If you’re a fan of rich, savory flavors, you’re going to love this keto brown butter chicken.
This recipe brings together juicy, tender chicken with the nutty, deep flavors of browned butter, making it a fantastic addition to your keto meal rotation.
Not only is this dish incredibly flavorful, but it’s also easy to make, which means you can enjoy a gourmet meal without all the fuss.
Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy chicken in a new, exciting way that keeps you in line with your keto goals.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Keto Brown Butter Chicken is the perfect combination of richness and simplicity.
The browned butter adds a layer of flavor that elevates this dish without requiring a ton of extra ingredients.
As a keto-friendly recipe, it’s low in carbs but high in healthy fats, making it great for anyone following the ketogenic lifestyle.
Not only will it keep you full and satisfied, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of keto-friendly sides like zucchini noodles or a simple salad.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish will impress.
My Personal Experience
I first stumbled upon the idea of brown butter chicken when I was craving something that felt decadent but didn’t break my keto commitment. I remember the moment I tried it—I was hooked instantly. The nutty flavor from the browned butter perfectly complemented the chicken, and it felt like a special treat without any of the guilt. Since then, it’s become a regular in my recipe rotation. It’s simple, flavorful, and always feels like a little indulgence. I promise you, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Required Equipment
A Large Skillet
A good, heavy-bottomed skillet is essential for this recipe. You’ll be cooking the chicken and then browning the butter in the same pan, so you want a pan that can handle both tasks. The even heat distribution of a well-made skillet will ensure the chicken gets a nice sear and that the butter doesn’t burn when browning.
Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is your best friend when making sure the chicken is cooked through but still tender and juicy. It’s easy to overcook chicken, and a thermometer will give you that perfect, no-guesswork result every time.
Tongs or a Spatula
When flipping the chicken, tongs or a spatula are key to making sure the chicken stays intact and gets that nice sear on both sides. I find tongs work best because they let me hold the chicken and turn it without any mess.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken breasts or thighs (4 pieces)
The main ingredient! Chicken breasts give you lean meat with great texture, but thighs can add a bit more fat for an even richer flavor. Both work wonderfully in this recipe.
Substitution: Chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer more fat or juiciness. - Butter (1/2 cup)
The secret to this recipe’s rich flavor! Browning the butter enhances its nutty, caramel-like flavor, which makes the dish feel indulgent.
Substitution: You can use ghee if you want a more stable, longer-shelf-life fat with similar flavor. - Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
Adds a savory and aromatic base to the sauce. It complements the browned butter beautifully.
Substitution: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be used if you prefer a more herbaceous twist. - Fresh lemon juice (2 tbsp)
A splash of lemon juice brightens the dish, balancing the richness of the butter.
Substitution: White wine or apple cider vinegar can be used for a tangy alternative. - Salt & pepper to taste
Simple seasoning that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
How to Make Keto Brown Butter Chicken
- Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. I love using fresh ground black pepper for an extra kick, but regular pepper works fine too. - Brown the Butter
Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Let it melt and bubble, then watch closely as it begins to brown. The butter will turn golden and develop a nutty aroma. Stir constantly to prevent burning—this process is fast, so don’t walk away! - Cook the Chicken
Once the butter is browned, add the chicken to the skillet. Sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until it develops a nice golden brown color. Use the meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken. - Add Garlic & Lemon
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and stir everything together to create a simple, flavorful sauce. - Combine and Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to coat in the browned butter sauce for another minute or two. This lets the flavors infuse into the chicken. Then serve hot, and enjoy!
Tips for This Recipe
- Use Bone-In Chicken for extra flavor. Bone-in chicken thighs are perfect for this dish, but boneless will work just fine too.
- Don’t Overcook the Butter! Browning the butter is the key to this recipe, so pay close attention to it. You want a nice golden color, not burnt butter.
- Rest the Chicken before serving. Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking keeps it juicy and tender.
Optional Additions
Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, can be sprinkled on top to add an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Ideas
Serve this keto brown butter chicken with some simple sides like zucchini noodles, mashed cauliflower, or roasted Brussels sprouts. You can also add a creamy side salad to keep the meal light yet satisfying.
Storage Recommendations
This recipe keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over low heat to preserve the texture of the chicken. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the skin won’t be as crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken with skin on?
Absolutely! In fact, chicken with skin adds more flavor and keeps the meat moist. Just be sure to crisp the skin up in the pan. - Can I substitute the butter with olive oil?
While olive oil is a good alternative, the flavor won’t be quite as rich. The browned butter is what makes this dish special, so I recommend sticking with it if you can.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Total Carbs: 1g
- Net Carbs: 1g
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 25g