Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that aligns perfectly with the carnivore diet? Look no further! This simple chicken recipe is packed with flavor and protein, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal. It's quick, easy, and requires minimal ingredients, making it ideal for even the busiest of cooks. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, for a leaner option)
- 2 tbsp rendered beef tallow or olive oil (for those less strict carnivores)
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional, some consider garlic a non-carnivore food)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder (optional, same consideration as garlic)
Instructions:
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Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using).
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Sear the Chicken: Heat the beef tallow or olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
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Roast to Perfection: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through. This roasting method makes sure the chicken is juicy and flavorful.
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Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When searing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will lower the temperature of the pan and prevent proper browning. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken thighs. Thicker thighs may require a few extra minutes in the oven.
- Get creative with seasonings: Feel free to experiment with other seasonings to suit your taste. Consider adding paprika, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor.
Variations:
- Bone-in chicken: You can use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts for added flavor and richness. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in chicken tends to take longer to cook.
- Pan-fried chicken: For a quicker option, you can pan-fry the chicken instead of roasting it. Simply sear the chicken on both sides over medium-high heat until cooked through.
- Add some fat: Adding a little extra fat, like rendered bacon fat, to the pan can add even more flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is based on a 4-serving recipe using boneless, skinless chicken thighs and 1 tablespoon of beef tallow. Nutritional values will vary based on specific ingredients and portion size.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This simple carnivore chicken recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week. It's a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. It's one of the best recipes for those following a carnivore diet, delivering a satisfying and flavorful experience. Remember to adjust the seasoning to your liking, and enjoy this quick dinner idea!