EASY KETO CHICKEN THIGHS WITH MUSHROOM SAUCE

I’ll never forget the first time I successfully navigated a family potluck armed with a dish everyone raved about – it was a creamy mushroom sauce, though back then, I piled it high on mashed potatoes! Now, years later and a little wiser about my carb intake, I’ve channeled that same deliciousness into a recipe for Keto Chicken Thighs With Mushroom Sauce that’s just as comforting and satisfying, without the guilt. Get ready to impress yourself (and maybe even a few guests) with this surprisingly simple and utterly flavorful dish – you’re going to love it!

Why You’ll Love This Keto Chicken Thighs Recipe

Okay, friend, let’s get real. There are a million and one chicken recipes out there, so why should you choose *this* one? Here’s the lowdown:

• It’s Keto-Friendly: Obviously! This recipe is designed to be low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it perfect for a ketogenic diet.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of juicy chicken thighs and a rich, savory mushroom sauce is simply irresistible. We’re talking umami overload in the best possible way.
• Easy to Make: Don’t let the fancy sauce intimidate you. This recipe is surprisingly simple and straightforward, even for beginner cooks.
• Quick Weeknight Dinner: From prep to plate, you can have this delicious meal on the table in about 45 minutes.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe to your liking. Add different herbs, spices, or vegetables to create your own signature dish.
• Budget-Friendly: Chicken thighs are typically more affordable than chicken breasts, making this a great option for saving money without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this Keto Chicken Thighs With Mushroom Sauce recipe:

• Chicken Thighs: About 1.5 – 2 pounds, bone-in, skin-on (for maximum flavor and juiciness!). You can use boneless, skinless thighs if you prefer, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted.
• Mushrooms: 1 pound, sliced. Cremini, shiitake, or a mix of your favorite mushrooms will work beautifully.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup. This is what gives the sauce its creamy richness.
• Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup. Adds depth of flavor to the sauce. Use low-sodium to control the salt level.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Because garlic makes everything better.
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped. Adds sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons. For sautéing the vegetables and adding richness.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. To help prevent the butter from burning.
• Dry White Wine (Optional): 1/4 cup. Adds a layer of sophistication to the sauce. If you don’t want to use wine, simply substitute with more chicken broth.
• Fresh Thyme: 2 sprigs. Adds a lovely earthy aroma. You can also use dried thyme (about 1 teaspoon).
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped. For a pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Cooking Keto Chicken Thighs With Mushroom Sauce

Alright, friend, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create the most delicious Keto Chicken Thighs With Mushroom Sauce you’ve ever tasted.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Thighs

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This will help them get nice and crispy when seared.
2. Season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be afraid to use a good amount of seasoning – it’s essential for flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken Thighs

1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to hold all the chicken thighs in a single layer.
2. Once the oil and butter are hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet.
3. Sear the chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. The goal here is to develop a beautiful crust – don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this point.
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are softened and have released their moisture.

Step 4: Make the Mushroom Sauce

1. If using, pour the dry white wine into the skillet and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This will add a ton of flavor to the sauce.
2. Add the chicken broth and fresh thyme sprigs to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly reduced.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the mushroom sauce.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken Thighs

1. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. If the chicken skin starts to get too brown during baking, you can loosely cover the skillet with foil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
3. Serve the Keto Chicken Thighs With Mushroom Sauce over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or your favorite keto-friendly side dish.

Tips for the BEST Keto Chicken Thighs With Mushroom Sauce

Want to take your Keto Chicken Thighs With Mushroom Sauce to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks to help you achieve perfection:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When searing the chicken thighs, make sure they have enough space in the skillet. Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and prevent the chicken from browning properly. If necessary, sear the chicken in batches.
• Use high-quality ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, the better the flavor of your dish. Opt for fresh, locally sourced mushrooms and high-quality chicken thighs.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other herbs and spices to the mushroom sauce, such as rosemary, sage, or paprika. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
• Make it ahead of time: This recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated. Simply prepare the chicken thighs and mushroom sauce as directed, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.
• Crispy Skin Secret: For extra crispy skin, try placing the chicken thighs under the broiler for a few minutes at the end of cooking. Watch them closely to prevent burning!

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas for variations and substitutions:

• Different Mushrooms: Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as portobello, oyster, or enoki. Each type of mushroom will add its own unique flavor and texture to the sauce.
• Cream Cheese: For an even creamier sauce, try adding a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese. Stir it in at the end of cooking until melted and smooth.
• Spinach: Add a handful of fresh spinach to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. The spinach will wilt down and add a boost of nutrients.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add a few chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the mushroom sauce for a burst of tangy flavor.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mushroom sauce for a little bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve made your delicious Keto Chicken Thighs With Mushroom Sauce, it’s time to serve it up! Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Cauliflower Rice: A classic keto side dish that pairs perfectly with the creamy mushroom sauce.
• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Another great low-carb option that’s light and refreshing.
• Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy and comforting alternative to mashed potatoes.
• Asparagus: Roasted or grilled asparagus makes a simple and elegant side dish.
• Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic and lemon are a quick and easy side dish.

Keto Chicken Thighs: Nutrition Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 450-550
• Net Carbs: 5-7 grams
• Protein: 35-45 grams
• Fat: 30-40 grams

Note: These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For more accurate nutritional information, you can use a nutrition tracking app or website.

Other Keto Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you’re loving this Keto Chicken Thighs With Mushroom Sauce recipe, here are a few other keto-friendly recipes you might enjoy:

• Craving something meaty and cheesy? You have to try these Keto Philly Cheesesteak Rolls! They are the ultimate comfort food, keto-style.
• For another flavorful chicken dish, check out this Garlic Butter Mushroom Chicken recipe. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
• On a chilly day, nothing beats a warm bowl of Chicken Mushroom Soup. This keto-friendly version is creamy, comforting, and packed with nutrients.
• Looking for a comforting and flavorful soup? Give this Marry Me Chicken Soup a try! It’s so good, it might just get you a proposal.
• For a simple and delicious chicken dish, try these Roasted Chicken Thighs. They are incredibly flavorful and easy to make.
• And if you’re in the mood for pasta, this Marry Me Chicken Pasta is sure to impress. Just swap out the regular pasta for zucchini noodles or another keto-friendly alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions about this Keto Chicken Thighs With Mushroom Sauce recipe:

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs? Yes, you can, but keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to be drier than chicken thighs. If using chicken breasts, reduce the baking time and make sure to not overcook them.
• Can I make this recipe without wine? Absolutely! Simply substitute the wine with more chicken broth.
• Can I freeze this recipe? Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken thighs and mushroom sauce. Store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
• Can I use canned mushrooms? While fresh mushrooms are always preferable, you can use canned mushrooms in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well before adding them to the skillet.
• How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? The best way to check if the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure not to touch the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Final Thoughts

There you have it, my friend! A simple, delicious, and keto-friendly recipe for Chicken Thighs With Mushroom Sauce that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique version. Happy cooking!

Easy Keto Chicken Thighs with Mushroom Sauce

These keto chicken thighs are cooked in a creamy, savory mushroom sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying. This recipe is easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner, and customizable to your liking, making it a delicious and healthy meal option.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Keto

Calories: 500

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 – 2 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 1 pound mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth, low-sodium
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup dry white wine optional
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped optional garnish

Equipment

• Large oven-safe skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Meat thermometer
• Paper towels
• Spatula

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Heat olive oil and butter in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside.
5. Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, until softened.
6. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
7. Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, until softened and have released their moisture.
8. If using, pour dry white wine into the skillet and deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
9. Add chicken broth and fresh thyme sprigs to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, until the sauce has slightly reduced.
10. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the mushroom sauce.
12. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
13. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving.
14. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
15. Serve over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or your favorite keto-friendly side dish.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken thighs for a few minutes at the end of cooking. Recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated. Store cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freezer for up to 2 months. Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as portobello or shiitake. For a creamier sauce, add a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese at the end of cooking.