Keto Garlic Chicken
Keto Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breast with the rich flavors of garlic and fresh herbs. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, showcasing how simple ingredients can create an impressive meal. With its low-carb profile, this dish aligns well with keto diets and can easily be adjusted for meal prep or quick dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, lemon, and fresh parsley creates a burst of flavor with every bite.
- Versatile: Serve it on its own or pair it with a side salad or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
- Low Carb: With only 4.3 grams of carbohydrates per serving, it’s perfect for anyone looking to maintain a keto lifestyle.
- Nutritious: Packed with vitamins from spinach and tomatoes, this dish supports a balanced diet while being delicious.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essentials you’ll need to whip up your Keto Garlic Chicken efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Small blender (like Ninja bullet)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking without sticking, making cleanup easier.
- Small blender: Perfect for quickly combining ingredients into a smooth garlic butter mixture.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.

Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 12 oz chicken breast, diced
- 3 tablespoon butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 bunch of parsley, stems trimmed
- 1/2 teaspoon each salt & pepper
For the Vegetables
- 10 cherry tomatoes, cut in half
- 2 cups baby spinach, fresh
For Serving
- 2 tablespoon Parmesan cheese
- 1 lemon
How to Make Keto Garlic Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a small blender, pulse together the softened butter, olive oil, garlic cloves, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth and fully combined. Scrape out the mixture and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and sauté for about 3 minutes or until it starts to brown. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the chicken and continue cooking until most of the juice has evaporated, about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add Garlic Butter
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add 1 tablespoon of your prepared garlic butter to the skillet and stir until melted.
Step 4: Incorporate Cherry Tomatoes
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until they begin to soften.
Step 5: Add Spinach
Toss in the fresh baby spinach and sauté for an additional minute or until wilted.
Step 6: Serve
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving hot. Enjoy your flavorful Keto Garlic Chicken!
How to Serve Keto Garlic Chicken
Keto Garlic Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.
Fresh Salad
- A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can complement the flavors of the chicken beautifully.
Zucchini Noodles
- Spiralized zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative to pasta. Toss them lightly in olive oil and garlic for added flavor.
Cauliflower Rice
- Fluffy cauliflower rice serves as an excellent base for Keto Garlic Chicken. It absorbs the juices and adds a nice texture.
Grilled Vegetables
- Charred bell peppers, asparagus, or broccoli provide a colorful and nutritious side that enhances the overall plate.
Creamy Avocado Slices
- Add sliced avocado on the side for a creamy, healthy fat boost. It balances the dish’s flavors perfectly.
How to Perfect Keto Garlic Chicken
To ensure your Keto Garlic Chicken is always delicious, keep these tips in mind.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a significant difference in flavor compared to dried alternatives.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Aim for juicy, tender pieces by cooking just until they’re no longer pink in the center.
- Customize your seasoning: Feel free to add extra spices like paprika or Italian herbs for more depth in flavor.
- Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices.
- Experiment with toppings: Try different cheese varieties or fresh herbs as toppings for added flair.
Best Side Dishes for Keto Garlic Chicken
Pairing your Keto Garlic Chicken with the right sides can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts
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These crispy vegetables provide a nutty flavor that complements the chicken well. Drizzle with olive oil and roast until golden.
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Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
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Creamy mashed cauliflower infused with garlic offers a rich texture without the carbs of traditional mashed potatoes.
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Sautéed Green Beans
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Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in olive oil and garlic make for a bright and flavorful side dish.
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Spinach Salad
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A fresh spinach salad topped with nuts and cheese can add crunch and nutrition while providing contrast to the warm chicken.
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Cabbage Stir-Fry
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Quick stir-fried cabbage with sesame oil makes for an easy, low-carb side that pairs well with any protein.
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Stuffed Bell Peppers
- Fill bell peppers with quinoa, vegetables, or cheese as a hearty side option that complements the flavors of Keto Garlic Chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overcooking the chicken. This can lead to dry meat. Cook just until browned and fully cooked through to maintain juiciness.
- Don’t skip the garlic butter mixture. It adds flavor to the dish. Make sure to blend it well for a smooth consistency before adding it to the chicken.
- Be careful with seasoning. Using too little salt and pepper can make the dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust for optimal flavor.
- Forgetting the spinach can reduce nutritional value. Always include it for added health benefits and vibrant color.
- Neglecting fresh herbs can diminish freshness in flavor. Use fresh parsley as recommended for a burst of taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow cooling completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Keto Garlic Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.
Reheating Keto Garlic Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use medium power, heating in short bursts (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low, adding a splash of water or broth if needed, stirring until heated evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Keto Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that raises many questions. Here are some common inquiries:
Can I use other protein sources for Keto Garlic Chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb while keeping the recipe delicious.
What are the best sides to serve with Keto Garlic Chicken?
Consider pairing it with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a side salad for a complete meal.
How can I customize Keto Garlic Chicken?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavors while remaining low-carb.
Is Keto Garlic Chicken suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge and freezes nicely, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Final Thoughts
Keto Garlic Chicken is not just easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Its rich flavors make it an ideal choice for any dinner occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste!
Keto Garlic Chicken
Keto Garlic Chicken is a scrumptious dish that combines tender chicken breast with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that adheres to low-carb dietary preferences. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to pair with various sides like salads or cauliflower rice, ensuring you enjoy a nutritious dinner without compromising on taste. The vibrant flavors of garlic, lemon, and parsley will leave your taste buds satisfied while supporting your ketogenic lifestyle.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 12 oz chicken breast, diced
- 3 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 bunch of parsley, stems trimmed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 10 cherry tomatoes, cut in half
- 2 cups baby spinach, fresh
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the garlic butter by blending softened butter, olive oil, garlic cloves, parsley, salt, and pepper in a small blender until smooth.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the diced chicken for about 3 minutes until browned.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken and cook until most of the juice evaporates (about 2 minutes).
- Reduce heat to medium-low, add 1 tablespoon of garlic butter, and stir until melted.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes and sauté for about 1 minute until softened.
- Toss in spinach and sauté for an additional minute until wilted.
- Serve hot, sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 382
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg