Savory garlic butter chicken with crispy bacon and spinach. This delicious dish has less than 8 grams of net carbs and 22g of protein, making it a keto-friendly and high-protein meal.  

What if I told you that you can create a dish that is effortless and indulgent at the same time? This creamy garlic butter chicken with spinach creates the perfect combination of flavors.

Here you get perfectly seasoned chicken thighs simmered in a velvety garlic butter sauce, enhanced with crispy bacon, Parmesan cheese, and vibrant spinach.  

Whether you are looking for a comforting homemade dinner or a meal to impress your guests, this recipe is packed with flavor and caters to any dietary need.

Every bite you take of this recipe is the perfect harmony of savory goodness.

There is something about a creamy sauce and savory bacon that just makes your taste buds dance. And, the best thing is that it only takes 40 minutes to make.

With its decadent sauce and gourmet feel, this dish looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Although we know it took you less than an hour to prepare.

And this meal is the perfect option for keto lovers. With less than 8 grams of net carbs and 22 grams of protein, it’s a low-carb recipe waiting for you to try it.

Ingredients and Substitutes

Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless (6) – You can use chicken breasts for a leaner option, or swap for turkey cutlets.

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Olive oil (1 tbsp) – Replace with avocado oil or flaxseed oil.

Butter (2 tbsp) – Try using ghee for a creamier texture and flavor.

Yellow onion, finely chopped (1 small) – Shallots can replace onions, but they have a sweeter note.

Garlic, minced (6 cloves) – If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic flakes or powder.

Chicken broth (1/3 cup) – For a plant-based option, replace with vegetable stock.

Crispy bacon, cooked (1/2 cup, diced) – You can use turkey bacon for a leaner option.

Heavy cream (1 cup) – If you want the meal to be dairy-free, you can use coconut cream.

Milk (3/4 cup) – Use unsweetened almond milk for a plant-based option.

Italian seasoning (1 tbsp)

Oregano (1 tsp)

Crushed chili pepper flakes (A pinch) – Add more or fewer chili flakes depending on how spicy you like your meals.

Baby spinach leaves (3 cups) – Swap with Swiss chard or kale.

Parmesan cheese, grated (1/2 cup) – You can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a plant-based option.

Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Replace with arrowroot powder if you don’t have cornstarch.

Water (1 tbsp)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken with Spinach

Step 1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

Step 2. Make sure you season both sides.

Step 3. Grab a large skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and the chicken thighs.

Step 4. Sear the chicken thighs for 5-8 minutes on each side until they are all cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5. Add the butter, the onions, and the garlic.

Step 6. Cook the onion and garlic for about 1 minute, or until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 7. Pour the chicken broth and reduce the heat to low.

Step 8. Add the bacon. 

Step 9. Cook the bacon for 1-2 minutes.     

Step 10. Add the heavy cream and milk. Give the ingredients a good mix to combine everything.

Step 11. Add the Italian seasoning, oregano, crushed chili pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

Step 12. Now it’s time to add the spinach. Cook it for a couple of minutes until it wilts.

Step 13. Add the Parmesan cheese.

Step 14. Give the ingredients a good mix.

Step 15. Grab a small bowl and combine the cornstarch with some water.

Step 16. Pour the cornstarch into the skillet and give it a good mix. The sauce should start to thicken.

Transfer the chicken back into the skillet and let them cook for a couple of minutes. Cover all the chicken with sauce and let it simmer.

My Tips & Tricks

1. Sear the chicken: Don’t rush this process. Searing the chicken creates a crispy outer layer, and it locks all those delicious juices.
2. Use fresh ingredients: The recipe turns out better if you use freshly grated Parmesan and just-picked spinach.
3. Adjust the sauce consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add slightly more cornstarch. But, if you prefer a thinner sauce, add more chicken broth.
4. Season as you go: Taste-test with each step to adjust salt, pepper, and chili flakes.

My Storage Tips

This is a great recipe you can use for meal prepping. If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container (just let them cool first).

You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

One of the good news is that you can also put them in the freezer for longer storage. Just make sure you use a freezer-safe container, and you can keep them there for up to 2 months. If you are ready to have it again, I’ve found that it turns out better when you reheat it on the stove over medium heat. If you want to revive the sauce, try adding a splash of chicken broth or milk.