Looking for an easy, cheesy, and spicy keto-friendly dish? Our Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet is the perfect solution. This one-pan recipe is full of tender chicken breast, crispy bacon, rich cream cheese, and a tangy buffalo sauce, creating a creamy, flavorful meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share, this skillet is bound to become a family favorite.
The appeal of the Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet lies in its simplicity. Not only is it low-carb and packed with protein, but it’s also a quick recipe that can be prepared with minimal fuss. The creamy buffalo sauce and crispy bacon give this dish a perfect balance of spice and savory flavors, making it an irresistible meal option for those on a keto diet. Plus, it’s made in a single skillet, which means less cleanup!
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Why This Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet Is So Great
The Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet offers many advantages for those looking for an easy and delicious low-carb meal. It’s quick, easy to prepare, and loaded with flavors you’ll love. This recipe features protein-packed chicken breast and crispy bacon, two ingredients that are staples in keto cooking. Combined with a creamy buffalo sauce made from cream cheese and butter, it’s a winning combination. Best of all, it takes only 20 minutes to make, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients for the Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet
• Chicken Breast: The lean protein base of this dish that absorbs the rich buffalo sauce.
• Bacon: Adds a crispy, savory flavor to balance the creaminess of the sauce.
• Ranch Seasoning: Enhances the dish with a creamy, herby flavor.
• Butter: Provides richness and helps blend the sauce ingredients.
• Cream Cheese: Gives the sauce its creamy, velvety texture.
• Almond Milk: Used to thin the sauce while keeping it dairy-free, though you can substitute regular milk if preferred.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a melty, cheesy element to the dish.
• Buffalo Sauce: The star ingredient, providing a tangy, spicy kick that ties the whole dish together.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you prefer, you can easily substitute some ingredients based on dietary preferences:
• Chicken Thighs: Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for a higher fat content, perfect for those looking for a more indulgent keto meal.
• Heavy Cream: Swap almond milk for heavy cream for an even richer, more decadent sauce.
• Sugar-Free Buffalo Sauce: If you’re strictly counting carbs, opt for a sugar-free buffalo sauce to keep the dish completely carb-free.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet
- Preheat the skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute.
- Cook chicken and bacon: Add diced chicken, bacon, and ranch seasoning to the skillet. Sauté until the chicken is golden and fully cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Drain excess fat: Remove excess grease by draining it through a colander. Set the cooked chicken and bacon aside.
- Make the creamy sauce: Reduce the heat to low and return the skillet to the stove. Add butter, cream cheese, and almond milk to the skillet, whisking until melted and combined.
- Add cheese: Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and whisk until fully melted. Gradually raise the heat until the sauce starts to bubble.
- Combine chicken and buffalo sauce: Return the chicken and bacon to the skillet, stirring well. Drizzle buffalo sauce over the top and add more cheese for extra gooeyness.
- Simmer: Cover and let the skillet simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. For an extra crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, then serve hot and enjoy your keto buffalo chicken skillet.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet
- Check the doneness of the chicken: Always make sure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Adjust the spiciness: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or opt for a less spicy sauce variety.
- Use fresh bacon: For the crispiest bacon, cook it fresh in the skillet, as pre-cooked bacon may not crisp up as well.
- Storing leftovers: Store any leftover Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Pairing Ideas and Variations for Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet
Pair this dish with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete keto meal. For extra crunch, serve it with some keto-friendly garlic bread or a low-carb cauliflower rice dish. You can also make this recipe ahead of time for meal prep by storing the cooked chicken and buffalo sauce mixture separately, then reheating when needed.
If you want to add a twist to this dish, consider topping it with a few avocado slices or a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese for added creaminess and flavor. For those who love a spicier kick, a few extra dashes of hot sauce can elevate the heat level.
Why Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet Is Perfect for Your Low-Carb Lifestyle
The Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet is not only delicious but also a great option for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. With only 3 grams of carbs per serving (depending on the buffalo sauce used), it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal without compromising your dietary goals. The protein from the chicken and bacon keeps you satisfied, while the healthy fats from the cream cheese and butter support your keto lifestyle.
This recipe is simple enough for beginners but flavorful enough for seasoned keto enthusiasts, making it a must-try for anyone looking for an easy, comforting meal that fits perfectly into their low-carb routine. Whether you’re following keto for weight loss or simply enjoying the benefits of a low-carb diet, this Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet will quickly become a go-to meal in your rotation.
Conclusion
If you’re craving a quick, creamy, and spicy keto meal, the Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet is your answer. With its rich buffalo sauce, crispy bacon, and tender chicken, it checks all the boxes for a satisfying dish. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a meal prep favorite. Enjoy the bold flavors and comfort of this keto recipe, and don’t forget to try different variations to make it your own!
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet?
Yes, you can absolutely use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are higher in fat, which makes them a great option for keto recipes, providing extra richness to the dish. However, chicken breasts are leaner and will provide more protein if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Is Buffalo sauce keto-friendly?
Yes, most buffalo sauces are keto-friendly. They’re usually low in carbs because they’re primarily made from hot sauce, butter, and vinegar. However, it’s important to check the label for any added sugars, as some brands may contain small amounts that could increase the carb count. For a zero-carb version, you can opt for a sugar-free buffalo sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can make the Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet dairy-free by using dairy-free alternatives. Replace the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese, and use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast in place of the shredded cheddar. For the butter, you can substitute with a dairy-free butter alternative, such as ghee or olive oil.
More Relevant Recipes
Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet is a quick, creamy, and low-carb dish that combines tender chicken breast, crispy bacon, and a rich buffalo sauce. This one-pan meal is perfect for keto enthusiasts looking for a flavorful, easy dinner that’s ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 12oz chicken breast, diced
- 4 slices 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 (separated in ½s)
- ⅓ cup buffalo sauce
Instructions
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute.
- Add chicken, bacon, and ranch seasoning, then sauté until golden and crispy. Chicken should be cooked through (165°F internal temp).
- Drain excess grease and set chicken and bacon aside.
- Reduce heat to low, add butter, cream cheese, and almond milk to the skillet. Whisk until melted and fully combined.
- Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and whisk until melted. Gradually raise heat until the sauce bubbles, then reduce to a simmer.
- Add chicken and bacon back to the skillet, stirring well to coat in the sauce.
- Drizzle buffalo sauce over the mixture and top with remaining cheese. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes to crisp the top.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- For a spicier kick, add more buffalo sauce or hot sauce.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cream cheese and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 422
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
