Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and are often more forgiving than breasts because their higher fat content keeps them moist and tender. You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs and follow the same instructions. Just be aware that they may require a slightly longer cooking time to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F.

What can I serve with Keto Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

This dish is wonderfully versatile. For a classic low-carb meal, serve it over zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or cauliflower rice to soak up the amazing sauce. It also pairs beautifully with roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans. A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette offers a nice, light contrast to the rich sauce.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

The best way to ensure juicy chicken is to avoid overcooking it. Pounding the breasts to an even thickness helps them cook uniformly. The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer; remove the chicken from the heat as soon as it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Letting it simmer in the sauce at the end also helps it absorb moisture and stay tender.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Making this dish dairy-free is challenging, as cream and Parmesan cheese are core components. However, you can try substituting full-fat canned coconut cream for the heavy cream and a high-quality, dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for the cheese. Be aware that these substitutions will significantly alter the flavor and texture of the final dish, but it can still be a delicious dairy-free meal.

Keto Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Ultimate 30-Minute Recipe -

Description

A rich, creamy, and satisfying low-carb chicken dish featuring juicy seared chicken breasts in a garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for keto diets and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

4 medium-sized boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons butter

4–6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred)

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. If chicken breasts are thick, slice horizontally or pound to 1/2-inch thickness. Pat dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet and sauté minced garlic for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.

4. Deglaze pan with chicken broth, scraping up browned bits. Let simmer 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

5. Lower heat and slowly whisk in heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

6. Return chicken to skillet. Spoon sauce over chicken and let simmer 2-3 minutes.

7. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

Use a heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron for best sear and sauce consistency.

Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing chicken—work in batches if necessary.

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a smoother sauce.

Serve over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete keto meal.

To avoid dry chicken, use a meat thermometer and remove once internal temp reaches 165°F.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
Calories: 480
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 140mg