Keto Bacon Chicken Thighs with Garlic Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the savory flavors of crispy bacon and tender chicken thighs. This recipe embodies the essence of comfort food, all while keeping it keto-friendly. Rich and creamy, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress anyone at your dining table.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 550 calories
- Protein: 38 grams
- Carbohydrates: 4 grams
- Fat: 44 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Sodium: 700 mg
Why Make This Keto Bacon Chicken Thighs With Garlic Cream Sauce
This recipe showcases why keto dishes can be indulgent and satisfying without cutting out flavor. The crispy bacon adds a depth of umami, while the creamy garlic sauce brings a luscious texture that pairs wonderfully with the juicy chicken thighs. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a delicious dinner, this dish hits all the right notes. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight family meal or a cozy weekend gathering.
How to Make Keto Bacon Chicken Thighs With Garlic Cream Sauce
This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps but packs a ton of flavor. Here’s how you can create this delectable meal:
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
- 4 slices of bacon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Step 1: Bacon Preparation
In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the delicious drippings in the skillet.
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Step 2: Chicken Searing
Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, add olive oil if needed and sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until they reach a beautiful golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes. Flip and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
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Step 3: Garlic Sautéing
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Step 4: Sauce Finishing
Pour in the heavy cream and add the Italian seasoning. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, then crumble the cooked bacon into the sauce. Return the chicken thighs to the pan and heat for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Keto Bacon Chicken Thighs With Garlic Cream Sauce
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed veggies, cauliflower rice, or a simple green salad. The creamy sauce is perfect for drizzling over any side to add extra flavor. Serve this meal for a family dinner or impress your friends during a special occasion – it’s sure to be a hit!
How to Store Keto Bacon Chicken Thighs With Garlic Cream Sauce
After enjoying leftovers, store any uneaten chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the creaminess of the sauce. This dish is not recommended for freezing due to the cream sauce, which may separate upon thawing.
Expert Tips for Perfect Keto Bacon Chicken Thighs With Garlic Cream Sauce
- Choosing Chicken Thighs: Opt for bone-in, skin-on thighs for maximum flavor; they remain juicy during cooking.
- Bacon Fat: Save the bacon drippings, as they enhance the cooking process and add even more flavor to the chicken.
- Cream Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer; just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic for the best taste, but pre-minced or garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like fresh thyme or rosemary for additional flavor profiles.
Delicious Variations
- Mushroom Addition: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.
- Cheesy Sauce: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese when finishing the sauce for an extra creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts may dry out more quickly. Adjust cooking time accordingly, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F. -
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter option, you can use coconut cream or a combination of Greek yogurt and chicken broth, keeping in mind the flavor will change slightly. -
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be reheated, making it great for meal prepping. -
How can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative available in stores. -
What can I use instead of Italian seasoning?
You can create your own blend with herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme or use any seasoning you enjoy.
Conclusion
Keto Bacon Chicken Thighs with Garlic Cream Sauce is a dish that brings people together around the dinner table, filled with flavor and satisfaction. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough for entertaining. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting started, this recipe invites you to indulge in the rich tastes of bacon and creamy garlic sauce. Don’t hesitate to give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Keto Bacon Chicken Thighs with Garlic Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Keto
Description
A delightful keto-friendly dish that combines crispy bacon with tender chicken thighs in a rich garlic cream sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
- 4 slices of bacon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, keeping the drippings in the skillet.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, add olive oil if needed and sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and add Italian seasoning. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, then crumble the cooked bacon into the sauce. Return chicken thighs to the pan and heat for another 2-3 minutes to meld flavors together. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken for maximum flavor and juiciness. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 44g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
