If you’re on the lookout for a delicious, health-conscious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, you’ve come to the right place. Our Keto Chicken with Thyme Sauce is a sublime blend of savory and aromatic herbs, packed with nutrients to complement your ketogenic lifestyle. Whether you’re a keto veteran or a newcomer, this dish will undoubtedly add zest to your dinner table while keeping your carb count in check.
Ingredients
Before embarking on your culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
Equipments
Ensure you have the following tools at your disposal:
- A heavy-duty skillet or frying pan
- A spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
How to Make Keto Chicken with Thyme Sauce – Step By Step
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Start by prepping your chicken breasts. Pat them dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This ensures that the chicken is flavorful and juicy post-cooking. Gather your minced garlic, fresh thyme, and have the chicken broth and cream measured out for ease.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 5–7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate, leaving the drippings in the pan to form a base for the sauce.
Step 3: Creating the Aromatic Base
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. Stir in the minced garlic, sautéing it until fragrant, but not browned, for about 30 seconds. This mellow garlic aroma will infuse the sauce without overpowering it.
Step 4: Making the Thyme Sauce
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the garlic. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a spatula. These bits are packed with flavor and will enhance the sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, followed by fresh thyme leaves. Let the mixture simmer gently until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, stirring occasionally. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serving the Dish
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, turning to coat them with the thyme sauce. Allow them to heat through for 1–2 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Keto Chicken with Thyme Sauce
This dish pairs beautifully with zoodles or a cauliflower mash if you’re looking to keep it low-carb. It also complements steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad, rounding out a wholesome meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Consider using high-quality chicken and fresh thyme for the best flavor. Season your chicken well, and be patient when cooking over medium-high heat to form a nice crust. Adding a splash of lemon juice before serving can enhance the freshness of the dish.
Packing a Punch: A High Protein Twist
For those looking to adapt this meal into a high-protein powerhouse, consider adding sliced mushrooms or spinach into the thyme sauce. You could also serve it alongside a protein-rich quinoa or lentil salad for an extra boost.
Low Carb Delight: Making the Dish Even Lighter
This recipe is naturally low-carb, making it ideal for keto enthusiasts. However, you can reduce the cream to half and add more chicken broth to make a lighter sauce that’s just as delightful. Use more greens like asparagus or kale to increase the nutritional content further.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the sauce’s creaminess. Unfortunately, due to the dairy content, this dish does not freeze well.
FAQs
- Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh? Yes, but use half the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated.
- Is it possible to substitute heavy cream? You can use coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Can I grill the chicken instead? Certainly! Grilling adds a smoky flavor that works beautifully with this sauce.
- Can I freeze this dish? It’s best not to freeze due to the cream sauce, which can separate upon thawing.
Wrap Up: Share Your Keto Creation!
This Keto Chicken with Thyme Sauce recipe is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy a hearty meal while staying true to your dietary preferences. Don’t forget to share your experiences or any twists you implement in the comments below. Feel free to spread the love by sharing this recipe with friends and family who are also on the keto journey!
Keto Chicken with Thyme Sauce
Equipment
- Skillet
- – Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts skinless, boneless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by seasoning both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook the chicken breasts until golden brown on each side.
- Add butter and minced garlic to the same skillet, sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth, use a spatula to deglaze the pan.
- Stir in heavy cream and fresh thyme, simmer until sauce thickens.
- Return chicken to the skillet, coat with sauce and heat through before serving.