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Easy Keto Pulled Chicken Recipe 🍗

Priyanka Dogra
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Looking for the tastiest keto chicken recipes that are also simple to make? Check out our Keto Pulled Chicken recipe. It's low-carb, super easy, and packed with flavor. The best part? You only need a few ingredients! Try it out; it might become your top keto comfort food.

Keto pulled chicken in a cast iron skillet ready to be served.

This recipe was developed and written by Priyanka Akhil Dogra, and it was produced, shot and edited by Alejandra Torre and team.

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Preparation and cooking overview

Making this keto pulled chicken is quick and doesn't need marinating. Start by browning the chicken with onions, tomatoes, and Cajun spices. Simmer it until it's fully cooked, let it sit for a few minutes. Then, shred the chicken for a tasty meal!

Chef's note

Get creative with this recipe! Mix your favorite herbs, spices, or veggies to tailor it to your taste. For a zesty touch, drizzle some keto barbecue sauce or sprinkle chili flakes for a bit of heat. You can use the pulled chicken to make the filling for the delicious Keto Stuffed Peppers! And if you fancy a wrap, scoop the chicken into fresh lettuce leaves. Enjoy!

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Resting Time: 2 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 32 Minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 3 Servings

For more inspiration check out our Chicken recipe.

🍗 Ingredients for this keto pulled chicken recipe

You'll need the following simple ingredients to make this low-carb shredded chicken recipe at home:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small red onion, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 small tomato, thinly sliced
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • Juice from ½ lemon
  • 3 fresh lettuce leaves, for serving
The required ingredients including olive oil, sliced red onion, thinly sliced tomato, Cajun seasoning, boneless skinless chicken breast, water, and lemon gathered a displayed on the table.

Ingredient substitutions

Do you see something on the ingredients list you would rather skip? Here are some keto-friendly swaps:

  • Freshly tomatoes: Substitute sliced tomatoes with two tablespoons of tomato paste.
  • Olive oil: If you don't have olive oil, swap it with avocado or coconut oil.
  • Cajun seasoning: If you can't find ready-made Cajun seasoning, use a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
  • Basil leaves: Garnish the pulled chicken with fresh cilantro instead of basil leaves.

Additional ingredients

Elevate the flavors of your pulled chicken with some of these additional ingredients:

  • Fresh garlic cloves: Mince one or two garlic cloves and sauté them with the tomatoes for a richer flavor.
  • Bell pepper: Sauté a thinly sliced bell pepper with the onions to add crunch and color.
  • Red pepper flakes: Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes in the Cajun seasoning for an extra kick of heat.
  • Parmesan cheese: Add about two tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the dish.

Cooking tools required

To make this keto pulled chicken recipe, you'll need the following tools:

  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Knife
  • Chopping board
  • Bowls
  • Cast-iron skillet
  • Spatula
  • Forks
  • Tongs

Tools substitute options

  • Cast-iron skillet: If you don't have a cast-iron skillet, use a regular non-stick pan to cook the chicken.
Low-carb keto pulled chicken in a bowl.

How to make Keto Pulled Chicken: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Sautéing
  • Simmering

Preparation steps

  1. Gather and measure all the ingredients.
  2. Peel the red onion and slice it thinly.
  3. Wash the tomato, basil, and lettuce leaves and pat them dry with paper towels.
  4. Slice the tomato and chop the basil leaves into small pieces.
  5. Pat the chicken filets dry with paper towels.

Cooking instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet and add onions to it.
  2. Cook the onions on low to medium heat for 5 minutes or until evenly brown.
  3. Add tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, and sea salt, and give it a good stir.
  4. Then, add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook slightly on both sides until lightly charred.
  5. Pour water, cover, and cook everything for 15 minutes on medium heat.
  6. Add a little more water halfway if required. Flip the filets, cover them, and cook the chicken until the water evaporates.
  7. Turn off the heat and transfer the chicken breasts to a bowl.
  8. Let them rest for about 2 minutes, and shred with forks.
  9. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shredded chicken and return it to the skillet, mixing well with the remaining gravy.
  10. Serve the chicken shreds over crisp lettuce and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Chef's pro tip

If you want to know how to make shredded chicken that's super flavorful, the trick is to observe the chicken carefully as it simmers. To avoid overcooking, check it before the suggested cooking time ends. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for best results. Follow these steps, and you'll get a tender and juicy chicken every time.

What to serve with keto pulled chicken?

The best thing about this low-carb pulled chicken is that it pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some ideas to get you inspired:

  • Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb rice is the perfect base for pulled chicken, offering a fantastic dinner.
  • Grilled Asparagus: Serve the flavorful chicken shreds with grilled asparagus for a smoky, crunchy side dish.
  • Keto Cornbread: Spread the juicy chicken between slices of low-carb cornbread for a classic chicken sandwich experience.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The roasted Brussels sprouts impart an earthy flavor that balances the spice of the pulled chicken.
  • Keto Creamed Spinach: A simple yet flavorful sautéed spinach adds more greens and a gentle garlicky touch to your chicken meal.
  • Keto Bread: Add shredded chicken, any keto BBQ sauce, pickled zucchini, and enjoy a low-carb snack!

How to make it healthier?

  • Reduce sodium: Choose a Cajun seasoning blend with no added salt, or make your own at home to reduce sodium intake. You can also reduce the amount of salt in the recipe to meet your dietary preferences.
  • Increase veggies: Boost the nutritional content by adding keto-friendly vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers. They'll provide extra fiber and vitamins to your meal.
Homemade keto pulled chicken in a cast iron skillet.

Time-saving tips

  • Buy pre-made Cajun seasoning to save some preparation time.
  • Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to speed up the cooking process.
  • Use an electric mixer with a paddle attachment to shred the chicken faster. Don't mix it too much to avoid a mushy texture.
  • Make a larger batch and freeze the extra pulled chicken for future meals.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Cut the onions, tomatoes, and basil leaves beforehand to streamline the cooking process.

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage tips

  • Allow the leftover chicken shreds to cool to room temperature.
  • Place the leftovers in a clean, airtight container and store them in the fridge. The chicken shreds will remain juicy and tasty for 3-4 days.

Best reheating practices

  • Microwave: Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover—reheat for 2-3 minutes at full power, stirring halfway.
  • Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Reheat for 15-20 minutes.
  • Stove: Add the chicken to a pan on medium heat and heat for 5--10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Note: Add a splash of water or chicken broth over the leftovers while reheating for juicier meat.

Shredding the cooked chicken with two forks in a bowl.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

This Keto Pulled Chicken is a game-changer for anyone on a keto diet, bursting with flavor. The highlight? Make it in large quantities and transform the leftovers into new dishes over the next few days. Serve it atop fresh lettuce, wrap it in lettuce leaves, or team it with cauliflower rice — this versatile dish enhances any meal, from breakfast to dinner.

So, put on that apron, prepare your ingredients, and dive into this culinary delight. Let us know how it turns out – we're eager to hear your feedback.

Want to have fun with this shredded chicken recipe? Add it to the following keto recipes or swap it with other meat options to align with your dietary needs!

Nothing can beat the extra flavor and twist to a basic recipe. Try our Chicken Tinga and Keto Shredded Chicken recipes for a unique flavor profile.

Frequently asked questions

Absolutely! Shredded chicken is keto-compatible because chicken is naturally low in carbs. However, opt for keto-friendly seasonings and vegetables when preparing the dish to ensure it aligns with a keto diet.

In this recipe, the primary carb sources are the seasonings and veggies. A 3-4 ounces serving of our pulled chicken contains approximately 5 grams of net carbs.

Certainly! You can swap out chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Just note that thighs might require a few extra minutes of cooking time.

For optimal results, use a heavy-bottomed pot or pan. A Dutch oven or a deep skillet with a lid would be ideal.

Yes, chicken is perfect for keto enthusiasts. It's a lean protein with virtually no carbs, making it versatile for a range of keto dishes.

Absolutely! You can use the prepared meat to make keto shredded chicken tacos. Just serve the low-carb shredded chicken in keto-friendly tortillas, and top with your favorite keto toppings for a delicious meal. 

📖 Recipe

Cast-iron skillet with homemade keto pulled chicken ready to be served.

Keto Pulled Chicken

Delicious Keto Pulled Chicken, a quick, flavorful low-carb meal with tender chicken, and Cajun spices.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cajun, Shredded chicken
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Resting Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Servings: 3
Calories: 356kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small red onion peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 small tomato thinly sliced
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves chopped
  • Juice from ½ lemon
  • 3 fresh lettuce leaves for serving
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet and add onions to it.
  • Cook the onions on low to medium heat for 5 minutes or until evenly brown.
  • Add tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, and sea salt, and give it a good stir.
  • Then, add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook slightly on both sides until lightly charred.
  • Pour water, cover, and cook everything for 15 minutes on medium heat.
  • Add a little more water halfway if required. Flip the filets, cover them, and cook the chicken until the water evaporates.
  • Turn off the heat and transfer the chicken breasts to a bowl.
  • Let them rest for about 2 minutes, and shred with forks.
  • Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shredded chicken and return it to the skillet, mixing well with the remaining gravy.
  • Serve the chicken shreds over crisp lettuce and garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Video

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Keto Pulled Chicken
Amount Per Serving
Calories 356 Calories from Fat 126
% Daily Value*
Fat 14g22%
Saturated Fat 2g13%
Trans Fat 0.02g
Polyunsaturated Fat 2g
Monounsaturated Fat 8g
Cholesterol 97mg32%
Sodium 430mg19%
Potassium 1503mg43%
Carbohydrates 22g7%
Fiber 8g33%
Sugar 13g14%
Protein 38g76%
Vitamin A 3785IU76%
Vitamin C 25mg30%
Calcium 123mg12%
Iron 3mg17%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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