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Keto Queso Smothered Chicken - Creamy, Comforting, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the chicken:
  • 4 small chicken breasts (or 2 large, halved lengthwise)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
  • For the queso sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
  • 1 to 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup canned diced green chiles (drained) or finely chopped pickled jalapeños
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes and softened
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese (freshly grated)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)
  • Juice of 1/2 lime (optional, to brighten)
  • For serving (optional):
  • Sliced avocado
  • Cauliflower rice or sautéed greens
  • Extra cilantro, lime wedges

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken dry. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Season both sides of the chicken.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear 4–6 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through to 165°F. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.
  3. Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter and onion. Sauté 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and green chiles for 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in cream cheese until smooth and melted.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Gradually add shredded cheese by the handful, whisking until fully melted and silky. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and salt. If too thick, add a splash of cream; if too thin, simmer 1–2 minutes.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in cilantro and a squeeze of lime if using.
  7. Return chicken and any juices to the skillet. Spoon queso over the top and warm for 1–2 minutes until everything is cozy and coated.
  8. Serve hot with avocado slices and your favorite low-carb side.