Keto Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor—this keto baked chicken breast recipe is a game changer for your low-carb diet!
Let’s be real—nobody wants bland chicken. Dry, flavorless chicken is basically a crime against dinner. But this easy low-carb chicken recipe? It’s a total winner!
Today, I am sharing an easy low-carb chicken recipe with you. When it comes to dinner, I want to make one meal that the entire family will enjoy, while still fitting the parameters of a keto diet.
This keto baked chicken breast recipe fits perfectly. No more bland chicken—just perfectly seasoned, juicy, and tender boneless skinless chicken breasts that even the picky eaters love. And only one net carb per serving!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This easy low-carb chicken recipe is a must for busy weeknights! It’s ridiculously simple to throw together, bakes up in under 20 minutes, and is perfect for meal prep. Bake a batch on Sunday and have delicious keto meals ready for the entire week.
Plus, you can mix and match flavors to keep things interesting. Serve it with cauliflower rice, green beans, or a fresh side salad for a low-carb meal that’s full of flavor.
Over the years, I’ve turned my kitchen into a full-on low-carb meal testing lab, making over my favorite recipes with a keto diet twist. From baking and desserts to snacks and dinners for busy weeknights, I’m always working on new and delicious recipes.
Be sure to check out my Keto Beginner Guide to see how I lost over 85 lbs. in less than a year!
Keto Baked Chicken
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts – This lean protein powerhouse keeps you full and satisfied.
- Olive oil – Adds healthy fats and helps your seasoning stick.
- Paprika – Brings a hint of smoky sweetness and a little color.
- Italian seasoning – A classic mix of herbs that adds tons of flavor.
- Onion powder – A subtle flavor booster that makes a big difference.
- Garlic powder – Because garlic makes everything taste amazing.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Never underestimate the power of these basic seasonings.
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F.
2. Place chicken breasts in a 9″ x 13″ baking dish or onto a sheet pan and drizzle with olive oil. Flip the chicken and rub the olive oil all over.
3. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Season the chicken generously, making sure every piece is well coated.
5. Bake 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
6. Let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes, then serve.
Makes 5 servings.
Tips for Baking Chicken
- Use your favorite cut of chicken. Chicken thighs or legs both work great. You could even cook up a whole chicken. Just rub the oil and spices into the skin before putting it in the oven. Cooking time will vary depending on what cuts you are using.
- Avocado oil is an alternative healthy fat that can be substituted for olive oil.
- Use a meat mallet to tenderize and even out thickness for consistent cooking time.
- Mix your chicken pieces and seasonings together in the morning before you head out for the day, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap, and leave it in the fridge. All you have to do when you get home is pop it in the oven and let the chicken bake.
- An Instant Pot or air fryer both work great to achieve really juicy chicken.
Tips and Tricks
- If you like to do bulk meal prep ahead of time, just throw your whole chicken breasts into zip-top plastic freezer bags with your seasonings. Make sure you write the cooking time and temperature on the bag before you put it in the freezer! This easy recipe will keep for up to 9 months.
- Substitute fresh garlic for the garlic powder.
- Mix up your flavors! Try ranch dressing mix for a baked ranch chicken dinner. Or use taco seasoning or parmesan cheese for a new twist.
- Use chicken tenderloins to make keto chicken tenders.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the meat’s internal temperature and avoid overcooking—nobody likes dry chicken.
What to Serve with Baked Chicken
- Serve with a side of cauliflower rice topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for an Italian meal that fits easily into your keto dinner plan.
- Steamed green beans or other green vegetables.
- A fresh spinach side salad would also be delicious.
- Throw together a cheese sauce with chicken broth, cream cheese, and a splash of heavy cream. Season with black pepper and salt. Add some parmesan cheese for a parmesan cream sauce.
Low-Carb Toppings
- Sprinkle with parmesan cheese before serving.
- Top your boneless, skinless chicken breasts with cheddar cheese.
- Sour cream, green onions, and bacon bits give you baked potato flavors without the carbs.
How to Store Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. This chicken bakes up perfectly for meal prep, so make extra and enjoy easy lunches!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep my chicken from drying out?
Brush it with extra olive oil before baking and don’t overcook—use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Can I make this with chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and work great. Just adjust your cooking time slightly, as they may need a couple more minutes.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375 degrees F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What’s the best way to reheat baked chicken?
Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F for 10-15 minutes, or in a large skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
There are lots of easy keto chicken recipes out there for the whole family. I’d love to hear what some of your favorite keto chicken breast recipes are!
If you love this keto baked chicken recipe, please give it a five-star review and share it with your friends on Facebook and Pinterest!
Happy cooking!
Keto Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 chicken breasts
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
- Place chicken breasts in a 9" x 13" baking dish or sheet pan and drizzle the olive oil over top. Flip the chicken around and rub the olive oil all over.
- In a small bowl, mix together the spices.
- Season the chicken with the paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the internal temperature of an inserted meat thermometer reads 165 F.
Nutrition
Hi. How much would you change the cooking time if using chicken tenders instead of full breasts?
You could subtract a few minutes but the best method of knowing for sure is with a meat thermometer – internal temp should be 165.
My husband is prediabetic and is controlling it through a keto diet. I made this chicken last week, and he loved it – the chicken was very moist and versatile in a number of dishes. It will be a weekly prep staple in our house! Thank you!
So glad that you enjoyed <3