Keto Buffalo Chicken Skillet (Printer-friendly)

One-pan keto buffalo chicken with creamy sauce, sautéed vegetables and melted mozzarella - low-carb comfort in 30 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 small onion, diced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 2 stalks celery, sliced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Sauces & Condiments

06 - 1/3 cup Buffalo hot sauce (ensure keto-friendly)
07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Dairy

08 - 1/4 cup heavy cream
09 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
10 - 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, for garnish)

→ Spices & Seasonings

11 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
14 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

# How To Make It:

01 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add unsalted butter and allow it to melt fully.
02 - Add diced onion, sliced celery, and diced red bell pepper to the melted butter. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until vegetables are softened.
03 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
04 - Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet. Place chicken pieces into the open space, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Sear for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is browned on all sides.
05 - Reduce heat to medium. Redistribute vegetables evenly around the skillet and pour Buffalo hot sauce over chicken and vegetables. Stir thoroughly to coat all components.
06 - Add heavy cream and mix thoroughly to create a creamy sauce. Let simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened.
07 - Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the skillet and cover with a lid. Allow to sit covered for 2 to 3 minutes, until cheese has melted completely.
08 - If desired, garnish with crumbled blue cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • You can make the whole meal in one pan, which secretly means less cleanup after dinner.
  • The bold Buffalo flavors somehow get even more comforting thanks to melty cheese and just the right touch of cream.
02 -
  • I once forgot to pat the chicken dry—it steamed instead of browned, so don’t skip this crucial step for that golden crust.
  • Waiting until after the sauce simmers to salt lets you control the flavor, since brands of Buffalo sauce vary wildly in saltiness.
03 -
  • Searing the chicken in batches if your pan’s crowded guarantees crispy edges on every piece.
  • Letting the sauce bubble before adding cheese ensures every flavor melds into creamy, spicy perfection.