Introduction
Are you looking for a delicious and easy meal prep idea that fits perfectly into your gluten free and keto lifestyle? Look no further! This gluten free keto chicken gravy meal prep is not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying. With rich, savory flavors and the benefits of healthy fats, this dish will keep you full and energized throughout the day.
Meal prepping is a fantastic way to stay on track with your dietary goals, and this chicken gravy recipe makes it even easier. You can prepare everything in advance and simply reheat it during the week for a quick and nutritious meal. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and get you started on your meal prep journey!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth (gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups steamed broccoli (or your choice of low-carb vegetable)
Instructions
- Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and onion powder.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and golden brown.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in the almond flour to thicken the gravy, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add the dried thyme and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet, coating them in the gravy.
- Simmer everything together for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- While the chicken is simmering, steam your broccoli or preferred low-carb vegetable.
- Once everything is cooked, divide the chicken and gravy mixture into meal prep containers and serve with the steamed broccoli.
Why This Recipe Works
This gluten free keto chicken gravy meal prep is designed with your health and convenience in mind. The use of chicken thighs ensures that the meat remains juicy and flavorful, while the almond flour provides a gluten-free thickening agent for the gravy. Heavy cream adds richness and helps maintain the high-fat content necessary for a keto-friendly meal.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it also packs a nutritional punch. With lean protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the butter and cream, and fiber from the vegetables, you’re getting a balanced meal that supports your dietary needs.
Meal Prep Tips
When meal prepping, organization is key. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your gluten free keto chicken gravy meal prep goes smoothly:
1. **Batch Cooking**: Consider making a larger batch of chicken and gravy so you can portion out meals for the entire week. This will save you time and effort on busy nights.
2. **Storage**: Use airtight containers to store your meal preps. They help keep food fresh and prevent spills in your fridge.
3. **Reheating**: When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth if the gravy thickens too much while stored.
4. **Mix and Match**: Feel free to change up the vegetables or sides to keep things interesting. Cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or sautéed spinach all work well with this dish.
Customizations and Variations
While this gluten free keto chicken gravy meal prep is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it according to your taste preferences.
– **Spice It Up**: Add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
– **Herbs**: Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives can be added just before serving for a burst of freshness.
– **Mushrooms**: Sautéed mushrooms can be added to the gravy for an earthy flavor.
– **Different Proteins**: Swap the chicken for turkey or pork, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this meal prep ahead of time?
Yes! This meal prep can be made a few days in advance. Store it in airtight containers and refrigerate for easy reheating during the week.
2. How long can I store the chicken gravy meal prep?
You can store the meal prep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
3. Is this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free butter.
4. What other vegetables can I use with this meal prep?
You can use any low-carb vegetables such as asparagus, cauliflower, or green beans. Choose whatever you enjoy or have on hand.
Conclusion
Incorporating this gluten free keto chicken gravy meal prep into your weekly routine not only simplifies your meal planning but also guarantees that you will enjoy delicious and nutritious meals. With the combination of juicy chicken and creamy gravy, served alongside vibrant veggies, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping you on track with your health goals.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and create a meal prep that will make your weeknights easy and enjoyable. Happy cooking!
