As I stood over my stove, the aroma of sizzling garlic and fresh jalapeños filled the air, instantly uplifting my spirits. There’s something truly magical about creating a comforting meal, and this One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken hits the mark perfectly. Packed with tender chicken, zesty green chilies, and luscious melted cheese, it’s the ultimate creamy dish for anyone seeking a quick weeknight meal. Not only is this recipe low in carbs, making it ideal for those on a ketogenic diet, but it also offers the ease of minimal cleanup—win-win! With just a single pan, you can delight family and friends without the fuss. Are you ready to discover how simple it is to elevate your dinner game tonight?
Why is One Pan Cooking So Great?
Ease of Preparation: This One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Just toss everything together in one skillet and let it do its magic!
Flavor Fusion: Packed with zesty green chilies and melted cheese, this dish offers a creamy, delicious flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix things up! Use leftover rotisserie chicken, or swap in your favorite cheese for a personalized touch. Want to switch it up further? Check out my delicious Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for an easy spin!
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress whether it’s family dinner or a gathering with friends, offering a comforting taste without any guesswork.
Low-Carb Delight: Perfect for anyone embracing a ketogenic lifestyle, it’s high in protein yet low in carbs, ensuring you stay on track with your diet while enjoying a satisfying meal.
Grab your pan, and let’s cook up something incredible!
One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken Ingredients
• For the Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; olive oil may be used for a dairy-free option.
- Minced Garlic – Enhances the overall taste; fresh garlic is best, but jarred is a quick alternative.
- Seeded and Chopped Jalapeño – Provides heat and flavor depth; adjust based on your spice preference.
- Unsweetened Almond Milk – Creates a creamy base while keeping it low-carb; other plant-based milk can be substituted.
- Heavy Cream – Adds incredible richness; coconut cream can serve as a dairy-free substitute.
- Softened Cream Cheese – Contributes creaminess and thicken the sauce; full-fat varieties are best.
- Canned Diced Green Chilies – Delivers zesty flavor; choose low-sodium options if available.
- Chili Powder – Elevates the spiciness; try smoked chili powder for a unique twist.
- Ground Cumin – Adds an earthy depth to the flavors.
- Onion Powder – Boosts the savory essence of the dish.
• For the Chicken
- Shredded Cooked Chicken – The protein base; rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time saver.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Creates a creamy topping and packs flavor; feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack if desired.
- Additional Shredded Cheddar Cheese (for topping) – An extra cheesy layer for a delightful finish.
• For the Garnish
- Green Onions – Adds a fresh, zesty finish to your beautifully rich One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken.
It’s time to gather your ingredients and dive into this delightful cooking adventure!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures that your One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken bakes evenly and achieves that perfectly golden, bubbly finish. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and prepare to create a delightful, creamy dish that’s both easy and satisfying.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 seeded, chopped jalapeño. Sauté the mixture for 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the jalapeño is slightly softened, allowing those delicious aromas to fill your kitchen.
Step 3: Combine the Seasonings
Next, stir in one can of diced green chilies (including the liquid), along with 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Mix these ingredients well and allow them to cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the spices bloom and create a flavorful base for your One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk and ½ cup of heavy cream, whisking to combine. Slowly add in 4 oz of softened cream cheese, stirring continuously until it melts completely into the sauce. The mixture should thicken slightly, leaving you with a rich and creamy sauce that will envelop your chicken beautifully.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Cheese
Stir in 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally until the cheese is thoroughly melted and the chicken is heated through. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce is thick and creamy, perfectly coating every morsel of chicken.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Once your mixture is ready, sprinkle an additional 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for that extra cheesy goodness. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to achieve that irresistible crispy top.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
After baking, carefully remove your One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken from the oven. Allow it to cool slightly, then garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, zesty finish. This dish is now ready to be enjoyed, making dinner time a breeze and filled with warm, comforting flavors.
How to Store and Freeze One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: Let the One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of almond milk if needed for creaminess.
Portioning: Consider dividing into single servings before freezing for quick meal prep and easy access during busy weeknights!
One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists that’ll tantalize your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream and cream cheese with coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version.
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Seafood Twist: Swap shredded chicken for cooked shrimp or crab meat for a refreshing seafood twist that’s equally decadent.
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Extra Veggie Boost: Incorporate low-carb veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for an added nutritional punch and vibrant color.
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Spicier Option: Add more diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for those who crave a fiery kick in their dish.
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Different Cheese: Experiment with cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique flavor profile that can elevate your One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken to new heights.
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Cilantro & Lime: Toss in fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice as a finishing touch for a hint of zest that brightens the dish.
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Oven-Free Version: If you’re short on time, cook everything on the stovetop. Just let the cheese melt through, and you’ll have a creamy delight in no time.
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Classic Tex-Mex: Add black olives and diced tomatoes for a more traditional Tex-Mex feel, bringing familiarity and comfort to your plate.
Each of these variations gives you the chance to create a personalized twist on a classic dish while still enjoying the comfort of the original flavors. When you’re ready to indulge, consider serving it alongside sautéed vegetables or over cauliflower rice for a complete meal!
What to Serve with One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken
Satisfy your cravings and elevate your family’s dinner table with vibrant sides and delightful accompaniments.
- Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative mimics traditional rice, soaking up the creamy sauce beautifully while adding a satisfying texture.
- Sauteed Spinach: A quick sauté brings out vibrant colors and flavors, providing a nutritious, fresh side that complements the richness of the chicken.
- Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini adds a light, crunchy element, making every bite feel refreshing against the creamy chicken dish.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a bright contrast, enhancing your meal’s balance.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices add a velvety texture and healthy fats, creating a perfect harmony with the spicy, cheesy chicken.
- Spicy Black Beans: This side dish adds a kick of protein and a pleasing texture that melds seamlessly with the creamy sauce.
- Low-Carb Tortillas: Serve warm, these tortillas can be filled with the One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken, creating a fun, hand-held meal.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Flavorful and zesty, a light rice dish gives a refreshing note that pairs nicely, enriching the overall experience.
Make Ahead Options
This One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken is perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the creamy sauce (steps 1-4) up to 24 hours in advance by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the shredded cooked chicken separate until you’re ready to combine it with the sauce to maintain its texture. When you’re ready to enjoy the dish, simply stir in the chicken, top with cheese, and bake as instructed in steps 5-6. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal that’s just as flavorful and creamy, giving you more time to relax before serving!
Expert Tips for One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken
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Mindful Heat Level: Adjust jalapeño: For a milder dish, reduce the jalapeño quantity or choose sweeter peppers to maintain a balanced flavor.
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Cream Cheese Preparation: Soften First: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the sauce to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
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Efficient Cooking: Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken; it speeds up prep and provides great flavor without the fuss.
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Versatile Base: Customize to Taste: Feel free to swap cheeses or add your favorite low-carb veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, to the One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken for a unique twist.
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Stovetop Option: Skip the Oven: If short on time, you can skip baking and serve right from the stovetop; just let the cheese melt into the sauce before serving.
One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
For the One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken, cooked shredded chicken is recommended, with rotisserie chicken being an ideal option. It saves time and adds great flavor to the dish. You can also use leftover chicken from previous meals for a convenient and delicious twist!
How should I store leftovers?
Store your One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, ensuring you retain the richness of the creamy sauce.
Can I freeze One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken?
Absolutely! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. This meal can be frozen for up to 2 months. For optimal quality, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of almond milk if needed to maintain creaminess.
What if I want to make it milder?
If you’re concerned about the heat level, you can easily adjust the spiciness! Consider using less jalapeño or replace it with sweeter peppers. Additionally, you can omit chili powder or replace it with a milder spice blend to still enjoy the delicious flavors without too much heat.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Definitely! For a dairy-free version of the One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken, substitute the butter with olive oil, the cream with coconut cream, and use lactose-free cream cheese. You can also swap in a dairy-free cheese brand for the cheddar. This way, you can enjoy all the creamy goodness without dairy!
Is this recipe safe for pets?
While chicken is generally safe for pets, be cautious with ingredients used in cooking. Avoid feeding them the One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken as it contains spices, garlic, and other seasonings that can be harmful to pets. It’s best to stick to plain, unseasoned chicken if treating your furry friends!
One Pan Keto Green Chili Chicken: Your Creamy Comfort Fix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped jalapeño. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in diced green chilies, chili powder, ground cumin, and onion powder. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in almond milk and heavy cream, whisk to combine. Add softened cream cheese and stir until melted.
- Stir in shredded chicken and shredded cheddar cheese. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve.
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