Keto Chicken and Bacon Skillet is one of those comforting, hearty, and deeply satisfying meals that checks every box for flavor, simplicity, and perfect keto macros. It combines tender chicken pieces and crispy bacon with a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and cheese. This one-pan recipe is ideal for busy weeknights because it’s quick to make, uses easy-to-find ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality taste without complicated steps.
The beauty of a skillet meal like this lies in how effortlessly everything comes together. First, the bacon renders its flavor-packed fat, then the chicken cooks in that savory base, absorbing delicious smoky goodness. A silky cream sauce is created by reducing heavy cream with garlic, parmesan, and optional low-carb vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. The final result is a thick, luscious dish that pairs wonderfully with zoodles, cauliflower rice, or steamed vegetables.
This Keto Chicken and Bacon Skillet is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or anyone following a low-carb lifestyle who doesn’t want to sacrifice flavor. It’s rich, filling, and packed with healthy fats and protein while keeping carbs minimal. If you’re looking for a keto-friendly meal that feels indulgent yet keeps you on track, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping the bacon and cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Rinse and dry spinach if using.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until crispy. Remove bacon pieces and place them on a paper towel to drain. Leave the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Add olive oil or butter to the skillet if needed, then add the chicken pieces in a single layer.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release the browned bits.
- Add heavy cream and whisk gently to combine.
- Stir in the parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce.
- Add spinach or mushrooms if using, and cook until spinach wilts and mushrooms soften.
- Return the chicken and bacon to the skillet and stir to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
- Simmer on low heat for 3–5 minutes until sauce reaches desired thickness.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 36g
- Fat: 39g
- Carbs: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Net Carbs: 3g
Keto Chicken and Bacon Skillet
Ingredient Notes (Detailed Breakdown)
Bacon
Thick-cut bacon adds smoky flavor and crispy texture. When cooked, it releases bacon fat, which becomes the cooking base for the chicken. Avoid thin bacon because it may burn quickly and not produce enough drippings.
Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well. Breasts give a leaner bite, while thighs add juiciness and more fat. Cut into evenly sized cubes for consistent cooking.
Olive Oil or Butter
Even though bacon fat is used, a small amount of olive oil or butter ensures the chicken browns nicely without sticking. Butter can add richness, while olive oil keeps things lighter.
Garlic
Fresh minced garlic provides aromatic depth that enhances the creamy sauce. If using jarred garlic, reduce the quantity slightly, as it can be stronger in flavor.
Onion Powder
Adds savory depth without moisture, keeping the sauce thick. It enhances the chicken and balances the richness of cream and bacon.
Smoked Paprika
Gives the dish a subtle smoky flavor that complements bacon beautifully. It also adds color and warmth to the sauce.
Italian Seasoning
A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. It infuses the sauce with Mediterranean-style flavor and ties all the ingredients together.
Salt and Pepper
Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the final taste. Use salt sparingly at first because bacon and parmesan are naturally salty.
Heavy Cream
The base of the creamy sauce. It thickens naturally without added flour, making it naturally low-carb and keto-friendly. It provides richness and silkiness.
Chicken Broth
Adds flavor and thins the sauce slightly, preventing it from becoming too thick. Choose low-sodium broth to control the salt level.
Parmesan Cheese
Grated parmesan melts into the sauce, thickening it further while adding nutty, salty flavor. Freshly grated parmesan melts best and avoids clumping.
Spinach (Optional)
Adds color, nutrients, and volume. It wilts quickly into the hot sauce without affecting the creamy texture.
Mushrooms (Optional)
Mushrooms add earthiness and additional umami. They absorb flavors beautifully and provide texture contrast.
Parsley
Used as a garnish for a fresh and colorful finish.
Serving Instructions
- Serve over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete keto meal.
- For added crunch, sprinkle extra cooked bacon on top before serving.
- A drizzle of lemon juice can enhance brightness and balance richness.
- Serve with a side salad for a lighter option.
Tips
- Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
- If sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered until it reduces.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Don’t skip browning the chicken—it adds flavor depth.
Storage Information
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave in 30-second intervals to prevent splitting of the cream sauce.
FAQ’s
1. Can I substitute heavy cream with coconut cream?
Yes, coconut cream works well and keeps the recipe dairy-free. However, it may slightly alter the flavor.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it stores beautifully and reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep.
3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, but you’ll need to reduce cooking time. Cook bacon first, then add the chicken after the sauce thickens.
4. How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce uncovered or add more parmesan cheese for a creamier consistency.
5. What vegetables can I add to bulk up the meal?
Zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, kale, and broccoli all work well and stay low-carb.
