Low Carb Baked Chicken: 9 Quick & Satisfying Dinners

Tired of the same boring, dry chicken dinners on your low-carb diet? You need quick, delicious meals that the whole family will actually eat, but finding satisfying options feels like a constant struggle. You’re looking for low carb baked chicken recipes for dinner that are anything but bland.

Low carb baked chicken recipes are a versatile solution for healthy and quick dinners, often prepared in under 45 minutes with minimal cleanup. By using flavorful seasonings, nutrient-dense vegetables, and keto-friendly sauces, you can easily create complete, satisfying meals that avoid the common pitfalls of dry chicken and bland flavors.

Based on proven culinary methods and authentic recipe frameworks, this guide is your key to unlocking incredible flavor. You’ll discover 9 expertly tested recipes designed to be juicy, tender, and packed with taste. Get ready to transform your weeknight dinners from a chore into a highlight.

9 Quick & Satisfying Low Carb Baked Chicken Dinners

Forget the idea that a low carb diet means sacrificing flavor or spending hours in the kitchen. The following nine recipes are designed to be your go-to solutions for a quick keto chicken dinner that is both nutritious and delicious. We’ll explore a variety of chicken cuts, from tender baked chicken breast to juicy baked chicken thighs, and pair them with an array of low carb vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and asparagus. By leveraging the power of cheese, garlic butter, and zesty herbs, these dishes prove that a healthy baked chicken dinner can be the most exciting meal of your day. Many of these are a one pan meal, making cleanup as easy as the cooking.

1. Bake Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach

Pin this ultimate creamy chicken dinner to your ‘Keto Favorites’ board!
This creamy chicken recipe is the definition of healthy comfort food. Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs ensures the meat stays incredibly juicy and flavorful, while the rich sauce made from heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese provides incredible satiety. It’s an easy keto dinner that comes together in one skillet, which means quick cleanup and a no-fuss cooking experience.

Ingredients Needed

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs), pat dried for crispy skin
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tbsp pre-minced garlic)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup heavy cream (full-fat, low carb)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor)
• 2 cups fresh spinach (tightly packed)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip and sear for another 2-3 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer.
6. Whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring until slightly thickened.
7. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
8. Return chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Pro-Tip: To ensure juicy, tender chicken that doesn’t dry out, always use a meat thermometer. Pull the chicken from the oven as soon as it reaches 165°F. For a richer flavor, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This recipe demonstrates effective flavor compounds through the culinary chemistry of garlic and cream.

2. Roast Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken with Asparagus

Save this healthy one-pan dinner to your ‘Easy Weeknight Meals’ board!
This sheet pan chicken recipe is the ultimate one pan meal for busy weeknights. It combines lean chicken breasts and flavorful chicken thighs with asparagus, a fantastic low carb vegetable that pairs beautifully with the zesty flavors of lemon and herbs. The entire meal roasts together on a single baking sheet, making it one of our favorite quick dinner ideas for its simplicity and minimal cleanup.

Supplies Needed

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional, for variety)
• 1.5 lbs fresh asparagus, tough ends trimmed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (zesty)
• 1 tbsp dried rosemary (or 2 tbsp fresh, chopped)
• 1 tbsp dried thyme (or 2 tbsp fresh, chopped)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken pieces, asparagus, olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to ensure everything is evenly coated.
3. Arrange the chicken and asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure there’s enough space for even roasting.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C) and asparagus is tender-crisp.
5. If desired, broil for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness on the chicken and slight char on the asparagus. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
6. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.

Pro-Tip: For the most flavorful and juicy chicken, ensure you don’t overcrowd your sheet pan. If necessary, use two baking sheets. This allows for proper air circulation, which is key to achieving a good Maillard reaction and preventing steaming.

3. Prepare Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast

Crunchy, keto-friendly chicken? Yes, please! Pin it now!
If you’re craving that satisfying crunch but need a no breading alternative, this recipe is your answer. It creates a fantastically crispy coating using a clever mix of Parmesan cheese and almond flour, making it a perfect gluten free chicken parmesan solution. This is one of the best low carb chicken breast recipes for satisfying that fried chicken craving without the carbs or the deep fryer.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs), pounded to 1/2-inch thickness
• 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup blanched almond flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 large eggs, whisked
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling)
• Optional: Low carb marinara sauce and mozzarella for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, combine Parmesan cheese, almond flour, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs.
4. Dip each chicken breast first into the whisked egg, allowing excess to drip off. Then, coat thoroughly in the Parmesan-almond flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Arrange coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
7. If desired, top with low carb marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot.

Pro-Tip: For the absolute best crispy coating that truly mimics traditional breading, ensure your finely grated Parmesan cheese and blanched almond flour are of good quality. A light drizzle of olive oil before baking also helps promote browning and crispness, contributing to desired texture modification.

4. Whip Up Tuscan Baked Chicken with Spinach & Sundried Tomatoes

Transport your taste buds to Tuscany! Pin this flavorful keto dish!
This Tuscan chicken bake with broccoli and spinach brings sophisticated, Mediterranean diet-inspired flavors to your weeknight table. The intense, savory taste of sundried tomatoes combines with spinach in a rich, creamy sauce, creating one of the most flavorful low carb chicken main dishes you’ll ever make. This one-skillet wonder is impressive enough for guests but easy enough for a regular dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 oz sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained and chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup heavy cream (full-fat)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach (tightly packed)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip and sear for another 2-3 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
5. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
6. Whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
8. Return chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
10. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Pro-Tip: For an even richer, deeper flavor in your Tuscan baked chicken, consider marinating the chicken thighs for 30 minutes to an hour in a little olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper before searing. This enhances the flavor compounds within the chicken itself.

5. Bake Zesty Chicken Fajita Tray Bake

Spice up your dinner! Pin this zesty low carb chicken fajita bake!
This vibrant chicken fajita tray bake is a celebration of color and flavor. Thinly sliced chicken breast, colorful bell peppers, and onions are tossed in a smoky fajita seasoning and roasted to perfection. It’s a fantastic low carb chicken with vegetables recipe that provides a zesty, satisfying meal with minimal effort and cleanup. Serve in lettuce wraps for a complete keto experience.

Supplies Needed

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced into strips
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fajita seasoning (check for sugar-free, low carb)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges, for serving
• Optional toppings: cilantro, avocado, sour cream (full-fat, keto friendly)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced chicken, bell peppers, and onion.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fajita seasoning. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Arrange the chicken and vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C) and vegetables are tender-crisp with slight charring.
6. Serve immediately with lime wedges and optional low carb toppings like cilantro, avocado, or sour cream.

Pro-Tip: For maximum flavor and to prevent the vegetables from becoming watery, ensure your oven is fully preheated and don’t overcrowd the pan. The high heat promotes excellent caramelization, which contributes significantly to the delicious flavor compounds of the fajitas.

6. Create a Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Bake

Comfort food, made low carb! Pin this cheesy goodness to your dinner ideas!
This keto chicken bake is the ultimate in healthy comfort food. The classic pairing of chicken + broccoli is elevated with a rich, cheesy sauce made from cheddar cheese and cream cheese. It’s a definite family approved meal that feels indulgent but is perfectly aligned with a low-carb lifestyle. It’s also a great candidate for your meal prep basics.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, thawed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 oz cream cheese (full-fat, softened)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (full-fat)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
2. If using raw broccoli, either steam or blanch the florets until tender-crisp.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken and steamed broccoli.
4. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over medium heat until smooth and melted.
5. Stir in 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted into the sauce.
6. Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken and broccoli mixture. Stir gently to combine everything.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
9. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving hot.

Pro-Tip: For the creamiest sauce in your Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Bake, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before whisking. This helps prevent lumps and creates a perfectly smooth consistency. For an extra crispy topping, a sprinkle of crushed pork rinds on top before baking can act as a delicious no breading alternative.

7. Prepare Baked Buffalo Chicken with Celery & Blue Cheese Crumbles

Get your spice on with this low carb buffalo chicken! Perfect for game night!
This baked buffalo chicken recipe delivers all the spicy, tangy flavor you love in a completely keto friendly format. By using a sugar-free buffalo sauce, you can create a flavorful and exciting low carb chicken dinner idea that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a game day spread. Paired with cooling celery and sharp blue cheese crumbles, it’s a classic combination that’s “better than take-out.”

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
• 1 cup sugar-free buffalo sauce (check labels for low carb)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
• Celery sticks, for serving
• Optional: Keto-friendly ranch or blue cheese dressing

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. In a bowl, toss chicken breasts with 1/2 cup of the buffalo sauce to coat evenly.
4. Arrange chicken in the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
6. Once cooked, either shred the chicken directly in the dish or slice into cubes.
7. Return shredded/cubed chicken to the baking dish. Pour the remaining 1/2 cup of buffalo sauce over the chicken and toss to coat.
8. Sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles.
9. Bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve hot with celery sticks and optional keto-friendly dressing.

Pro-Tip: For the best baked buffalo chicken experience, make sure to use a high-quality, sugar-free buffalo sauce to keep it truly low carb. The tang and spice of the sauce are amplified by a short bake after coating, ensuring deep flavor penetration and a satisfyingly spicy kick without relying on deep frying.

8. Arrange a Quick Oven-Baked Chicken & Mushroom Tray Bake

An earthy, low carb delight! Pin this quick one-pan chicken dinner!
For a simple, savory, and nutritious meal, look no further than this oven roasted low carb chicken and mushroom tray bake. The classic pairing of chicken + mushrooms is enhanced with aromatic thyme and garlic. Using chicken thighs keeps the meat moist and tender, while roasting brings out the deep, earthy flavor of the mushrooms. It’s a perfect one pan meal for when you want a satisfying dinner with very little effort.

Supplies Needed

• 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 lb cremini or button mushrooms, quartered
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken thighs and quartered mushrooms.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat everything evenly.
4. Arrange the chicken and mushrooms in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure chicken skin is facing up for crisping.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C) and mushrooms are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.

Pro-Tip: For the best oven-baked chicken and mushroom tray bake, try to space out the ingredients on the baking sheet as much as possible. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, preventing the beautiful golden brown caramelization on both the chicken and the nutritious mushrooms.

9. Craft a Simple Keto Crack Chicken Bake

Warning: Highly addictive! Pin this keto crack chicken bake for a satisfying dinner!
This keto crack chicken bake lives up to its name with an irresistibly delicious combination of flavors. This ultimate chicken cheese and bacon casserole brings together shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a super cheesy, creamy sauce seasoned with ranch seasoning. It’s a high protein, incredibly satisfying meal that’s a perfect example of family friendly low carb chicken.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat, softened)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (full-fat)
• 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (ensure sugar-free, low carb)
• 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• Fresh green onions, sliced, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked shredded chicken and half of the crumbled bacon.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and ranch seasoning until smooth.
4. Fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chicken and bacon. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
8. Garnish with the remaining crumbled bacon and fresh green onions before serving hot.

Pro-Tip: For an even richer, deeper flavor in your Keto Crack Chicken Bake, consider rendering bacon in the oven first, using the rendered fat to sauté a little onion before adding the cream cheese mixture. This adds another layer of flavor compounds and supports the juicy texture of the chicken. Ensure your ranch seasoning mix is sugar-free to maintain the low carb integrity.

Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Low Carb Baked Chicken

• Versatility is Key: From creamy sauces to zesty tray bakes, baked chicken offers endless low carb dinner ideas that fit diverse flavor preferences and busy schedules, fulfilling the promise of satisfying low carb chicken meals.
• Master Juicy Chicken: Prevent a dry chicken solution by using a meat thermometer to hit 165°F, resting cooked meat, and leveraging bone-in, skin-on cuts or rich sauces for added moisture.
• Embrace One-Pan Solutions: Many low carb chicken tray bake recipes are designed for a single sheet pan or skillet, providing quick cleanup and time saving tips perfect for efficient weeknight cooking.
• Follow Simple Steps: Detailed ingredients and numbered instructions in each recipe ensure clarity and ease of execution, making even complex-sounding dishes simple keto chicken recipes.
• Prioritize Quality Ingredients: Always check labels for hidden sugars in sauces and seasonings, and opt for finely grated Parmesan cheese or blanched almond flour as no breading alternatives.

People Also Ask About Low Carb Baked Chicken

How can I make baked chicken juicy and tender?

To ensure baked chicken remains juicy and tender, avoid overcooking it by using a meat thermometer to reach exactly 165°F (74°C). Resting the chicken for 5-10 minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, and using bone-in, skin-on cuts or incorporating creamy sauces can provide additional moisture, solving the problem of dry chicken.

How many carbs are in baked chicken, and is it keto-friendly?

Plain baked chicken is naturally very low in carbohydrates, typically containing 0-1g net carbs per serving, making it inherently keto-friendly. The carb count increases with marinades or coatings, so always choose sugar-free options and focus on the net carbs per serving when evaluating a recipe’s suitability for a keto diet.

What are the best low carb seasonings for baked chicken?

Excellent low carb seasonings for baked chicken include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried herbs like oregano and thyme, and salt and pepper. For a flavorful boost, consider a sugar-free ranch seasoning or chili powder for a zesty taste. These blends are a great bland flavor fix.

How long does it take to bake chicken breast at 400°F (200°C)?

At 400°F (200°C), boneless, skinless chicken breasts typically bake for 20-30 minutes, depending on thickness. Pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness for quicker, more uniform cooking. Always confirm with a meat thermometer that the internal temperature is 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s both cooked through and still juicy.

Can I make a creamy low carb chicken bake without using canned cream soup?

Yes, you can absolutely make a creamy low carb chicken bake without canned soup by creating a rich sauce from scratch using full-fat heavy cream, cream cheese, and chicken broth. This method, demonstrated in our recipes, allows you to control ingredients and avoid hidden sugars, making it a “better than take-out” alternative.

What low carb side dishes pair well with baked chicken?

Low carb side dishes that pair perfectly with baked chicken include roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, and a fresh green salad. These low carb vegetables complement the high protein chicken without adding unnecessary carbs, creating a complete and nutritious meal.

Can I meal prep low carb baked chicken recipes?

Absolutely, many low carb baked chicken recipes are ideal for meal prep. Dishes like the sheet pan bakes or casseroles can be cooked in advance and stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, providing quick dinner ideas throughout the week.

How do I get a crispy coating on baked chicken without using breadcrumbs?

Achieve a delicious crispy coating on baked chicken without breadcrumbs by using a mixture of finely grated Parmesan cheese and blanched almond flour. Pressing this alternative to breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken, drizzling with olive oil, and baking at a high temperature yields a wonderfully crunchy texture that is both gluten free and low carb.

Final Thoughts on Low Carb Baked Chicken Recipes for Dinner

You now have a full toolkit of low carb baked chicken recipes for dinner that are anything but boring. From the rich and creamy garlic butter chicken to the zesty chicken fajita tray bake, these dishes prove that eating healthy can be a delicious and satisfying experience. By focusing on quality ingredients, smart cooking techniques to keep chicken juicy, and embracing one pan meals, you can consistently create family friendly low carb chicken dinners that everyone will love. These expertly tested recipes are more than just instructions; they are a framework for making your low-carb journey sustainable and enjoyable.

Which of these easy low carb chicken bake ideas will you try first for dinner this week?

Last update on 2026-01-06 at 17:48 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API