Low carb creamy pesto chicken is a fantastic dish that elevates simple chicken breasts into something special. To start, you'll need skinless chicken breasts, pesto, heavy cream, and seasonings. Cook the seasoned chicken in olive oil until it's fully cooked. In the same skillet, whip up a creamy pesto sauce using your favorite pesto and cream. Return the chicken to the skillet to soak up all those flavors. This dish is not only tasty, with just 6 grams of carbs per serving, but it's also rich and comforting. Keep exploring to discover tips and variations that will take your dish to the next level!
Ingredients Needed
Low Carb Creamy Pesto Chicken is a delightful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious, homemade creamy pesto sauce. This dish not only delights the palate with its vibrant flavors of fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan but also keeps your carb intake low, making it a perfect option for those following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle. The combination of creamy richness and aromatic herbs offers a comforting yet elegant meal that can easily be prepared for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredient List
- 2-4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
- 1 cup homemade or store-bought pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream (or a dairy-free cream alternative)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- Optional: Fresh basil for garnish
Pro Cooking Tips
- Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.
- Season Generously: Don't skip seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the flavor of the meat.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and homemade pesto elevate the dish's flavor significantly compared to store-bought options.
- Control the Heat: Cook the chicken on medium heat to avoid burning the outside while ensuring the inside is cooked through.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, let the creamy pesto simmer for a few minutes after adding the cream.
- Pair with Vegetables: Serve the chicken with sautéed zucchini or spiralized vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Serving Size | Calories | Fat (g) | Carbohydrates (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 serving (1 chicken breast with sauce) | 450 | 30 | 6 | 38 |
Additional Nutritional Notes: Each serving is rich in protein and healthy fats while keeping carbohydrates low, making it an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. The use of heavy cream adds richness, but for a lighter option, consider using a low-fat cream alternative or unsweetened coconut cream.
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the heavy cream. Stir in the pesto until well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy pesto sauce over the top. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve: Plate the chicken, drizzling extra sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts into the creamy pesto sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in shredded mozzarella or crumbled feta cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy pesto for some heat.
Enjoy this Low Carb Creamy Pesto Chicken as a delightful addition to your meal rotation, offering both flavor and health benefits in every bite!
Conclusion
This low carb creamy pesto chicken is a delicious and easy dish you can whip up any night of the week. With its rich flavors and simple ingredients, it's sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle! So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy a satisfying meal that's both healthy and indulgent. You won't be disappointed with this tasty twist on chicken!
