Low Carb Creamy Garlic Chicken: A Luscious, Keto-Friendly Delight 😋
Craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that fits your low-carb or keto lifestyle? Look no further than this Low Carb Creamy Garlic Chicken! This dish features tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs smothered in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce that’s bursting with savory flavors. With the perfect balance of garlic, parmesan, and Italian herbs, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste in under 30 minutes. It’s an ideal choice for a quick weeknight meal, a cozy date-night dinner, or a satisfying dish to impress your guests—without the carbs! Pair it with your favorite low-carb sides, and you’ve got a meal that’s as delicious as it is guilt-free.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Diet: Low Carb, Keto-Friendly, Gluten-Free
Ingredients for Low Carb Creamy Garlic Chicken
Gather these simple, wholesome ingredients to create a dish that’s both indulgent and low-carb:
For the Chicken:
- Chicken: 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Breasts offer a leaner option, while thighs bring extra juiciness—choose based on your preference!
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chicken. Freshly ground pepper adds a bold touch.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for searing the chicken to golden perfection.
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- Garlic: 4 cloves, finely minced. Fresh garlic is essential for that aromatic, savory backbone.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240 ml), for a rich, creamy base that’s naturally low-carb.
- Chicken Broth: ½ cup (120 ml), to thin the sauce slightly and add depth of flavor. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
- Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup (25 g), freshly grated. Parmesan adds a nutty, umami kick—grate it fresh for the smoothest texture.
- Butter: 1 tablespoon, for a silky finish and extra richness in the sauce.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon, for a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that elevate the flavor profile.
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the sauce to perfection.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for a burst of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Keto-Friendly Masterpiece
Follow these straightforward steps to create a creamy, garlicky chicken dish that’s sure to become a staple in your low-carb recipe collection:
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp, golden sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the chicken’s natural flavor and sets the stage for the rich sauce.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken pieces, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if needed). Sear for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). The golden crust adds incredible flavor! Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to release its fragrant aroma. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter.
- Build the Creamy Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble softly for 2–3 minutes. This helps the sauce develop its rich, velvety texture while blending the flavors.
- Add Parmesan and Seasoning: Stir in ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Whisk gently until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed. The parmesan and herbs give the sauce a savory, herbaceous depth that’s irresistible.
- Recombine Chicken and Sauce: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling each piece into the creamy sauce. Spoon the sauce generously over the chicken to coat it thoroughly. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2–3 minutes to warm through and allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: For a vibrant finishing touch, sprinkle the chicken with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately, ensuring each plate gets plenty of that luscious sauce. Pair with low-carb sides like sautéed spinach, roasted zucchini, or cauliflower mash for a complete keto-friendly meal.
Serving Suggestions and Low-Carb Pairings
This Low Carb Creamy Garlic Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of low-carb sides to keep your meal keto-friendly and satisfying:
- Vegetable Sides: Serve with sautéed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp side salad with a creamy dressing to complement the sauce.
- Cauliflower Creations: Cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower soaked in the creamy garlic sauce is a match made in heaven.
- Zoodles: Spiralized zucchini noodles make a fantastic low-carb base for soaking up the sauce.
- Extra Garnish: Add a sprinkle of extra parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if you like a bit of heat.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken
Here are some expert tips to ensure your dish turns out flawlessly every time:
- Choose Your Chicken: Thighs are naturally juicier and more forgiving, while breasts are leaner. If using breasts, avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly grated parmesan and minced garlic for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated cheese or jarred garlic can compromise the sauce’s quality.
- Control the Thickness: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of extra chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Make It Spicy: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a dash of cayenne to the sauce.
- Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping. Store in single-serve containers with your favorite low-carb sides for quick lunches or dinners.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your creamy garlic chicken to maintain its deliciousness:
- Storage: Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Store any sides separately to preserve their texture.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens in the fridge. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Freezing: The chicken and sauce can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that the sauce may separate slightly upon freezing but can be whisked back together when reheating.
Why This Recipe is a Low-Carb Winner
This Low Carb Creamy Garlic Chicken is a must-try for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet—or anyone who loves bold, comforting flavors! Here’s why it shines:
- Keto-Friendly: With no flour or starchy thickeners, this dish is naturally low in carbs and perfect for ketogenic diets.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
- Rich and Satisfying: The creamy, garlicky sauce makes every bite indulgent without derailing your diet.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with different proteins (like shrimp or pork) or additional low-carb veggies.
A Low-Carb Dish to Savor
This Low Carb Creamy Garlic Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavor, comfort, and healthy eating. The tender chicken, bathed in a luxurious garlic-parmesan sauce, is sure to satisfy your cravings while keeping your carb count low. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a special gathering, this dish is guaranteed to impress with its simplicity and bold taste. Try it tonight and discover your new favorite low-carb dinner!
