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Low Carb BBQ Chicken Skillet - A Fast, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus 1 teaspoon if needed)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or chipotle powder (optional for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2/3 cup no-sugar-added BBQ sauce (check labels; see FAQ for suggestions)
  • 2 tablespoons chicken broth or water (more as needed)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for brightness)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for a velvety finish)
  • Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish
  • Serving ideas: cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or lettuce leaves

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Toss to coat evenly.
  2. Heat the pan: Warm 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
  3. Sear the chicken: Add the chicken in a single layer. Cook 4–6 minutes, stirring once or twice, until lightly browned and just cooked through. Transfer to a plate. If the pan looks dry, add 1 teaspoon oil.
  4. Cook the veggies: Add sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt. Cook 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp-tender with a few charred edges.
  5. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Don’t let it burn.
  6. Make it saucy: Return the chicken and any juices to the pan. Stir in the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. Reduce heat to medium and simmer 2–3 minutes until the sauce clings.
  7. Finish and adjust: Stir in the butter for a glossy finish (optional). Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and heat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more broth; if too thin, simmer another minute.
  8. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. Spoon over cauliflower rice, toss with zucchini noodles, or tuck into lettuce wraps.