Low-Carb Butternut Chicken Recipe
Introduction:
This delightful Low-Carb Butternut Chicken recipe is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, bringing together the savory richness of nitrate-free bacon with tender boneless, skinless chicken thighs and the natural sweetness of cubed butternut squash. It’s an ideal dish for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, low-carb meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With a blend of crispy bacon, hearty chicken, and seasonal squash, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Nitrate-free bacon | 0.5 lb (225g) |
| Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless | 6 pieces |
| Butternut squash, cubed | 3 cups (450g) |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh chopped sage | 2 tbsp |
| Salt and pepper | As needed |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Medium
Allergen Information:
- Bacon: May contain traces of gluten or other allergens depending on processing.
- Chicken: No known allergens.
- Butternut Squash: A common food allergen, though rare.
- Olive Oil: Typically free from allergens, but always check for potential cross-contamination with other oils.
- Sage: May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Dietary Preferences:
- Low-Carb: This recipe is designed for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
- Gluten-Free: No gluten-containing ingredients are used.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe does not include any dairy.
- Paleo: This recipe can also fit into a paleo diet, given its use of whole, natural ingredients.
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to preheat at 425°F (220°C).
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Crisp the Bacon: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the nitrate-free bacon and cook until it becomes crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
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Crumble the Bacon: Once crispy, transfer the bacon to the side and crumble it into small pieces. Set aside for later.
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Sauté the Squash: Using the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the cubed butternut squash. Sauté the squash, stirring occasionally, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook for about 10 minutes until the squash is tender.
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Remove the Squash: Once the squash is fully cooked and tender, remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the squash to a plate. Set aside.
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Cook the Chicken Thighs: Add the coconut oil to the same skillet and place the boneless chicken thighs into the pan. Cook for about 10 minutes, browning on both sides.
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Season the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper to taste.
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Transfer to the Oven: Once the chicken thighs are browned, remove the skillet from the stove and transfer it to the preheated oven.
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Bake the Chicken: Bake the chicken thighs for 12-15 minutes, or until fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Finish the Dish: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and top the chicken with the crumbled bacon and fresh chopped sage.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Low-Carb Butternut Chicken immediately and enjoy the rich, savory flavors in every bite!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 323 kcal
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 12g
Tips and Advice:
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
- Squash Substitute: If you’re not a fan of butternut squash, you can substitute it with other low-carb vegetables such as zucchini or cauliflower.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add extra veggies, such as spinach or kale, to the dish for additional nutrients and flavor.
- Crispier Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, you can bake it in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes before crumbling it.
Conclusion:
Low-Carb Butternut Chicken offers a satisfying, nutrient-rich meal that’s both filling and delicious without any unnecessary carbs. The combination of crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and tender butternut squash will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. With its easy preparation and comforting flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or simply looking for a fresh twist on chicken, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy!
