Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet

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by Amelia

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Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet

Our Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet is a delightful and easy dish that brings together the bold flavors of buffalo sauce and creamy cheese in a quick one-pan meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to impress with its robust taste and satisfying texture. The combination of chicken, turkey bacon, and ranch seasoning makes it not only flavorful but also a great choice for those looking to enjoy a low-carb meal without compromising on taste.

Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a fast weeknight dinner.
  • Flavor Explosion: The blend of buffalo sauce and creamy cheese creates an irresistible flavor combination that will have everyone coming back for more.
  • Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course, or pair it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
  • Low-Carb Delight: With only 3 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this dish fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your delicious creation!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make the preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Colander
  • Whisk
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

  • Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning, making it crucial for achieving that golden crispy chicken.
  • Colander: Using a colander helps drain excess grease easily, keeping the dish light and healthy.
  • Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining ingredients smoothly, especially when melting cream cheese and butter.
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Ingredients

For the Skillet Dish

  • 12oz chicken breast, diced
  • 4 slices Turkey Bacon, diced
  • 1 tablespoon Ranch Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoon butter
  • 4 tablespoon cream cheese
  • ½ cup almond milk (or dairy of choice)
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (separated in ½s)
  • ⅓ cup Buffalo Sauce

How to Make Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet

Step 1: Preheat the Skillet

Preheat your skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute. This step is crucial to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly.

Step 2: Cook Chicken and Turkey Bacon

  • Add the diced chicken breast, turkey bacon, and ranch seasoning to the skillet.
  • Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 3: Drain Grease

Use a colander to drain any excess grease from the skillet. Set aside the cooked chicken and turkey bacon.

Step 4: Prepare Cheese Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and return the skillet to the burner.
* Add butter, cream cheese, and almond milk.
* Whisk until everything is melted and fully combined.

Step 5: Add Cheese to Sauce

Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue whisking until melted. Gradually increase heat until bubbling; then reduce to simmer.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken and turkey bacon to the skillet. Stir everything together well.

Step 7: Finish with Buffalo Sauce

Drizzle buffalo wing sauce all over your mixture. Top with remaining cheese or parmesan.

Step 8: Simmer

Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. For an added touch, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet!

How to Serve Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet

Serving your Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet can elevate the dish and create a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this tasty meal.

With Fresh Vegetables

  • Crunchy Celery Sticks – Serve chilled celery sticks alongside for a refreshing crunch that complements the spicy flavors.
  • Sliced Cucumbers – Cool cucumber slices can help balance the heat from the buffalo sauce and add extra hydration.

Over Cauliflower Rice

  • Fluffy Cauliflower Rice – Spoon your buffalo chicken mixture over cauliflower rice for a low-carb base that absorbs all the delicious flavors.

With Avocado

  • Creamy Avocado Slices – Add fresh avocado on top for a creamy texture and healthy fats that enhance the dish’s richness.

In Lettuce Wraps

  • Crisp Romaine Lettuce Leaves – Use large lettuce leaves as wraps to create a fun, handheld version of your skillet meal, perfect for light eating.

How to Perfect Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet

To make your Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet even better, consider these helpful tips.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh chicken and high-quality cheese for the best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust Spice Levels – Feel free to modify the amount of buffalo sauce based on your preference; add more for extra heat or less for a milder taste.
  • Experiment with Cheese Varieties – Try mixing in different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor complexity.
  • Make It Ahead – Prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and refrigerate. Just reheat when ready to serve!

Best Side Dishes for Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet

Pairing side dishes with your Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

  1. Zucchini Noodles – A low-carb alternative to pasta, lightly sautéed zucchini noodles make a fantastic base for the buffalo chicken.
  2. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower – Creamy mashed cauliflower adds a comforting side while keeping carbs low; mix in garlic for extra flavor.
  3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a healthy crunch and pair well with rich dishes like this skillet.
  4. Spinach Salad – A fresh spinach salad dressed with olive oil and lemon offers a light contrast to the hearty skillet meal.
  5. Grilled Asparagus – Tender grilled asparagus spears bring out earthy flavors that complement the spiciness of buffalo chicken nicely.
  6. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Fill halved bell peppers with leftover skillet mix or other veggies for an eye-catching, nutritious side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:

  • Not Preheating the Skillet: Failing to preheat can lead to uneven cooking. Always take a minute to warm up your skillet first.
  • Overcooking the Chicken: This can make your chicken dry. Aim for a perfect internal temperature of 165°F and check regularly.
  • Skipping the Grease Drain: Not draining grease can make your dish oily. Use a colander to remove excess fat after sautéing.
  • Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheap cheese can affect the flavor and texture. Opt for high-quality cheddar for the best results.
  • Ignoring Simmer Time: Skipping simmering can prevent flavors from melding. Allow it to simmer for at least 5 minutes for a richer taste.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container.
  • Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet

  • Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
  • Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet

  • Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dish in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until hot.
  • Stovetop: Warm on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

What is a Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet?

A Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet is a quick and easy one-pan meal featuring chicken and turkey bacon cooked with creamy cheese and buffalo sauce.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if desired. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on meat type.

How spicy is the Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet?

The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce used. For milder flavor, choose a less spicy sauce or reduce the amount added.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just follow storage instructions provided above.

Is this recipe suitable for leftovers?

Yes! The flavors meld beautifully after sitting, making leftovers just as delicious as fresh!

Final Thoughts

The Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet combines ease with flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Feel free to customize by adding veggies like bell peppers or swapping out cheeses based on your preference. Give it a try and enjoy a cheesy, hearty dish that’s sure to please everyone!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet

Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet


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  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet is a quick and satisfying one-pan meal that marries the bold flavors of buffalo sauce with creamy cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With tender chicken breast and turkey bacon mingling in a rich, cheesy sauce, this dish is not only delicious but also low in carbs, making it a fantastic option for those following a keto lifestyle. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with fresh vegetables or cauliflower rice for a complete dining experience. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this comforting dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz chicken breast, diced
  • 4 slices turkey bacon, diced
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons cream cheese
  • ½ cup almond milk (or dairy of choice)
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
  • ⅓ cup buffalo sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat your skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute.
  2. Add the diced chicken, turkey bacon, and ranch seasoning to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  3. Drain excess grease using a colander and set aside the cooked mixture.
  4. In the same skillet on low heat, melt butter with cream cheese and almond milk while whisking until combined.
  5. Stir in half of the cheddar cheese until melted; increase heat to bubbling then reduce to simmer.
  6. Return the chicken and turkey bacon to the skillet, mixing well.
  7. Drizzle buffalo sauce over the top and add remaining cheese.
  8. Cover and simmer for about 5 minutes or broil briefly if desired.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 870mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 42g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg

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