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Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Skillet (High Protein & Satisfying) - One-Pan Comfort Food

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 3 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • 2 cups broccoli florets or zucchini slices
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional for heat)

Method
 

  1. Crisp the bacon: Place the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until golden and crisp, about 6–8 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. Leave 1–2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
  2. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry. Toss with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until coated.
  3. Sear the chicken: Add oil to the skillet if needed. Cook the chicken over medium-high heat in a single layer, 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Sauté the garlic and veggies: Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and broccoli (or zucchini). Sauté 2–3 minutes until bright and slightly tender. Don’t overcook; they’ll finish in the sauce.
  5. Build the sauce: Pour in chicken broth and simmer 1–2 minutes, scraping the browned bits from the pan. Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Add cream and ranch: Stir in heavy cream and ranch seasoning. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened.
  7. Combine and cheese it up: Return the chicken and half the bacon to the skillet. Stir to coat. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top. Cover the pan and cook 2–3 minutes, until cheese melts. Add red pepper flakes if you like heat.
  8. Finish and serve: Top with remaining bacon, green onions, and parsley. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Serve hot as is or with a side salad or cauliflower rice.