Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet (Print Version)
One-pan, low-carb skillet of spicy Buffalo sauce, seared chicken, sautéed veggies and creamy melted cheese.
# What You Need:
→ Meats
01 - 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 small onion, diced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 2 stalks celery, sliced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Sauces & Condiments
06 - 1/3 cup Buffalo hot sauce (ensure keto-friendly)
07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
→ Dairy
08 - 1/4 cup heavy cream
09 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
10 - 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for garnish)
→ Spices & Seasonings
11 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
14 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
# How To Make It:
01 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely.
02 - Add diced onion, bell pepper, and celery to the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until vegetables are softened.
03 - Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
04 - Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet. Add chicken pieces in a single layer. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sear, turning occasionally, until the chicken is evenly browned on all sides, approximately 5 to 6 minutes.
05 - Lower heat to medium. Redistribute vegetables evenly around the chicken and pour in Buffalo hot sauce. Stir to ensure all ingredients are coated.
06 - Pour in heavy cream, mixing to create a creamy sauce. Let simmer for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.
07 - Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the skillet contents. Cover the skillet and let sit for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
08 - Remove the lid and garnish with crumbled blue cheese and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
# Handy Tips:
01 -
- Mixing the creamy and spicy Buffalo flavors together in one skillet makes this feel like a treat, but it's actually simple to pull off.
- The low carb count keeps things light, and cleanup is quick so you can relax after dinner.
02 -
- If you rush the browning step with the chicken, you'll lose those delicious caramelized bites at the bottom of the pan.
- I discovered that adding the heavy cream before lowering the heat can make the sauce separate instead of becoming luscious and smooth.
03 -
- Letting the chicken rest for a minute before serving keeps it extra juicy on your plate.
- Always taste the sauce at the end – a little extra Buffalo or a pinch more salt can make everything pop.