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Keto Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet - Easy, Comforting, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces; thighs work too)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 ounces cream cheese (softened, cut into cubes)
  • 3/4 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach (lightly packed)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • Fresh parsley (optional, chopped, for garnish)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Toss with salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and oregano until evenly coated.
  2. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the chicken in a single layer. Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring a few times, until browned and just cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely.
  3. Sauté the garlic: Lower heat to medium. If the pan looks dry, add a small splash of oil. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant, scraping up browned bits.
  4. Build the sauce: Stir in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in the cream cheese cubes a few at a time until smooth and melted.
  5. Finish the cream base: Pour in heavy cream and add Parmesan. Stir until the sauce is silky and slightly thickened, 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  6. Add the greens: Stir in spinach and let it wilt, about 1 minute. If using, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  7. Combine and brighten: Return the chicken and any juices to the skillet. Toss to coat. Simmer 1–2 minutes to heat through. Stir in lemon juice if you like a fresh pop.
  8. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot with a low-carb side like cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or roasted broccoli.