Keto Chicken Spinach Tomato Skillet Quick Dinner Recipe

Name: Keto Chicken Spinach Tomato Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and trimmed; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; to taste salt and pepper; ¼ cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; for garnish fresh basil leaves

by Emily on March 20, 2025

Are you looking for a quick and tasty dinner that fits your keto lifestyle? You’re in the right place! In this blog post, I’ll guide you through making a delicious Keto Chicken Spinach Tomato Skillet. With just a few fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!

$- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces - 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and trimmed - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - ¼ cup heavy cream - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional) When choosing your chicken, look for thighs that are pink and firm. The skin should be smooth and free of blemishes. For spinach, choose bright green leaves with no yellow or brown spots. Cherry tomatoes should be plump and shiny. A good olive oil should smell fresh and fruity. Always check the expiration date on your cream and cheese to ensure freshness. If you want a leaner option, swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts. For a dairy-free version, replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese. If you need a low-sodium meal, use salt-free seasoning blends and fresh herbs. You can also add more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrients. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 2. Add 1 pound of bite-sized chicken thighs. Season with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. 3. Sauté the chicken until it is golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 7-10 minutes. 4. Next, add 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until you smell the garlic. 5. Then, stir in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. 6. Lower the heat and add ¼ cup of heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. 7. Fold in 2 cups of fresh spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until it wilts. 8. Remove the skillet from the heat and mix in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce. 9. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. - Prep Time: 10 minutes - Cook Time: 20 minutes - Total Time: 30 minutes - Servings: 4 - Large skillet - Wooden spoon or spatula - Knife and cutting board - Measuring cups and spoons - Serving dish or plates This quick dinner recipe is simple and full of flavor. Enjoy making it tonight! Each serving of this Keto Chicken Spinach Tomato Skillet has about: - Calories: 400 - Protein: 30g - Fat: 30g - Carbohydrates: 8g - Fiber: 2g - Net Carbs: 6g - Chicken Thighs: High in protein, they help build muscle and keep you full. - Spinach: Packed with vitamins A and K, it supports eye health and bone strength. - Cherry Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants, they may lower the risk of heart disease. - Olive Oil: A healthy fat, it helps reduce inflammation and improve heart health. - Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess and provides healthy fats for energy. This dish fits perfectly into a keto diet. It has low carbs and high fat. The net carbs are only 6g per serving. This allows you to enjoy a rich meal while staying within your carb limit. The protein keeps you full longer, reducing cravings. Plus, the tasty flavors make it a satisfying choice for any dinner. Pro Tips Use Thighs for Flavor: Chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicier than chicken breasts, making them perfect for this dish. Fresh Herbs Matter: Using fresh basil as a garnish not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful touch to the presentation. Adjust Creaminess: For a richer sauce, you can increase the amount of heavy cream or add a splash of chicken broth for extra depth. Perfectly Seasoned: Always taste your dish before serving; adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to ensure the best flavor. {{image_2}} When making Keto Chicken Spinach Tomato Skillet, avoid these common errors: - Overcrowding the skillet: This can steam the chicken instead of browning it. Cook in batches if needed. - Not seasoning enough: Season the chicken well to enhance the flavor. Don't skip the salt and pepper! - Adding spinach too early: Add spinach at the end to keep it bright and fresh. To cook chicken perfectly, follow these steps: 1. Choose the right cut: Boneless, skinless thighs work well. They stay juicy and tender. 2. Preheat the skillet: Heat the olive oil until it's hot before adding chicken. 3. Don’t rush it: Let the chicken cook without stirring for a few minutes. This helps achieve a nice brown color. 4. Use a meat thermometer: Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe to eat. For a great meal, try these serving ideas: - Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic look. - Pair with cauliflower rice for extra fiber without the carbs. - Top with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. - Add a side salad for crunch and freshness. You can switch up the chicken in this dish. Try using shrimp or tofu for a new taste. Both options cook quickly and add a unique flavor to the skillet. You can also change the spices. Instead of smoked paprika, try curry powder or chili flakes for extra heat. For a twist, add sun-dried tomatoes or olives to deepen the flavor. For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken. Use mushrooms instead; they add a nice texture. You can replace the heavy cream with coconut milk. It gives a rich taste without dairy. Also, try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Add some chopped bell peppers or zucchini for more veggies. They cook well and add color. You could also toss in some cooked quinoa or lentils for added fiber and protein. A handful of nuts, like walnuts or pine nuts, can add crunch and healthy fats. These add-ins make your meal more filling and nutritious. To store leftovers, let the dish cool first. Then place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to one month. Just make sure to reheat it well before serving. Yes, you can make this dish in advance. Cook it fully, then cool it down. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove until hot. This method keeps the flavors fresh. Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can portion it into containers after cooking. It reheats well, making it perfect for busy days. Plus, it’s low-carb and fits into a keto diet nicely. Enjoy a healthy meal whenever you want! This post explained how to create a tasty Keto Chicken Spinach Tomato Skillet. We covered the ingredients you'll need, tips for picking fresh ones, and how to substitute ingredients for dietary needs. I gave you step-by-step cooking instructions, tools, and time needed. We explored the dish’s health benefits and nutritional value. Plus, I shared tips to help you avoid common mistakes. You can try variations for more flavors and answers to your common questions. With these steps, you'll cook delicious meals confidently every time.$

Why I Love This Recipe

Convenient One-Pan Meal: This recipe brings together all the delicious flavors in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze!
Rich and Creamy Sauce: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan creates a luxurious sauce that elevates the dish.
Low-Carb Delight: Perfect for those on a keto diet, this dish is hearty without the carbs, satisfying cravings without guilt.
Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes adds vibrant color and nutrition, making it a healthy choice.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients with Measurements

– 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and trimmed

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– ¼ cup heavy cream

– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Tips for Selecting Fresh Ingredients

When choosing your chicken, look for thighs that are pink and firm. The skin should be smooth and free of blemishes. For spinach, choose bright green leaves with no yellow or brown spots. Cherry tomatoes should be plump and shiny. A good olive oil should smell fresh and fruity. Always check the expiration date on your cream and cheese to ensure freshness.

Suggested Substitutions for Dietary Needs

If you want a leaner option, swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts. For a dairy-free version, replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese. If you need a low-sodium meal, use salt-free seasoning blends and fresh herbs. You can also add more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Detailed Cooking Steps

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add 1 pound of bite-sized chicken thighs. Season with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika.

3. Sauté the chicken until it is golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 7-10 minutes.

4. Next, add 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until you smell the garlic.

5. Then, stir in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.

6. Lower the heat and add ¼ cup of heavy cream. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

7. Fold in 2 cups of fresh spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until it wilts.

8. Remove the skillet from the heat and mix in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce.

9. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Cooking Time Breakdown

– Prep Time: 10 minutes

– Cook Time: 20 minutes

– Total Time: 30 minutes

– Servings: 4

Recommended Tools & Equipment

– Large skillet

– Wooden spoon or spatula

– Knife and cutting board

– Measuring cups and spoons

– Serving dish or plates

This quick dinner recipe is simple and full of flavor. Enjoy making it tonight!

Nutritional Information

Nutritional Breakdown per Serving

Each serving of this Keto Chicken Spinach Tomato Skillet has about:

– Calories: 400

– Protein: 30g

– Fat: 30g

– Carbohydrates: 8g

– Fiber: 2g

– Net Carbs: 6g

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

– Chicken Thighs: High in protein, they help build muscle and keep you full.

– Spinach: Packed with vitamins A and K, it supports eye health and bone strength.

– Cherry Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants, they may lower the risk of heart disease.

– Olive Oil: A healthy fat, it helps reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

– Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess and provides healthy fats for energy.

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Information

This dish fits perfectly into a keto diet. It has low carbs and high fat. The net carbs are only 6g per serving. This allows you to enjoy a rich meal while staying within your carb limit. The protein keeps you full longer, reducing cravings. Plus, the tasty flavors make it a satisfying choice for any dinner.

Pro Tips

Use Thighs for Flavor: Chicken thighs are more flavorful and juicier than chicken breasts, making them perfect for this dish.
Fresh Herbs Matter: Using fresh basil as a garnish not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful touch to the presentation.
Adjust Creaminess: For a richer sauce, you can increase the amount of heavy cream or add a splash of chicken broth for extra depth.
Perfectly Seasoned: Always taste your dish before serving; adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to ensure the best flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Keto Chicken Spinach Tomato Skillet, avoid these common errors:

– Overcrowding the skillet: This can steam the chicken instead of browning it. Cook in batches if needed.

– Not seasoning enough: Season the chicken well to enhance the flavor. Don’t skip the salt and pepper!

– Adding spinach too early: Add spinach at the end to keep it bright and fresh.

How to Perfectly Cook Chicken

To cook chicken perfectly, follow these steps:

1. Choose the right cut: Boneless, skinless thighs work well. They stay juicy and tender.

2. Preheat the skillet: Heat the olive oil until it’s hot before adding chicken.

3. Don’t rush it: Let the chicken cook without stirring for a few minutes. This helps achieve a nice brown color.

4. Use a meat thermometer: Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe to eat.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

For a great meal, try these serving ideas:

– Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic look.

– Pair with cauliflower rice for extra fiber without the carbs.

– Top with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.

– Add a side salad for crunch and freshness.

Variations

Alternative Ingredients for Different Flavors

You can switch up the chicken in this dish. Try using shrimp or tofu for a new taste. Both options cook quickly and add a unique flavor to the skillet. You can also change the spices. Instead of smoked paprika, try curry powder or chili flakes for extra heat. For a twist, add sun-dried tomatoes or olives to deepen the flavor.

Vegetarian and Dairy-Free Adaptations

For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken. Use mushrooms instead; they add a nice texture. You can replace the heavy cream with coconut milk. It gives a rich taste without dairy. Also, try nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Possible Add-ins for Extra Nutrients

Add some chopped bell peppers or zucchini for more veggies. They cook well and add color. You could also toss in some cooked quinoa or lentils for added fiber and protein. A handful of nuts, like walnuts or pine nuts, can add crunch and healthy fats. These add-ins make your meal more filling and nutritious.

FAQs

How do I store leftover Keto Chicken Spinach Tomato Skillet?

To store leftovers, let the dish cool first. Then place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to one month. Just make sure to reheat it well before serving.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this dish in advance. Cook it fully, then cool it down. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove until hot. This method keeps the flavors fresh.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can portion it into containers after cooking. It reheats well, making it perfect for busy days. Plus, it’s low-carb and fits into a keto diet nicely. Enjoy a healthy meal whenever you want!

This post explained how to create a tasty Keto Chicken Spinach Tomato Skillet. We covered the ingredients you’ll need, tips for picking fresh ones, and how to substitute ingredients for dietary needs. I gave you step-by-step cooking instructions, tools, and time needed.

We explored the dish’s health benefits and nutritional value. Plus, I shared tips to help you avoid common mistakes. You can try variations for more flavors and answers to your common questions. With these steps, you’ll cook delicious meals confidently every tim

Keto Chicken Spinach Tomato Skillet

A delicious low-carb dish featuring chicken, spinach, and tomatoes, perfect for a quick meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Course Main Course

Cuisine Keto

Servings 4

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups fresh spinach, washed and trimmed
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
to taste salt and pepper
¼ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
for garnish fresh basil leaves

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and smoked paprika. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the cream thickens slightly.
Fold in the fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Notes

Serve directly from the pan for a rustic look, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

Keyword chicken, keto, low carb, quick meal, skillet