After a busy day, dinner should be simple—but never boring. These low-carb chicken dinners are packed with flavor and come together quickly, without relying on rice, pasta, or bread to feel complete.
Chicken is a weeknight superstar: it’s lean, quick to cook, and a blank canvas for just about any flavor.
Whether you crave creamy, spicy, or fresh and herby, this list has 20 easy recipes that skip the carbs and deliver the comfort.
1. Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs With Zucchini
Crispy-edged chicken thighs simmer in a buttery garlic sauce that clings to the pan. The fat renders beautifully, infusing the zucchini slices with rich, savory depth.
A squeeze of lemon wakes up the flavors, and a sprinkle of herbs makes it feel extra fresh. It’s comfort food made in one skillet, and it’s done before the dishes pile up.
2. Lemon Herb Chicken With Cauliflower Rice
Pan-seared chicken breasts get a golden crust before being tossed in a vibrant mix of lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped fresh herbs. The acidity cuts through the richness, giving the dish lift.
Served over fluffy cauliflower rice, it’s light but satisfying. Add steamed spinach or kale on the side for extra greens with no fuss.
3. Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Shredded chicken is bathed in spicy buffalo sauce and loaded into cold, crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves. The contrast between hot and cool makes every bite pop.
Top with chopped celery, crumbled blue cheese, or ranch drizzle. It’s like wings, reimagined for clean eating.
4. Creamy Tuscan Chicken (No Pasta Needed)
A garlicky cream sauce rich with sun-dried tomatoes and wilted spinach coats perfectly seared chicken breasts. The flavors are bold, buttery, and deeply comforting.
Serve with roasted broccoli or cauliflower mash to soak up the sauce. No pasta needed—it’s luxurious as-is.
5. Grilled Chicken With Avocado Salsa
Juicy grilled chicken gets a zesty upgrade with a topping of diced avocado, tomato, red onion, and lime juice. The salsa adds coolness and contrast.
The char from the grill balances the creaminess of the avocado. It’s simple, colorful, and perfect for summer nights.
6. One-Pan Chicken And Broccoli Stir-Fry
Sliced chicken breast and broccoli florets sizzle together in a garlicky, ginger-spiked soy sauce. It’s quick, crisp, and savory with a just-sweet-enough glaze.
Everything cooks in one pan, and the sauce thickens as it reduces. Add toasted sesame seeds for crunch and serve hot.
7. Cheddar-Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Butterflied chicken breasts are stuffed with sharp cheddar and baked until bubbling. Each slice reveals a gooey, golden center.
Paprika and garlic powder in the crust bring smoky warmth. It’s indulgent without the carb overload.
8. Keto Chicken Alfredo Over Spaghetti Squash
Creamy Alfredo sauce clings to shreds of roasted spaghetti squash, forming a luscious base for slices of pan-seared chicken. The sauce is thick, cheesy, and made without flour.
Topped with cracked black pepper and fresh parsley, it’s a cozy, low-carb swap for pasta night that still feels indulgent.
9. Baked Chicken With Roasted Brussels Sprouts
This sheet-pan meal is all about crispy skin and caramelized veggies. Chicken thighs roast until golden while halved Brussels sprouts turn nutty and tender.
A quick glaze of balsamic vinegar and mustard adds brightness. One pan, big flavor, and barely any cleanup.
10. Greek Chicken Bowls With Cucumber And Feta
Spiced grilled chicken rests on a chilled bed of chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, olives, and creamy feta. A drizzle of lemony olive oil pulls it all together.
Fresh herbs and a spoonful of tzatziki give it extra lift. It’s a low-carb bowl that’s endlessly refreshing.
11. Chicken Parmesan (Low-Carb, No Breading)
Chicken breasts are pan-seared and topped with tangy marinara and bubbling mozzarella—no breading required. The cheese crisps at the edges while the sauce stays bright.
Serve over sautéed spinach or roasted eggplant. It’s all the comfort of classic chicken parm without the carb-heavy crust.
12. Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Thighs
A bold chimichurri of parsley, garlic, vinegar, and chili coats grilled chicken thighs with herby brightness and heat. The marinade doubles as a sauce.
The result is juicy, earthy, and full of character. Pair with roasted vegetables or grilled zucchini.
13. Coconut Curry Chicken With Steamed Veggies
Tender chicken simmers in a sauce of coconut milk, curry powder, garlic, and ginger. The aroma is warm and inviting.
Add broccoli, bell peppers, or snow peas to round out the bowl. It’s cozy, colorful, and surprisingly fast.
14. Ranch Chicken Bites With Green Beans
Cubed chicken tossed in ranch seasoning bakes quickly on a sheet pan, developing a golden crust. The green beans roast alongside, soaking up flavor.
Finish with a dusting of parmesan or a squeeze of lemon. It’s fast, tasty, and totally craveable.
15. Pesto Chicken Over Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini spirals are tossed in bright green pesto and topped with garlicky grilled chicken. The noodles stay firm and fresh.
Pine nuts and parmesan bring richness and crunch. A perfect way to skip pasta without missing a beat.
16. Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders
Strips of chicken get hugged in smoky bacon and baked until crisp. They’re juicy inside and packed with flavor.
Serve with a side of roasted asparagus or cauliflower mash. A low-effort dinner that always impresses.
17. Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets (Almond Flour Crust)
Almond flour mixed with Parmesan creates a crunchy, golden coating in the air fryer. The chicken inside stays moist and flavorful.
Serve with a side salad or atop cauliflower risotto. It’s breaded chicken without the bread.
18. Southwest Chicken Salad With Lime Dressing
Spiced grilled chicken, avocado, and bell peppers top a base of romaine and shredded cabbage. A lime vinaigrette adds brightness.
It’s crunchy, juicy, and balanced, with all the flavor of taco night—minus the tortillas.
19. Garlic Mushroom Chicken Skillet
Chicken thighs sear in garlic butter before mushrooms join the pan. Together, they make a silky, savory sauce.
A splash of cream or broth pulls it all together. Serve straight from the skillet with a sprinkle of herbs.
20. Spicy Peanut Chicken Lettuce Boats
Shredded chicken is tossed in a rich, spicy peanut sauce and spooned into cold lettuce leaves. Topped with carrots, scallions, and chopped nuts, it hits all the textures.
Crunchy, creamy, and packed with umami, it’s a fast, fun way to switch things up on weeknights.