeknight keto chicken breast recipes that deliver on flavor while keeping your carb intake low? You’re in the right place! Chicken breast is not only a versatile protein but also a keto-friendly option that can be prepared in numerous ways. With busy schedules, it’s crucial to have quick and easy recipes that you can whip up on a weeknight without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
In this article, we’ll explore a variety of easy weeknight keto chicken breast recipes that will leave your taste buds satisfied and your family asking for seconds. These recipes are straightforward, require minimal prep time, and feature ingredients that are commonly found in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the delicious world of keto chicken!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the garlic, and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture, stirring continuously until it melts and thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce. Allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, so the flavors meld together.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Enjoy your creamy garlic chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete keto meal!
More Easy Weeknight Keto Chicken Recipes
In addition to the creamy garlic chicken, here are a few more easy weeknight keto chicken breast recipes to keep your dinner rotation exciting.
1. Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
This zesty lemon herb grilled chicken is perfect for summer evenings. The marinade made from lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs infuses the chicken with bright flavors.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
2. Spicy Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this spicy cream cheese stuffed chicken is a fantastic option. The cream cheese filling adds richness while the spices provide a kick.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup jalapeños, diced (fresh or pickled)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, diced jalapeños, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in each chicken breast.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
3. One-Pan Pesto Chicken and Veggies
Simplify your cleanup with this one-pan pesto chicken and veggies recipe. The vibrant flavors of basil pesto combined with roasted vegetables create a delightful meal.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 2 cups assorted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a bowl, toss the assorted vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes.
- While the vegetables are roasting, brush the chicken breasts with basil pesto.
- After 10 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven and push the vegetables to one side.
- Place the chicken breasts on the baking sheet and return to the oven. Roast for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve warm, drizzled with any remaining pesto if desired.
4. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
These teriyaki chicken skewers are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy your protein. Marinated in a homemade sugar-free teriyaki sauce, these skewers are perfect for grilling or broiling.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ginger powder to create the marinade.
- Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or broiler.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers.
- Grill or broil the skewers for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve the skewers with a side of cauliflower rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
FAQ
What is the best way to cook chicken breast to keep it moist?
Cooking chicken breasts at a medium heat and not overcooking them is key to keeping them moist. Using marinades can also help retain moisture.
Can I freeze cooked chicken breast?
Yes, cooked chicken breast can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
How do I know when chicken breast is fully cooked?
Chicken breast is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check.
What are some low-carb sides to serve with chicken?
Great low-carb sides include steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, cauliflower rice, or a fresh salad. These pair well with any chicken dish while keeping your meal keto-friendly.
Conclusion
Now that you have a collection of easy weeknight keto chicken breast recipes at your fingertips, you can enjoy delicious, low-carb meals without the stress of complicated cooking. Each recipe is designed to be quick, flavorful, and satisfying, ensuring that you stay on track with your keto lifestyle while enjoying every bite. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and let’s make weeknight dinners something to look forward to!
