Keto Pan-Seared Chicken with Herb Butter Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy pan-seared chicken breasts topped with a fragrant herb butter sauce, perfect for a low-carb, high-protein meal. This general-inspired keto (keto, low carb) ready in about 25 minutes blends salt, black pepper, olive oil 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 380 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.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 2 380 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts and season both sides with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  3. Step 3: Remove the chicken from the skillet and tent with foil to rest.
  4. Step 4: Lower the heat to medium, add 3 tbsp unsalted butter to the same skillet, and melt. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Add 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Stir the herb butter sauce for 1 minute until slightly thickened.
  6. Step 6: Pour the herb butter sauce over the rested chicken breasts and serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Keto Pan-Seared Chicken with Herb Butter Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Keto Pan-Seared Chicken with Herb Butter 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 Pan-Seared Chicken with Herb Butter 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 Pan-Seared Chicken with Herb Butter 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 Pan-Seared Chicken with Herb Butter Sauce keto?

Yes — this recipe is tagged keto, low carb, 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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