This Keto Creamy Ground Chicken Mushroom Florentine is a delectable low-carb dish that combines savory ground chicken, earthy mushrooms, and tender spinach in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for those following a ketogenic diet who crave a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add ground chicken to the skillet, cooking until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender, approximately 5 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well incorporated.
- Season the mixture with ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Fold in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Nutrients
Per Serving:
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbs: 4g
The Appeal of Keto Creamy Ground Chicken Mushroom Florentine
One of the reasons this dish is so appealing is its perfect balance of richness and nutrition. The cream sauce provides a velvety texture, while the mushrooms add an earthy depth. Spinach contributes both freshness and a boost of vitamins and minerals, making this a well-rounded meal. Unlike many creamy dishes that rely on flour or starch for thickening, this recipe uses heavy cream and cheese, keeping it completely keto-friendly while maintaining a smooth, luxurious consistency.
For those following a ketogenic diet, it can sometimes be challenging to find meals that are both satisfying and aligned with dietary goals. This dish fits the bill by providing high-quality fats, moderate protein, and minimal carbohydrates. The ingredients used not only enhance flavor but also offer essential nutrients that support overall well-being.
Health Benefits of the Ingredients
This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with nutritious ingredients that contribute to a healthy diet.
Ground chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build muscle and keeps you feeling full longer. Unlike fattier cuts of meat, ground chicken offers a balance of protein and fat, making it a great choice for those on a keto diet who want to maintain a controlled intake of macronutrients.
Mushrooms are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They provide fiber, which aids digestion, and essential nutrients like selenium and B vitamins that support brain function and immune health. Mushrooms also contribute an umami depth to the dish, making it extra savory without the need for additional seasoning.
Spinach is a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and magnesium. It enhances the dish with a slight natural sweetness and a pop of color while offering numerous health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced inflammation. Plus, spinach is naturally low in carbs, making it an ideal vegetable for keto-friendly meals.
Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese add richness and contribute to the creamy texture of the sauce. Heavy cream is an excellent source of healthy fats, which provide sustained energy while keeping the dish indulgent. Parmesan cheese brings a sharp, salty flavor while also supplying calcium and protein.
Olive oil, used for sautéing, is a heart-healthy fat that contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It enhances the dish with a light fruity flavor and supports overall health by providing monounsaturated fats.
Ideal Occasions for Enjoying This Dish
This recipe is highly versatile and can be enjoyed on a variety of occasions. It works well as a quick and easy dinner for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. The one-pan preparation makes cleanup effortless, making it a convenient choice for those with a hectic schedule.
For those hosting a dinner party or gathering, this dish makes an elegant main course. Its creamy consistency and rich taste make it a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with keto-friendly sides like roasted vegetables or cauliflower mash. It’s also great for meal prepping, as it stores well in the fridge and can be reheated for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is both satisfying and impressive, offering a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Customization and Variations
While the classic version of this dish is already full of flavor, there are several ways to customize it to suit different preferences or dietary needs.
For those who prefer a different protein source, ground turkey can be used instead of ground chicken. Turkey has a similar texture and flavor profile while offering slightly different nutritional benefits.
If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce can give the dish an extra kick. This complements the creamy elements and adds an extra layer of complexity.
To increase the umami factor, consider adding a small amount of sun-dried tomatoes or capers. These ingredients bring a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the cream sauce.
For a cheesier variation, shredded mozzarella or Gruyère can be mixed in with the Parmesan. This will create an even more decadent, melty texture that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
Those who want an even lower-carb version can reduce the amount of onion or replace it with shallots, which provide a milder, slightly sweeter flavor without increasing the carb count significantly.
Tips for the Best Keto Creamy Ground Chicken Mushroom Florentine
Use fresh spinach instead of frozen for the best texture and flavor. Frozen spinach tends to release excess water, which can thin out the sauce and dilute the flavors. If using frozen spinach, be sure to drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.
Cook the mushrooms properly to bring out their full flavor. Allow them to release their moisture and brown slightly before adding other ingredients. This enhances their earthy taste and ensures they don’t make the dish watery.
Simmer the sauce gently to prevent the cream from separating. Overheating dairy-based sauces can lead to curdling, so keeping the heat low once the cream is added helps maintain a smooth and creamy consistency.
Season gradually and adjust as needed. Parmesan cheese is naturally salty, so it’s best to add salt slowly and taste the dish before adding more.
Storing and Reheating
This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep it fresh, store it in an airtight container and reheat it on low heat in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent separation. If the sauce thickens too much when reheating, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth can help restore its consistency.
For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to a month. However, keep in mind that the texture of the sauce may change slightly after freezing. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently on the stove while stirring frequently.
Conclusion
Keto Creamy Ground Chicken Mushroom Florentine is a dish that beautifully blends comfort and nutrition, making it an excellent choice for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle. The combination of tender ground chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and creamy Parmesan sauce creates a satisfying meal that doesn’t feel restrictive. Whether you make it for a quick dinner, a special occasion, or meal prep for the week, this dish is sure to impress with its rich taste and simple yet elegant preparation. With its versatility, health benefits, and easy customization options, it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a keto-friendly meal that is both delicious and nourishing.