This 30 minute, creamy, Keto Parmesan Chicken is a tender, golden-brown chicken swimming in a velvety parmesan cream sauce that’s so good, you’ll want to lick the plate clean. This restaurant-worthy dish comes together in just half an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something spectacular without spending hours in the kitchen.
The magic happens when the chicken drippings meld with the rich cream sauce, creating layers of flavor that taste like they took hours to develop. As the sauce simmers, it fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma of garlic, onion, and parmesan that will have everyone asking “Is dinner ready yet?”
This recipe takes inspiration from classic Italian-American cuisine, where simple ingredients transform into something extraordinary. While it tastes indulgent, you can balance it out by serving it over zucchini noodles or alongside roasted vegetables. For a perfect pairing, open a bottle of crisp Pinot Grigio – its bright acidity will beautifully cut through the richness of the cream sauce.
30 Minute Creamy Keto Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
Pinch of Herbs de Provence
1/2 cup water mixed with two teaspoons chicken bouillon
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated parmesan
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced (optional garnish)
Special Equipment:
Large, deep skillet
Meat thermometer
Instructions:
1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle evenly with onion powder and garlic powder.
2. Heat butter in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Once melted and bubbling, add the chicken and cook until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes on the first side, depending on thickness.
3. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until cooked through. The chicken is done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F.
4. Transfer the chicken to a plate and tent with aluminum foil to keep warm.
5. Pour the bouillon mixture into the skillet, adding a pinch of pinch of Herbs de Provence, and simmer until reduced by half, about 2-3 minutes, scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate all those flavorful browned bits into the sauce.
6. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Simmer until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Add the parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated.
7. Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the pan. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the chicken to coat it well.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Note: The sauce will continue to thicken as it stands. If it becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of chicken broth or cream.
Chef’s Tip
For an elevated twist, finish the sauce with a splash of dry white wine just before adding the cream. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a complex depth of flavor that takes this dish from delicious to extraordinary. For the best results, use a wine you’d actually drink – a good Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio works beautifully.
Gluten-Free Guidance
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always verify the following ingredients:
- Chicken bouillon (some brands may contain gluten as a binder)
- Garlic and onion powder (while naturally gluten-free, cross-contamination can occur during processing)
- Grated parmesan (pre-grated cheese may contain anti-caking agents with gluten)
Gluten-Free options are provided as a resource only. Always check your product labeling or contact the manufacturer of ingredients you are using. If there is not a gluten-free or GF on the label of the product packaging, read the ingredients label thoroughly. Check for hidden or questionable ingredients. Some ingredients may contain hidden gluten.
Additional Notes
- Make ahead: The sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead and reheated gently
- Storage: Keeps well in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the sauce’s consistency
- Freezing: Not recommended as cream-based sauces can separate when thawed
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Information (per serving, serves 4)
Calories: 520
Fat: 42g
Saturated Fat: 24g
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 680mg
Cholesterol: 195mg
Estimated cost per serving: $3.75
Total recipe cost: $15.00
Nutritional info is an estimate and provided as a courtesy. Values may vary according to the ingredients and tools used. Please use your preferred nutritional calculator for more detailed info.
Other Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment Used: Large skillet, meat thermometer, measuring cups and spoons
Difficulty Level: Easy
Serving Size: 1-2 chicken thighs with sauce
In Conclusion, 30 Minute Creamy Keto Parmesan Chicken
This versatile chicken dish proves that extraordinary meals don’t require complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of everyday ingredients and proper attention to temperature control, you can create a restaurant-quality dinner that’s perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions. The key to success lies in not rushing the sauce reduction process and using quality ingredients where it matters most – particularly in the cream and cheese.
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