If you are looking for a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy BBQ flavors without the carbs, this Low Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe is going to become your new favorite dinner hack. Juicy, tender chicken thighs are simmered with sweet sautéed onions and smothered in a lower carb BBQ sauce, then finished with melting cheese for that irresistible gooey bite. It is comfort food that effortlessly fits into a low carb lifestyle while delivering all the smoky, tangy goodness you crave.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients are the backbone of this Low Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe. Each one adds a unique element that builds layers of flavor and texture, making the final dish truly outstanding.
- Olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and add a subtle richness to the dish.
- Medium onion: Thinly sliced for a sweet and tender base that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The star protein that stays juicy and flavorful throughout cooking.
- Lower carb BBQ sauce: Brings the classic smoky tang without extra sugars, key for keeping this dish low carb.
- Shredded cheese: Melts beautifully on top, adding creaminess and an irresistible finish.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note as a garnish.
How to Make Low Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté them until they become soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base that gently sweetens the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Thighs
Season the chicken thighs simply with salt and pepper, then place them in the skillet on top of the onions. Cover the skillet and cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, which usually takes about 10 minutes. This method keeps the meat tender and juicy.
Step 3: Shred and Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the heat and use two forks to shred it right in the skillet with the onions. Pour in the lower carb BBQ sauce and stir thoroughly so every shred of chicken is well coated, packing on the smoky, tangy flavor.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Melt
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the saucy chicken, cover the skillet again, and let it melt for 1 to 2 minutes. The cheese adds a luscious creaminess that takes this Low Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe to the next level of comfort food joy.
How to Serve Low Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only makes the dish visually appealing but adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor that perfectly balances the rich BBQ sauce and cheese.
Side Dishes
These chicken thighs pair beautifully with simple low carb sides such as cauliflower rice, grilled vegetables, or a crisp green salad to keep your meal balanced while letting the chicken remain the star.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the shredded BBQ chicken atop lettuce wraps for a handheld option or use it as a filling for low carb tortillas to create tasty wraps. You can even pile it onto keto-friendly flatbreads for a BBQ pizza twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Low Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy weeknight dinners.
Freezing
If you want to keep this delicious dish on hand longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before freezing to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the chicken moist and prevent the cheese from drying out. Alternatively, use a microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this Low Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in thighs will add extra flavor but will require a bit more cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through.
What is the best type of BBQ sauce to use?
Look for a BBQ sauce that is labeled low carb or has no added sugars to keep this recipe true to its low carb roots without sacrificing taste.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep it suitable for dairy-free diets while still enjoying all the BBQ flavors.
Is it possible to bake this instead of cooking on the stove?
Definitely! You can bake the seasoned chicken thighs with onions in a covered dish at 375°F until cooked through, then shred and mix with BBQ sauce before adding cheese and broiling until melted.
How can I add more spice to this dish?
Add some chili powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper while seasoning the chicken for an extra kick that complements the BBQ flavor beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe is a warm, comforting option that radiates smoky, cheesy goodness with none of the carb guilt. It’s easy enough for weeknights but tasty enough to impress your friends or family any day of the week. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
Print
Low Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Delicious and easy Low Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs recipe featuring tender shredded chicken thighs cooked with sautéed onions, coated in low-carb BBQ sauce, and topped with melted cheese for a satisfying, healthy meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- â…“ cup lower carb BBQ sauce
- ½ cup shredded cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the thinly sliced onions until they become soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet with the onions, cover, and cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, approximately 10 minutes.
- Shred and Coat: Remove the skillet from heat and shred the cooked chicken using two forks. Mix the shredded chicken thoroughly with the low-carb BBQ sauce until evenly coated.
- Top with Cheese: Spread the shredded cheese over the BBQ-coated chicken, cover the skillet, and allow the cheese to melt for 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a fresh and colorful finish.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Use a low-carb BBQ sauce to maintain the low carbohydrate content of the dish.
- This recipe can be served over cauliflower rice or with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
