One Pan Keto Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe: Low-Carb Delight

One Pan Keto Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe

There’s something magical about a one-pan recipe. Less cleanup, more flavor, and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve whipped up a meal that’s as delicious as it is hassle-free. Enter One Pan Keto Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken—a creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food without compromising your keto goals. This recipe packs a punch of flavor, combining tender chicken, gooey cheese, and the zesty kick of jalapeños.

Not only is this dish incredibly satisfying, but it also brings together simple ingredients that you likely already have in your keto pantry. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—even those who aren’t following a keto lifestyle will rave about it! So grab your skillet, and let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe.

Ingredients for One Pan Keto Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to create this dish:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese (softened)
• 2 medium jalapeños (sliced thinly; adjust to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped)
• Extra sliced jalapeños

Instructions: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. After using paper towels to pat dry, sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoky paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder on both sides. 
2. Add the olive oil to a large skillet and heat it over medium heat.
3. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. After taking the chicken out of the skillet, place it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Jalapeños

1. In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter.
2. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sliced jalapeños. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and slightly softened.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well to combine.
2. Add the cream cheese to the skillet and whisk until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
3. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

1. After cooking, place the chicken breasts back in the skillet and nestle them into the sauce.
2. Spoon the creamy jalapeño sauce over the chicken to coat.
3. Cover the skillet and let the dish simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley and additional jalapeño slices if desired.
2. Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, spicy delight!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
• Calories: 420
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Net Carbs: 3g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Keto Notes and Benefits

1. Low-Carb Hero: With only 3g net carbs per serving, this dish fits perfectly into your daily keto macros.
2. High in Healthy Fats: The heavy cream and cheese provide plenty of fat to keep you feeling full and energized.
3. Protein-Packed: Each serving delivers a generous amount of protein to support muscle repair and satiety.
4. Versatile Veggie: Jalapeños are not only low in carbs but also packed with antioxidants like vitamin C.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re not a fan of heat, swap out the jalapeños for milder peppers or use fewer slices. Add some red chilli flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an added heat.
• Cheese Options: While cheddar works beautifully, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Make It a Casserole: Transfer everything to an oven-safe dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Common FAQs

1. Is it possible to substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work just as well in this recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens.

3. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes! Let cool fully, then divide into separate parts and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a fresh side salad for a complete keto meal.

Conclusion

There you have it—One Pan Keto Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken, a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned keto enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the lifestyle, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your weekly rotation. The combination of creamy cheese, spicy jalapeños, and tender chicken will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Try this recipe tonight, and let the flavors wow you! Don’t forget to experiment with the tips and variations to make it your own. Happy cooking! 🌟