Are you looking for delicious and healthy recipes that align with a ketogenic diet, especially if you're facing cancer treatment or recovery? This Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe is a perfect example of how you can enjoy flavorful, satisfying meals while keeping your carbohydrate intake low. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. This recipe focuses on healthy fats and protein, supporting your body's needs during a challenging time. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Creamy Tuscan Chicken hot, garnished with extra basil if desired. This dish is wonderful on its own or served over a bed of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a complete keto-friendly meal.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Work in batches if necessary to ensure the chicken browns properly and doesn't steam.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your taste.
- Make it ahead: This Creamy Tuscan Chicken can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even better the next day!
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other keto-friendly vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It's always recommended to use a nutrition calculator for personalized results.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Net Carbs: Approximately 5-7g
- Fat: Approximately 30-35g
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
This recipe is a delicious and nutritious option for those following a ketogenic diet, especially beneficial for those undergoing cancer treatment. Remember to consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian to determine if a ketogenic diet is appropriate for your individual health needs. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying healthy meal!