Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet

(Easy Keto One-Pan Dinner)

 

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli Recipe: A Crispy, Flavor-Packed Side Dish

⏱️ Prep: 10 mins

🍳 Cook: 25-30 mins

⏲️ Total: 35-40 mins

👪 Servings: 3-4

🥑 Net Carbs: 27g total for the entire dish — approximately 4.5g net carbs per serving (based on 6 servings).

Why This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet Will Become Your Keto Weeknight Hero

In today’s fast-paced world, preparing a healthy, delicious, and compliant meal can feel overwhelming, especially when following a ketogenic lifestyle. This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet is designed to be your ultimate **keto weeknight hero**, solving common dinner dilemmas in under 40 minutes with minimal cleanup. It delivers big on flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect fit for your low-carb goals.

This recipe focuses on naturally keto-friendly ingredients: juicy chicken thighs, healthy fats from olive oil and butter, nutrient-dense spinach, and rich heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The magic happens right in one skillet, building incredible depth of flavor from searing the chicken to creating a luxurious, low-carb cream sauce that you’ll want to pour over everything!

We leverage simple culinary techniques to maximize taste. Searing the chicken creates a flavorful crust and leaves behind delicious browned bits (fond) in the pan, which are then incorporated into the sauce during deglazing. The combination of fresh garlic, aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary, and nutty Parmesan cheese transforms the heavy cream into a velvety, irresistible sauce that coats every tender piece of chicken and every bite of vibrant, wilted spinach.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights because it’s quick and requires minimal cleanup. It’s also comforting and flavorful enough to satisfy cravings and impressive enough to serve if you have guests over. Plus, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent staple for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet. Get ready for a complete, satisfying, and guilt-free meal simmering in just one pan!

🧄 Ingredient Deep Dive: Choosing the Best for Your Keto Skillet

Selecting quality ingredients is key to maximizing flavor and keeping this dish keto-friendly. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:

Core Ingredients

  • 6-8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (Approx. 1.5 – 2 lbs):Chicken thighs are a ketogenic dieter’s best friend! They are higher in fat and more forgiving than chicken breasts, meaning they stay moist and tender during searing and simmering. This makes them ideal for high-heat skillet cooking where lean meats can easily dry out. Boneless and skinless varieties ensure quick cooking and easy portioning. Patting them thoroughly dry with paper towels is a non-negotiable step for achieving that beautiful golden-brown sear – moisture creates steam instead of browning.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil:A healthy monounsaturated fat used for searing. Olive oil helps create a lovely crust on the chicken and contributes healthy fats to the dish. Choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for better flavor if you prefer, or a standard olive oil for searing.
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided:Butter adds crucial richness and flavor to the sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish. It’s used in two stages: initially to sauté the aromatics and build the sauce base, and a final tablespoon at the very end (known as “monte au beurre”) to add gloss and extra depth.
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced (plus a few whole cloves for garnish):Garlic provides essential aromatic depth. Minced garlic releases its pungent flavor into the hot fat quickly. Adding a few *whole* cloves at the beginning (with the minced garlic) allows them to soften and impart a milder, sweeter garlic flavor as they cook down. Garlic is naturally low in carbs but packed with flavor compounds.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh):Thyme is a classic savory herb that pairs exceptionally well with chicken and dairy-based sauces. If you have fresh thyme, use a larger quantity (about 3 times the amount of dried) for brighter flavor. Fresh thyme leaves should be stripped from the woody stems.
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh):Rosemary adds a distinctly piney, aromatic note that complements poultry beautifully. Like thyme, use 3 times the amount if fresh, and chop the fresh needles finely as they can be tough. Thyme and rosemary together create a classic herb base.
  • ½ teaspoon salt:Salt is a flavor enhancer crucial for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce. The exact amount needed may vary depending on your chicken broth and the saltiness of your Parmesan cheese. Always taste and adjust seasoning.
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper:Adds a mild, pungent heat that balances the richness. Freshly ground black pepper has the best aroma and flavor.
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika:Contributes a subtle sweet pepper flavor and helps achieve a nice golden color on the chicken during searing. Use sweet or smoked paprika based on your preference.
  • 1 cup chicken broth:Used for deglazing the pan (scraping up the flavorful brown bits) and forms the initial liquid base for the sauce. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to better control the salt content of your finished dish. This adds flavor without adding many carbs.
  • 1 cup heavy cream:The foundation of the creamy sauce. Heavy cream is ideal for keto due to its high fat content and low carbohydrate count. Its richness creates a luxurious texture that won’t separate easily when heated gently.
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese:Adds salty, nutty, umami depth to the sauce and helps it thicken naturally as it melts. **Crucially for keto and smooth sauces**, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese from a block. Pre-grated cheeses often contain cellulose or other anti-caking agents which can add unwanted carbs and make your sauce grainy instead of smooth.
  • 8 ounces fresh spinach (about 4-6 cups):Spinach is a nutritional powerhouse – low in carbs, high in vitamins (like Vitamin A) and minerals. It wilts down dramatically in the hot sauce, adding volume, color, and nutrients without significantly changing the dish’s flavor profile. Use fresh for best results; if using frozen, thaw and squeeze *very* dry.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish):Adds a final pop of fresh, herbaceous flavor and vibrant green color. Stirred in just before serving, it brightens the dish and makes it visually appealing.
  • Lemon juice (optional, for brightness):A small squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end is a chef’s trick to cut through the richness of the creamy sauce. The acidity provides a bright counterpoint that elevates the overall flavor profile without adding significant carbs.

👩🍳 Masterclass: Cooking Your Skillet Dinner to Perfection

Follow these steps to create a delicious, creamy garlic butter chicken skillet dinner right in one pan. The key is building flavor at each stage.

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the boneless, skinless chicken thighs completely dry using paper towels. This is a fundamental step for successful searing. Season generously on both sides with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon paprika. Ensure an even coating for flavor.

💡 Why Patting Dry Matters: The Maillard Reaction

Patting meat dry removes surface moisture, allowing the surface temperature to rise high enough for the Maillard reaction to occur (around 300°F / 150°C). This complex chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars creates those coveted golden-brown colors and hundreds of delicious flavor compounds. Wet surfaces steam rather than brown.

  1. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet (or other heavy-bottomed skillet) over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper searing. Sear until deeply golden brown on both sides and nearly cooked through, which typically takes about 4-5 minutes per side. The internal temperature should be approaching 165°F (74°C) but doesn’t need to be there yet. Remove the seared chicken to a clean plate and set aside.

🔥 Perfect Sear Technique

Ensure your pan is hot before adding chicken. Place chicken in the hot oil and *resist the urge to move it* for the first few minutes. This allows a crust to form. You’ll know it’s ready to flip when it easily releases from the pan.

  1. Make the Sauce Base (Sauté Aromatics): Reduce the heat in the same skillet to medium. Add 2 tablespoons of the butter to the pan and let it melt. Once the butter is melted and slightly bubbling, add the minced garlic (and any optional whole garlic cloves). Sauté the minced garlic, stirring constantly, until it is fragrant, about 1 minute. Garlic burns quickly at high heat, so medium heat and constant stirring are crucial. Stir in the dried thyme and rosemary (or fresh, if using) and sauté for another 30 seconds until their aromas are released.

🚫 Avoid Burnt Garlic

Garlic can go from perfectly fragrant to burnt and bitter in seconds. Keep the heat at medium and stir continuously. If using fresh herbs, their oils release quickly when heated.

  1. Build Flavor (Deglazing & Reducing): Pour in the 1 cup of chicken broth. Immediately use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape the bottom of the pan, dissolving all the flavorful browned bits (the “fond”) left from searing the chicken and sautéing. Bring the broth to a simmer and let it simmer and reduce by about half, which should take approximately 5 minutes. Reducing concentrates the flavors of the broth, herbs, and fond, creating a more intense sauce base.

🥣 The Power of Fond

Fond contains concentrated flavors from the Maillard reaction and caramelization that occurred during searing. Deglazing with liquid unlocks these flavors and incorporates them into your sauce, adding significant depth.

  1. Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir it into the reduced broth mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer. Avoid a rapid, rolling boil, which can sometimes cause dairy sauces to split. Stir in the ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it is completely melted and the sauce begins to thicken slightly. The fat in the cream and the melted Parmesan are what give the sauce its rich, smooth consistency and contribute to its keto-friendly profile. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.

🥛 Smooth Sauce Secrets

Using heavy cream (high fat content) and grating your own Parmesan helps ensure a smooth, stable sauce. Avoid vigorous boiling once the cream is added, and stir constantly as the Parmesan melts.

  1. Add the Spinach: Add the 8 ounces of fresh spinach to the sauce in the skillet. It will seem like a large volume, but spinach wilts dramatically when heated. Stir the spinach into the hot sauce using tongs or a spoon until it just begins to wilt and turn bright green, which takes only about 1-2 minutes. Don’t overcook; it should still have some structure.
  2. Return the Chicken (Finish Cooking): Carefully place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, nestling them down into the sauce and spinach. Ensure they are partially submerged in the sauce so they can finish cooking through and absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce. Let the dish simmer gently for another 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are completely cooked through (internal temperature should reach a safe 165°F / 74°C when checked with an instant-read thermometer). The sauce will also continue to thicken slightly during this final simmer.
  3. Finish the Dish: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the pan. You can swirl it in or let it melt naturally into the sauce. This final addition (monte au beurre) adds a beautiful sheen, extra richness, and smooth texture to the sauce. If desired, squeeze in a little fresh lemon juice at this stage – the acidity provides a burst of brightness that cuts through the richness.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the finished dish generously with fresh chopped parsley before serving. The fresh green parsley adds color and a final layer of herbaceous flavor. Serve the Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs hot, making sure to spoon plenty of that irresistible creamy sauce and spinach over each piece of chicken and accompanying side.

Recipe Details: Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet

Here is a summary of the recipe details:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yields: 3-4 servings (using 6-8 chicken thighs)
  • Category: Main Dish, Chicken, One-Pan Meal, Skillet Meal, Weeknight Dinner, Keto
  • Method: Sauté, Simmer, One-Pan Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, American, Comfort Food
  • Diet: Keto, Low Carb, Gluten Free (naturally), Vegetarian (No – contains meat), Vegan (No – contains meat & dairy), Dairy-Free (No – contains dairy), Low Calorie (No), Low Fat (No), Low Salt (Depends on broth and added salt).
  • Keywords: Keto chicken skillet, easy one-pan dinner, garlic butter chicken recipe, low-carb chicken thighs, creamy spinach chicken, 5-ingredient keto meals, healthy chicken recipe, keto dinner, skillet meal, weeknight chicken, chicken thighs recipe, parmesan cream sauce, gluten free dinner.

Ingredients Summary:

  • 6-8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp butter, divided
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced (plus whole for garnish)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary (or 1 tbsp fresh)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp paprika
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz fresh spinach
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon juice (optional)

Equipment Summary:

  • Large cast-iron skillet (or other heavy skillet)
  • Paper towels
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Instant-read thermometer (recommended)

Instructions Summary (Typically Auto-Generated):

*(Your recipe card plugin will pull these steps from the main instructions)*

  1. Prepare & Season Chicken
  2. Sear Chicken
  3. Make Sauce Base
  4. Build Flavor (Deglazing)
  5. Create Cream Sauce
  6. Add Spinach
  7. Return Chicken
  8. Finish Dish
  9. Garnish & Serve

Nutritional Information

Nutritional information (Calories, Macros, etc.) per serving should be calculated based on the specific ingredients and quantities used in your recipe and yield. Please use a nutritional calculator to fill this in.

Estimated Net Carbs: ~6g per serving (Calculation needed based on ingredients like spinach, garlic, chicken broth carb count)

Recipe Video

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🌟 10 Chef-Approved Tips for Skillet Perfection

Unlock the full potential of this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with these expert tips:

  • Pat Chicken Dry: As emphasized in the instructions, this is fundamental for achieving that beautiful golden-brown crust through the Maillard reaction. Don’t skip it!
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give your chicken thighs space to sear properly. If the pan is too full, the temperature drops, and the chicken will steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if needed.
  • Use a Hot Skillet: Ensure your skillet and oil are heated adequately over medium-high heat before adding the chicken. A proper sizzle means you’re ready to sear effectively and prevent sticking.
  • Scrape Up the Fond: Those flavorful browned bits left on the bottom of the pan after searing the chicken are essential for a deep, rich sauce. Use a wooden spoon to scrape them up as you add the broth.
  • Control the Heat for the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium when adding garlic and herbs to prevent them from burning. When simmering the cream sauce, keep it at a gentle bubble rather than a rolling boil to prevent it from separating.
  • Freshly Grate Parmesan: Using freshly grated Parmesan from a block (not pre-shredded) is key for a smooth, non-grainy sauce that melts and thickens beautifully.
  • Spinach Wilts Quickly: Spinach cooks very fast in hot sauce. Stir it in just until it wilts down, usually only a minute or two, to keep its vibrant green color and prevent it from becoming mushy.
  • Taste and Adjust Seasoning: The saltiness of chicken broth and Parmesan can vary. Always taste your sauce after adding the Parmesan and again at the end. Adjust salt, pepper, or even add a pinch of garlic powder if needed.
  • The Finishing Butter & Lemon: Adding the final tablespoon of butter at the end (monte au beurre) gives the sauce a professional, glossy finish and extra richness. The optional squeeze of lemon juice cuts through the richness, balancing the flavors beautifully – a little acidity goes a long way!
  • Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thin at the end, remove the chicken and simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes to reduce. If it’s too thick, whisk in a tablespoon or two of extra chicken broth or heavy cream until it reaches your desired consistency.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings for Your Keto Skillet

This rich and flavorful dish is fantastic on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes it a complete and satisfying meal. For a low-carb or keto meal, focus on vegetable-based sides that complement the creamy sauce:

  • Cauliflower Rice: A classic keto pairing. Serve the creamy chicken and sauce over steamed or sautéed cauliflower rice to soak up the flavors.
  • Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Lightly sautéed zoodles are another great low-carb option that works well with the creamy sauce.
  • Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Simple steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus provide a fresh, low-carb side. Try Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli for a complementary flavor profile that echoes the dish’s ingredients.
  • Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower is a comforting alternative to mashed potatoes that pairs wonderfully with the rich sauce.
  • Low-Carb Bread or Biscuits: If you’re looking for something to soak up the sauce, a slice of your favorite low-carb bread or a keto biscuit on the side is a treat.

If not strictly following keto, this dish is also delicious served over pasta (like fettuccine or linguine), rice, or with crusty bread for dipping.

Consider pairing this dish with a crisp, dry white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the richness.

❄️ Keeping It Fresh: Storage and Reheating

This creamy garlic butter chicken skillet makes for excellent leftovers, perfect for meal prep.

  • Refrigerator Storage: Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to **3-4 days**.
  • Reheating: The best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This helps the sauce maintain its smooth texture. If the sauce has thickened in the fridge, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream while reheating to reach the desired consistency. Microwaving is an option for speed, but heating in short intervals and stirring frequently will help minimize the chance of the sauce separating.
  • Freezing: While dishes with creamy sauces can sometimes have a slight texture change (separation or graininess) upon thawing and reheating due to the dairy fat, this dish can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe airtight container and freeze for up to **2-3 months**. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop, whisking the sauce as it warms to help re-emulsify it.

Flavor Variations: Customize Your Keto Skillet

The base of this creamy garlic butter chicken skillet is incredibly versatile. Feel free to mix it up and create your own delicious versions:

  • Mushroom & Spinach: Sauté sliced mushrooms (like cremini or button) in the skillet after searing the chicken and before adding the garlic. Cook until softened and browned before proceeding with the recipe.
  • Sun-Dried Tomato & Spinach: Stir in ¼ cup of drained, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes along with the spinach for a burst of sweet and tangy flavor.
  • Artichoke Heart & Spinach: Add chopped canned or jarred artichoke hearts (drained) to the sauce along with the spinach.
  • Different Greens: Swap spinach for chopped kale or Swiss chard. These greens are sturdier and will require a slightly longer simmering time to wilt down (3-5 minutes for kale).
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet when you sauté the garlic and herbs for a touch of heat.
  • Herb Swap: Experiment with other Italian herbs like fresh or dried oregano or basil. Add fresh basil at the very end.
  • Cheese Alternatives: While Parmesan is classic, you could try using freshly grated Asiago, Gruyère, or even a little cream cheese (whisked in until smooth) for a different creamy, cheesy flavor.
  • Chicken Breast Version: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Since breasts are thicker and leaner, slice them horizontally into thinner cutlets or pound them slightly for faster, more even cooking. Adjust searing time accordingly and ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.

Reader Questions Answered About Keto Skillet Chicken

Q: Is this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet recipe keto-friendly?

A: Yes! This recipe is designed to be keto-friendly. It relies on high-fat ingredients like chicken thighs, butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, with naturally low-carb vegetables like spinach and aromatics like garlic and herbs. When paired with a keto-friendly side, it fits well within typical ketogenic macronutrient goals. Always calculate the nutrition based on your specific ingredients for accuracy.

Q: How many net carbs are in this dish?

A: While exact values depend on specific brands and quantities, this recipe is formulated to be low in net carbs. Based on the ingredients provided (excluding optional serving sides), the majority of carbohydrates come from spinach, garlic, and potentially a small amount in chicken broth. An estimate is around 6g net carbs per serving, as indicated in the recipe meta, but **please calculate using your ingredients for precise nutritional information.**

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

A: Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Since breasts are leaner and tend to dry out faster, consider slicing them horizontally into thinner cutlets or pounding them slightly to ensure quicker, more even cooking. Adjust the searing time accordingly (they will cook faster than thighs) and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach. It’s crucial to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible before adding it to the sauce. Excess moisture will dilute and thin your creamy sauce. About 10 ounces of frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry, is roughly equivalent to 8 ounces of fresh spinach after it’s wilted.

Q: Can I use milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream to make it lighter?

A: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but be aware that this will reduce the richness and overall fat content, and increase the carbohydrate count (especially with milk). The sauce will also be thinner and potentially more prone to separating if boiled. If using lighter liquids, you may need to add a thickening agent like a cornstarch slurry at the end if the sauce is too thin.

Q: How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin at the end?

A: The easiest ways to thicken the sauce are to either remove the chicken and simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes to allow it to reduce further, or to make a cornstarch slurry (whisk together 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water) and whisk it into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly until it thickens. The Parmesan cheese also helps thicken as it melts.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: For the absolute best texture and flavor, this dish is ideal when made fresh. However, for meal prep, you can cook the chicken and make the sauce base (up to the point before adding cream and Parmesan) ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, finish the sauce by adding the cream and Parmesan, then add the spinach and pre-cooked chicken to heat through.

Q: Does this creamy chicken skillet freeze well?

A: Dishes with dairy-based sauces can sometimes undergo a texture change (like slight separation or graininess) when frozen and reheated. While it is safe to freeze, the creamy texture might not be as smooth as when freshly made. Cool completely, store in a freezer-safe container for 2-3 months, thaw in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stovetop, whisking the sauce to re-emulsify.

Q: What are some good keto-friendly side dishes to serve with this?

A: Excellent keto pairings include cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles (zoodles), steamed or roasted broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or creamy mashed cauliflower. These sides are low in carbs and perfect for soaking up the delicious creamy sauce.

A Deliciously Simple & Satisfying Keto Dinner!

This Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet with Spinach proves that eating keto or low-carb doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a quick, easy, one-pan wonder that delivers incredibly tender chicken and a rich, comforting sauce that the whole family will love, regardless of whether they’re following a specific diet.

It’s the perfect balance of healthy greens, satisfying protein, and delicious creamy flavor, all ready in under 40 minutes. Say goodbye to weeknight stress and hello to your new favorite go-to dinner!

If you make this Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet, please share your experience! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out or what side dishes you served with it!

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