This Low Carb Buffalo Chicken recipe is a flavor-packed dish that perfectly balances spicy, tangy, and savory notes. It’s the ideal meal for anyone seeking a satisfying option without the carbs, making it a fantastic choice for those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle. With tender chicken smothered in a zesty buffalo sauce and complemented by a creamy ranch dressing, this dish is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this recipe for its bold flavors and simplicity. The spicy buffalo sauce pairs beautifully with the tender chicken, creating a dish that is both satisfying and indulgent without the added carbs. It’s quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it adheres well to low-carb and keto dietary plans, allowing you to enjoy delicious food while staying on track with your health goals.
Tips and Tricks
- For an extra kick, add more hot sauce to the buffalo sauce mixture. You can also toss in some crushed red pepper flakes for an additional layer of heat.
- If time permits, marinate the chicken in the buffalo sauce for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- Consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result. They also hold up well against the bold flavors of buffalo sauce.
- For a quick clean-up, line your baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper before placing the chicken.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the chicken in the buffalo sauce the night before, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply. If you have leftover chicken, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well; just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Recipe Variations
- You can swap out the chicken for cauliflower florets for a vegetarian option. Coat them in the buffalo sauce and roast until crispy.
- For a milder version, use a barbecue sauce instead of buffalo sauce, or mix the two for a sweet and spicy combination.
- Try adding cheese on top of the chicken in the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy buffalo chicken bake.
- For different cooking methods, consider grilling the chicken for that smoky flavor or using an instant pot to speed up the cooking time.
How to Serve
Serve the buffalo chicken hot, drizzled with ranch or blue cheese dressing. For a complete meal, plate it alongside celery sticks and carrot sticks for crunch. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve it on a bed of lettuce as a buffalo chicken salad.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with an ice-cold glass of unsweetened iced tea or a light beer. For a more festive approach, consider serving it with a classic margarita. As for sides, consider a side of cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a fresh garden salad to keep the meal low-carb.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
- Baking dish or sheet pan
- Mixing bowl for the sauce
- Meat thermometer to check doneness
- Optional: grill or instant pot for alternative cooking methods
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, swap the ranch dressing for a dairy-free version or omit it entirely. For a vegan option, use cauliflower florets instead of chicken and ensure the buffalo sauce is vegan-friendly. You might also want to incorporate a vegan ranch dressing made with cashews or tofu.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, you can add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresher taste. In the fall or winter, consider incorporating roasted vegetables alongside the chicken for a heartier meal. You can also use seasonal hot sauces or spice blends that reflect the time of year.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
- What can I substitute for buffalo sauce? You can use a mix of hot sauce and melted butter or a milder barbecue sauce.
- How do I prevent the chicken from drying out? Ensure you monitor the cooking time closely and let the chicken rest after cooking.
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, chicken breasts work well, just be cautious not to overcook them.
How To Make low carb buffalo chicken recipe
Low Carb Buffalo Chicken
This Low Carb Buffalo Chicken recipe is a flavor-packed dish that perfectly balances spicy, tangy, and savory notes.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the buffalo sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken in a baking dish and pour the buffalo sauce mixture over the top, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 563Total Fat 25gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 18gCholesterol 237mgSodium 1145mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 0gSugar 1gProtein 79g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This low carb buffalo chicken recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavor that anyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions. It’s easy to prepare, packed with protein, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this buffalo chicken is sure to satisfy. Give it a try, and I guarantee it will become a favorite in your home!