Easy Keto Chicken Breast Recipes: Delicious, Low-Carb, and Simple to Make
Keto-friendly meals don’t have to be boring or complicated. Among the many options for a low-carb diet, chicken breast stands out as a versatile and protein-packed ingredient. Its lean nature makes it perfect for maintaining a ketogenic lifestyle while keeping meals flavorful and satisfying. From quick weeknight dinners to meal prep options, easy keto chicken breast recipes can fit into any schedule without sacrificing taste.
Whether you are a beginner in the keto world or a seasoned enthusiast, these recipes bring together simplicity, nutrition, and delicious flavors in a way that encourages you to stay consistent with your low-carb goals. The best part is that with a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can transform plain chicken breast into a mouthwatering, keto-approved meal that your whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a simple table of ingredients for a basic easy keto chicken breast recipe, including their approximate calorie count per serving:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast (boneless) | 2 pieces (~400g) | 440 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 15 |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | 6 |
| Salt | ½ tsp | 0 |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp | 2 |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | 4 |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 1 tbsp | 1 |
| Butter | 1 tbsp | 100 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prep the Chicken
- Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Trim any excess fat to keep the recipe lean and keto-friendly.
- Marinate
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
- Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken breasts and let them marinate for 15–30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add butter.
- Once the butter melts, add the marinated chicken breasts.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Garnish
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning to change the flavor profile.
- Herbs: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil can add a refreshing twist.
- Cheese: Sprinkle grated parmesan or mozzarella over the chicken during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a cheesy keto delight.
- Sauces: Serve with keto-friendly sauces such as garlic butter, creamy mushroom, or avocado lime dressing.
- Cooking Methods: Oven-bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes if you prefer less stovetop cooking.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 404 kcal |
| Protein | 48 g |
| Fat | 23 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Net Carbs | 1.5 g |
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of sautéed spinach or roasted broccoli for extra fiber and micronutrients.
- Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a complete keto-friendly meal.
- Add a small avocado salad on the side for added fats and flavor.
- Top with a squeeze of fresh lemon or keto-friendly sauce for a refreshing twist.
Easy Keto Chicken Breast Recipes: Delicious, Low-Carb, and Simple to Make
Course: Recipes2
servings10
minutes15
minutes404
kcalIngredients
IngredienttQuantitytCalories
Chicken breast (boneless)t2 pieces (~400g)t440
Olive oilt2 tbspt240
Garlic (minced)t3 clovest15
Paprikat1 tspt6
Saltt½ tspt0
Black peppert¼ tspt2
Lemon juicet1 tbspt4
Fresh parsley (chopped)t1 tbspt1
Buttert1 tbspt100
Directions
- Prep the Chicken: Rinse and pat dry chicken breasts. Trim any excess fat.
- Marinate: Mix olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Rub evenly on chicken and marinate for 15–30 minutes.
- Cook: Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest & Garnish: Let chicken rest 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Cooking Method: You can pan-sear, grill, or oven-bake the chicken. For oven-baking, preheat to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 20–25 minutes.
Meal Prep Friendly: Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze cooked keto chicken breast?
Yes! Cooked chicken breast can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain its flavor and texture.
2. How can I make the chicken more flavorful?
Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes with herbs, spices, and a little lemon juice enhances the taste. You can also add keto-friendly sauces or cheese during cooking for extra flavor.
3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and slightly higher in fat, which is perfect for keto. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on thickness.
4. What are some good side dishes for keto chicken breast?
Pair it with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or a small avocado salad. These options keep your meal low-carb and nutrient-rich.
5. Can I cook this recipe in the oven instead of a skillet?
Yes! Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the marinated chicken breasts for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
Easy keto chicken breast recipes prove that maintaining a low-carb lifestyle doesn’t mean compromising on taste or convenience. With a handful of simple ingredients, a quick cooking method, and customizable spices, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal that supports your ketogenic goals. Perfect for meal prep or a wholesome dinner, it’s a recipe that can be enjoyed by beginners and keto veterans alike. Whether paired with vegetables, keto-friendly grains, or fresh herbs, this versatile dish makes healthy eating enjoyable and sustainable.
