Chicken and Asparagus Skillet with Frozen Chicken Breast

This easy one-pan dish combines tender asparagus and juicy chicken, making it a perfect keto meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless frozen chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 4 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (to compensate for the longer cooking time)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or your choice of herbs)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional, for added flavor)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving; check for low-carb versions)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook Frozen Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the frozen chicken breasts directly to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). If necessary, cover the skillet to help cook the chicken evenly.
2. Remove and Slice: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet, let it cool for a few minutes, then slice it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Cook Asparagus: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the asparagus pieces and sauté until they are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Combine: Return the sliced chicken back into the skillet with the asparagus, toss everything together, and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
5. Serve: Plate the chicken and asparagus, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Flavor Profile: This dish remains a wonderful combination of savory chicken and fresh asparagus, with herbs enhancing the dish's appeal. The slightly longer cooking time allows for the chicken to absorb flavors from the oil and seasonings.

Keto-Friendly Explanation: Using frozen chicken breast is a practical choice for keto cooking, as it maintains low carbohydrate levels while allowing for convenience. The healthy fats from the olive oil contribute to the dish's richness, making this meal both satisfying and compliant with your ketogenic lifestyle.

If you have any more questions or need further adjustments, feel free to ask! Happy cooking!