Keto Chicken & Broccoli Skillet: A Quick, Low-Carb One-Pan Wonder

Looking for a simple, nutritious, and satisfying meal that fits your ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle? Keto Chicken & Broccoli Skillet is here to save the day. This one-pan dish combines tender chicken, crisp-tender broccoli, and a rich, savory sauce for a comforting yet healthy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a cozy dinner for two, this skillet recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious.

In this article, we’ll guide you through making this flavorful dish, discuss its nutritional benefits, and provide tips for customization to suit your taste preferences. Let’s dive into the world of keto-friendly cooking!

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Why Choose Keto Chicken & Broccoli Skillet?

Traditional skillet meals often rely on starchy sides like rice or potatoes, which can spike blood sugar and derail ketosis. By focusing on high-protein chicken, fiber-rich broccoli, and a creamy, flavorful sauce, this dish delivers all the comfort of a home-cooked meal without the carbs. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

Benefits of Keto Chicken & Broccoli Skillet:

• Low in Carbs: Uses broccoli and a cream-based sauce instead of starchy sides.
• High in Protein: Chicken breast or thighs provide a hearty dose of protein.
• Packed with Nutrients: Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

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Ingredients Breakdown

To create Keto Chicken & Broccoli Skillet , let’s break down the key components:

1. Chicken

The star ingredient provides lean protein and flavor:

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
• Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for extra depth.

2. Broccoli

This cruciferous vegetable adds fiber and nutrients:

• Fresh broccoli florets work best, but frozen broccoli can be used if thawed and drained.
• Sauté until crisp-tender to retain texture and nutrients.

3. Sauce

A creamy, savory sauce ties everything together:

• Heavy cream or coconut milk provides richness.
• Chicken broth adds depth and prevents the sauce from being too heavy.
• Garlic and Parmesan cheese enhance the flavor profile.

4. Optional Add-Ins

Enhance the dish with additional ingredients:

• Red pepper flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick.
• Mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.
• Bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.

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Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Here’s a detailed guide to creating Keto Chicken & Broccoli Skillet that will leave you craving more.

Servings: 4 people

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Red pepper flakes or fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Wash and chop the broccoli into florets.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Broccoli:
   • In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil or butter.
   • Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften but remain crisp-tender.
4. Make the Sauce:
   • Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine Everything:
   • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
   • Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Pair with cauliflower rice or enjoy as-is for a complete meal.

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Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~350-400
• Total Carbs: ~8g (Net Carbs: ~6g)
• Protein: ~35g
• Fat: ~22g
• Fiber: ~2g

This makes Keto Chicken & Broccoli Skillet a satisfying, low-carb meal that fits perfectly within a ketogenic or low-carb diet.

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Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Sauté just until crisp-tender to retain texture and nutrients.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Adjust Creaminess: Add more heavy cream or chicken broth if you prefer a thinner sauce.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

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Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some ideas to tailor it to your liking:

• Add Veggies: Include mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure all packaged ingredients (like broth) are certified gluten-free if needed.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and omit Parmesan or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

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Final Thoughts

Keto Chicken & Broccoli Skillet is the ultimate solution for enjoying a comforting, nutrient-packed meal without derailing your low-carb lifestyle. With its tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy sauce, this dish satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re serving it as a main course, pairing it with cauliflower rice, or enjoying it straight from the skillet, this recipe delivers big flavor in every bite.

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, feeding your family, or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing taste. Plus, its adaptability ensures that everyone—regardless of dietary preferences—can enjoy a serving.

So grab your skillet, fire up your stove, and get ready to indulge in a dish that’s as comforting as it is nutritious. Trust us—once you try this Keto Chicken & Broccoli Skillet, it’ll become a regular in your recipe rotation!

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