Creamy Garlic Chicken Keto

This creamy garlic chicken blends rich flavors and smooth texture into a comforting dish that fits perfectly into glutenfree and ketodiets. Juicy chicken thighs simmer in a luscious garlic and Parmesan cream sauce that feels like a treat from a cozy restaurant but comes together quickly in one pan. It’s ideal for busy evenings when you want something delicious without a complicated cleanup.

I first made this dish when I needed a quick yet elegant meal and was thrilled with how the sauce came together so effortlessly. It quickly became a favorite that I now enjoy making for family and friends when I want a fussfree dinner with wowfactor.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: cut into chunks, for juicy, tender meat that resists drying out
• Olive oil: get a nice golden sear on the chicken and add a subtle fruity flavor
• Tajín Clásico Chili Lime Seasoning: a zesty, slightly spicy kick that brightens the dish
• Salt and black pepper: enhance the natural flavors—use fine sea salt for even seasoning
• Garlic powder: deep garlicky notes that blend beautifully with fresh Parmesan
• Onion powder and dried thyme: add complexity and warmth to the seasoning mix
• Heavy cream: the base of the sauce, creating richness and a velvety texture
• Glutenfree chicken broth: loosen the sauce and pick up all the browned bits from the pan
• Grated Parmesan cheese: melt into the sauce and add savory umami flavor
• Fresh parsley: chopped finely to garnish with a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the creaminess

Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels so the seasoning will stick well. Toss the chicken thoroughly with the chili lime seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme until every piece is evenly coated. This creates a flavorful crust when you brown the chicken.

Brown the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat until it shimmers but does not smoke. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer without crowding and resist moving them for three to four minutes. This helps develop a golden crust. Then stir and continue cooking for another four minutes until the chicken is golden and nearly cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.

Build the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

Lower the heat to medium and pour the glutenfree chicken broth into the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the golden browned bits stuck to the pan—they hold intense flavor. Stir in the heavy cream and bring gently to a simmer, avoiding a hard boil which can break the cream. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and whisk continuously until it melts smoothly and thickens the sauce slightly. Taste at this stage and adjust seasoning, remembering Parmesan already adds saltiness.

Finish Cooking the Chicken in Sauce:

Return the seared chicken and any juices that collected to the skillet. Stir carefully to coat everything in the cream sauce. Let simmer on mediumlow heat for about five minutes until the chicken is cooked all the way through and the sauce clings nicely to the pieces. Check the largest piece for no pinkness and clear juices. Right before serving, scatter fresh chopped parsley for a lively herb touch.

The bold flavor from Tajín chili lime seasoning is my favorite part here—it adds a bright punch that lifts the creamy sauce and keeps the dish exciting. I remember one dinner when a guest who usually avoids spicy food loved this recipe because the heat was balanced perfectly with the garlic and cream. It always sparks happy conversations about how simple ingredients create flavors far beyond what you expect.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce may thicken when chilled, so gently reheat with a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up. This dish does not freeze particularly well because cream sauces tend to separate after thawing.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer chicken breasts, you can use them but reduce the simmering time slightly as they cook faster and risk drying out. Coconut cream is a good dairyfree alternative to heavy cream and still keeps the dish keto while adding a subtle tropical flavor that pairs well with the lime chili seasonings. For a sharper cheese flavor, Pecorino Romano or Asiago can swap in for Parmesan.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy chicken over cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal or with a side of sautéed greens like spinach or kale to add freshness and balance. A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette would contrast nicely with the richness of the sauce.

This creamy garlic chicken is quick, comforting, and perfect for weeknight dinners. It impresses with minimal effort.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used as a leaner alternative. Cut them into chunks and reduce simmering time to avoid dryness.

→ Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Absolutely, all ingredients including the seasoning and chicken broth are gluten-free to accommodate the diet.

→ What cheese can substitute Parmesan if needed?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago are excellent substitutes that melt well and complement the flavors nicely.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, replacing heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream makes the sauce dairy-free while keeping it rich and creamy.

→ How is the garlic flavor incorporated?

Garlic powder along with fresh Parmesan create a deep, savory garlic profile throughout the creamy sauce.

→ What is Tajín seasoning and its role here?

Tajín is a chili-lime seasoning that adds a bright, tangy spice, enhancing the flavor complexity of the chicken.