Oven Baked Keto Butter Chicken with Veggies
Welcome to a delicious journey through the world of keto cooking! Today, we are making an oven baked keto butter chicken with veggies that is not only low in carbs but also bursting with flavor. This dish is perfect for anyone following a ketogenic diet or simply looking to enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt. With its rich, creamy sauce and colorful vegetables, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Whether you’re new to the keto lifestyle or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying. The combination of spices, butter, and fresh vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. So, let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious dish!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, melted butter, tomato paste, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them evenly with the sauce mixture. Make sure every piece of chicken is well covered.
- In a large baking dish, arrange the coated chicken thighs in a single layer.
- Next, add the broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini around the chicken in the baking dish. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the vegetables.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy your oven baked keto butter chicken with veggies!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This oven baked keto butter chicken is not just another recipe; it’s a complete meal that’s packed with protein and healthy fats while being low in carbohydrates. The use of heavy cream and butter contributes to a rich flavor profile that will satisfy any craving for comfort food without compromising your dietary goals. Plus, the addition of vibrant veggies adds both nutrition and color to your plate.
One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have available or what’s in season. Cauliflower, green beans, or even asparagus could work beautifully in this recipe. Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own!
Tips for Perfect Keto Butter Chicken
To ensure your oven baked keto butter chicken turns out perfectly, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for organic chicken and fresh vegetables when possible. Quality ingredients make a significant difference in flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Marinade: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) enhances the flavors.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your chicken. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F).
- Make it Spicy: If you enjoy heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
This oven baked keto butter chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complement your meal:
- Cauliflower Rice: A popular keto alternative to traditional rice, cauliflower rice soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully.
- Zoodles: Zucchini noodles are another great low-carb option that adds a fresh element to the meal.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Storing and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely!), storing them is easy. Place the chicken and veggies in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of cream or broth to keep the dish moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables. Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
4. How do I adjust the spice level?
You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less of the garam masala, or by incorporating other spices like cayenne or chili powder for added heat.
Conclusion
Oven baked keto butter chicken with veggies is a delightful dish that brings comfort and nutrition together in one bowl. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and enjoy a delicious, healthy meal that fits seamlessly into your keto lifestyle!
