Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet

Our Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet is a deliciously cheesy dish that brings together tender chicken and crispy Turkey Bacon in a creamy, spicy sauce. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering rich flavors without the carbs. Whether you’re following a keto diet or just looking for an easy dinner option, this recipe checks all the boxes for taste and simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this dish makes weeknight cooking a breeze.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of Buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and cheddar provides a rich flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or served over cauliflower rice for an extra low-carb option.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and Turkey Bacon, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right kitchen equipment can make all the difference in the ease of preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Colander
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking, making it ideal for sautéing chicken and bacon.
• Colander: Using a colander helps to efficiently drain excess grease from the cooked meat.
• Whisk: A whisk is crucial for smoothly combining ingredients like cream cheese and almond milk without lumps.

Ingredients

Our one pan easy buffalo chicken skillet is a cheesy Turkey Bacon cream cheese dish like a casserole, but FAST on the stove top.

For the Chicken

• 12oz chicken breast, diced
• 4 slices Turkey Bacon, diced
• 1 tablespoon Ranch Seasoning

For the Sauce

• 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

1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute.

Step 2: Cook Chicken and Turkey Bacon

1. Add chicken, Turkey Bacon, and ranch seasoning to the skillet.
2. Sauté until golden and crispy. Ensure that the chicken is fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 3: Drain Grease

1. Drain grease using a colander.
2. Set aside the cooked chicken and Turkey Bacon.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. Reduce heat to low and return the skillet to the burner.
2. Add butter, cream cheese, and almond milk to the skillet.
3. Whisk until melted and fully combined.

Step 5: Add Cheese

1. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
2. Whisk until melted; gradually increase heat just until the cheese sauce bubbles.
3. Reduce heat to simmer.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

1. Return cooked chicken and Turkey Bacon to the skillet.
2. Stir well to combine everything.

Step 7: Drizzle Buffalo Sauce

1. Drizzle Buffalo wing sauce evenly over the mixture.
2. Top with remaining cheese or Parmesan if desired.

Step 8: Simmer

1. Cover skillet and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
2. Optional step: broil for an additional 1-2 minutes for a bubbly top.

Enjoy your delectable Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet!

How to Serve Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet

The Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a satisfying dinner with friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Veggies

• Celery Sticks: Crunchy and refreshing, celery pairs well with the spicy buffalo flavor.
• Carrot Sticks: Sweet and crisp, carrots offer a perfect contrast to the heat of the chicken.

Over Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative to traditional rice, it absorbs the flavors of the skillet beautifully.

Topped with Avocado

• Sliced Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado adds healthy fats and balances the spiciness of the dish.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Romaine Lettuce Leaves: Use these as wraps for a low-carb option that’s fun to eat and easy to prepare.

How to Perfect Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet

Creating the ultimate Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is perfect every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and ingredients enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify buffalo sauce quantity for desired heat; add more if you like it spicy!
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Ensure chicken is cooked through but remains juicy by monitoring internal temperature (165°F).
• Experiment with Cheese Blends: Mixing different cheeses can create unique flavors; try pepper jack for an extra kick.

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 to consider.

1. Zucchini Noodles: Light and low-carb, zucchini noodles make a great base for soaking up sauce.
2. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy and rich, this dish mimics classic mashed potatoes without the carbs.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and flavorful, they add a delicious crunch alongside your skillet.
4. Keto Coleslaw: A refreshing side that complements the spice of buffalo chicken beautifully.
5. Cheesy Broccoli Bake: This comforting side features tender broccoli smothered in cheese, adding extra creaminess to your meal.
6. Spinach Salad with Avocado Dressing: Light yet satisfying, this salad offers freshness with healthy fats from avocado dressing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes while making your Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet can enhance the dish’s quality and flavor.

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your skillet can lead to uneven cooking. Always give your skillet a minute to heat up before adding ingredients.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much chicken at once can cause steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary for that golden crispiness.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Undercooked chicken is unsafe. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
• Not Draining Grease: Leaving excess grease can make your dish too oily. Use a colander to drain fat before mixing in other ingredients.
• Rushing the Cheese Sauce: Melting cheese too quickly can result in a grainy texture. Stir slowly over low heat to achieve a creamy consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying this amazing dish.

What is a Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet?

A Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet is a quick and easy one-pan meal featuring chicken, bacon, cream cheese, and buffalo sauce, perfect for low-carb diets.

Can I use regular bacon instead of Turkey Bacon?

Yes, you can substitute regular bacon if you prefer; however, it may increase the fat content of the dish.

How spicy is the Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet?

The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce used. You can choose mild or hot sauce based on your preference.

Can I add vegetables to my Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet?

Absolutely! Consider adding bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients without adding many carbs.

Final Thoughts

This Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food without breaking your diet. Feel free to customize it with additional veggies or spices to make it your own!