Creamy Baked Chicken Breasts
Introduction:
Indulge in the delectable world of keto-friendly cuisine with our Creamy Baked Chicken Breasts recipe. This savory delight combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a luscious, creamy sauce that's both satisfying and carb-conscious.
Perfect for those seeking a low-carb, high-flavor meal, this dish promises to tantalize your taste buds while keeping you on track with your ketogenic lifestyle. Elevate your dinner game with this simple, yet elegant recipe that's sure to become a household favorite.
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 2
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and add the dried thyme. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
7. Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the Parmesan cheese and cream cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce.
9. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
10. Once done, remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish the chicken with chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.
11. Serve the creamy baked chicken breasts hot, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the top.
This keto-friendly creamy baked chicken dish is rich, flavorful, and low in carbohydrates, making it perfect for those following a keto diet.
Enjoy your meal!
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 400-450 calories
- Total Fat: 30-35g
- Saturated Fat: 15-18g
- Carbohydrates: 4-6g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1-2g
- Protein: 30-35g
Please note that these values can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients you use. It's always a good idea to calculate the exact nutritional facts based on the ingredients you have on hand for the most accurate information.
Grocery List:
Proteins:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Dairy and Dairy Substitutes:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or almond milk)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
Produce:
- 2 cloves garlic
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional keto-friendly side vegetables (e.g., spinach, asparagus, cauliflower for side dishes)
Pantry Staples:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Spices and Seasonings (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper)
Miscellaneous:
- Chicken broth (for the creamy sauce)
- Optional ingredients for variations (e.g., grated Parmesan cheese, crispy bacon bits)
Please note that the specific quantities may vary depending on your preferences and the number of servings you intend to prepare. Adjust the quantities as needed based on your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q1. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?
A1: Yes, bone-in chicken breasts can be used. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q2. Can I substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative?
A2: Absolutely! You can use coconut cream or almond milk as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream. Just be aware that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the sauce.
Q3. What side dishes pair well with this creamy baked chicken?
A3: This dish goes wonderfully with keto-friendly sides like sautéed spinach, roasted asparagus, or cauliflower rice. These options complement the creamy sauce perfectly.
Q4. How can I prevent the chicken breasts from drying out?
A4: To prevent the chicken breasts from drying out, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and remove them from the oven once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q5. Are there any creative variations I can try with this recipe?
A5: Absolutely! You can experiment with additional ingredients such as grated Parmesan cheese or crispy bacon bits to add extra flavor to the sauce.
Q6. Can I make this recipe if I don't have an ovenproof skillet?
A6: Yes, you can! If you don't have an ovenproof skillet, you can transfer the chicken and sauce to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.
Q7. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A7: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's fully cooked and safe to eat.
Q8. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep or reheating leftovers?
A8: Yes, this recipe is suitable for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Q9. Can I adjust the level of spices and seasonings to my taste?
A9: Certainly! Feel free to adjust the amount of spices and seasonings to suit your personal taste preferences. Start with the recommended amounts and add more if desired.
Q10. Is this recipe gluten-free as well as keto-friendly?
A10: Yes, this recipe is both gluten-free and keto-friendly, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Enjoy your creamy baked chicken breasts and don't hesitate to customize the recipe to your liking!
Notes and Tips:
To prevent the chicken breasts from drying out, make sure not to overcook them. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
If you want to add some extra flavor, consider incorporating grated Parmesan cheese or crispy bacon bits into the sauce.
Feel free to adjust the level of spices and seasonings to suit your personal taste preferences.
If you don't have an ovenproof skillet, you can transfer the chicken and sauce to a baking dish before placing it in the oven.
Conclusion:
Indulging in a ketogenic lifestyle doesn't mean sacrificing flavor, and our Creamy Baked Chicken Breasts recipe is proof of that. With its rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, this dish is not only a taste sensation but also a low-carb, high-protein option that supports your health goals. From its succulent texture to its satisfying taste, this recipe exemplifies how eating keto can be both delicious and nutritious. So, treat yourself to a mouthwatering meal that's as good for your taste buds as it is for your well-being. Your journey to a healthier you starts here!
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