Weeknight Keto Chicken and Dumplings in the Oven
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that won’t derail your keto diet, then this weeknight keto chicken and dumplings recipe is perfect for you. This dish brings the classic flavors of chicken and dumplings into a low-carb format that the whole family will love. With tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy dumplings, it’s a satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and bake in the oven.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can have a hearty meal on the table in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, by using almond flour and cream cheese, you can enjoy the fluffy dumplings without the carbs associated with traditional recipes. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken thighs, chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Once the mixture is simmering, cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the softened cream cheese and mix until well combined. You can use a hand mixer for a smoother consistency.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and melted butter. Then, fold this mixture into the almond flour mixture until a dough forms.
- After 25 minutes, remove the pot from the oven. Carefully uncover and stir the chicken mixture to ensure everything is well combined.
- Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling mixture on top of the chicken broth mixture. Make sure the dumplings are evenly spaced.
- Cover the pot again and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
- Once done, remove the pot from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy your weeknight keto chicken and dumplings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This weeknight keto chicken and dumplings recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender chicken and creamy broth creates a wonderful base, while the almond flour dumplings add a delightful texture. It’s comfort food without the guilt, making it perfect for anyone looking to maintain a low-carb lifestyle.
Tips for Success
To ensure that your dumplings turn out perfectly, avoid over-mixing the dough. Just combine the ingredients until they are blended; this will keep the dumplings light and fluffy. Also, feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Make sure to check the seasoning in your chicken broth before adding salt. Depending on the brand you use, it might already have enough salt, and you don’t want to over-season your dish.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken and dumplings in a pot over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth to loosen the mixture if it has thickened.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more easily. Thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and broth in advance, but it’s best to make the dumplings fresh just before baking to ensure they remain fluffy.
What if I don’t have almond flour?
If you don’t have almond flour, you could use coconut flour, but you will need to adjust the quantity, as coconut flour absorbs more liquid.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free due to the use of almond flour and no traditional wheat products.
Final Thoughts
This weeknight keto chicken and dumplings recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting dish while sticking to your dietary goals. It’s easy, quick, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, you’ll find that this dish satisfies cravings without the carbs. Give it a try tonight, and don’t forget to pin this recipe for future reference!
