Keto Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs with Garlic Cream Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy chicken thighs baked with a golden herb crust, served in a rich, velvety garlic-cream sauce that's perfectly low-carb and high-satiety. This american-inspired chicken (keto, high protein) ready in about 40 minutes blends boneless chicken thighs, avocado oil, minced garlic cloves into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 480 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 3.6 (8 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 25 min Serves 2 American cuisine 480 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat 12 oz boneless chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then rub with 3 tbsp avocado oil, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Arrange chicken in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle evenly with 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, 1 tsp chopped rosemary, and 4 minced garlic cloves.
  3. Step 3: Bake for 22-25 minutes until chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through.
  4. Step 4: While chicken bakes, whisk 1/4 cup heavy cream, 2 oz softened cream cheese, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until melted and smooth, stirring constantly for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  5. Step 5: Remove chicken from oven, let rest 5 minutes. Pour the warm garlic-cream sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is generously coated, and garnish with remaining thyme.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Keto Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs with Garlic Cream Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 40 minutes (15 min prep + 25 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Keto Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs with Garlic Cream Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Keto Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs with Garlic Cream Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Keto Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs with Garlic Cream Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Keto Herb-Crusted Chicken Thighs with Garlic Cream Sauce keto?

Yes — this recipe is tagged keto, high protein based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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