Save Savor the ultimate low-carb comfort meal with these Keto Bacon Ranch Chicken Thighs. Juicy chicken thighs are seasoned to perfection with a zesty ranch blend and roasted until the skin is golden and the bacon is irresistibly crisp. Paired with tender-crisp green beans, this one-pan dinner is a flavor-packed solution for busy weeknights.
Save The secret to this dish is the way the chicken and bacon juices meld with the ranch seasoning, creating a natural sauce that flavors the green beans as they roast. It is a simple yet sophisticated way to elevate standard chicken thighs into a gourmet keto experience.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Marinade
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (sugar-free)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Bacon
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- Green Beans
- 350 g (12 oz) fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Garnish (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss chicken thighs until well coated.
- Step 3
- Arrange chicken thighs skin-side up in a large ovenproof skillet or baking dish. Sprinkle chopped bacon evenly over and around the chicken.
- Step 4
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
- Step 5
- While chicken is baking, toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Step 6
- After 25 minutes, add green beans to the skillet around the chicken. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C) and bacon is crisp.
- Step 7
- Drizzle lemon juice over green beans. Garnish with parsley if desired.
- Step 8
- Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, ensure your green beans are fresh and well-trimmed. If you prefer your bacon extra crispy, you can briefly use the broiler setting for the last 2 minutes of cooking, but be sure to watch the oven closely to avoid burning the ranch seasoning.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To add an extra layer of richness, stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese into the pan juices when adding the green beans. If you are looking for a lighter alternative to pork, turkey bacon makes a fantastic substitute while still providing a smoky flavor.
Serviervorschläge
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance the freshness by serving it with a crisp garden side salad. It also pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed cauliflower or broccoli to soak up the savory bacon and ranch drippings.
Save Indulge in this satisfying 470-calorie meal that balances high protein and healthy fats. It is the perfect recipe for anyone needing a reliable, delicious dinner that stays true to low-carb goals without sacrificing taste.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless thighs work well. Reduce the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes total, as they cook faster than bone-in cuts. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they're fully cooked through.
- → Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes! Cook the dish completely, let it cool, and store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat at 350°F until warmed through. The texture may soften slightly but the flavors remain excellent.
- → What vegetables can I substitute for green beans?
Asparagus, broccoli florets, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower florets all work wonderfully. Adjust cooking time accordingly - asparagus needs about 8 minutes, while broccoli and Brussels sprouts may need 12-15 minutes to become tender.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use a homemade dairy-free ranch seasoning blend with onion powder, garlic powder, dried dill, and parsley. Check that all packaged seasonings are certified dairy-free, as many commercial ranch mixes contain milk powder.
- → How do I get the crispiest chicken skin?
Pat the chicken skin completely dry before seasoning. Arrange the thighs skin-side up and don't crowd the pan. Bake at the higher temperature of 400°F to render the fat and crisp the skin. For extra crunch, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
- → Can I cook this on the grill instead?
Yes! Grill the chicken thighs over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes per side. Wrap the seasoned green beans in foil and place on the grill for 10-12 minutes, turning once. Cook the bacon separately in a skillet or on the grill until crisp, then crumble over the top.