Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
The ketogenic diet is all about fueling your body with healthy fats while keeping carbs to a minimum. One of the best ways to stick to keto without getting bored is to explore international cuisines that naturally lend themselves to this eating style. That’s exactly what makes this Persian Keto Chicken Thighs recipe so perfect.
Inspired by the rich and aromatic flavors of Middle Eastern cooking, this recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in lemon, olive oil, and warming spices. Not only does it satisfy your taste buds, but it also aligns perfectly with keto macronutrient goals.
Ingredients
- 1⁄2 small sweet onion
- 1⁄4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1/2 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1⁄2 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1⁄2 cup olive oil
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Instructions
- Place the sweet onion, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, and cumin in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
- With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to emulsify the marinade.
- Place chicken thighs in a sealable plastic bag or container. Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal tightly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, turning occasionally to ensure even marination.
- Preheat grill to medium heat.
- Remove chicken from the marinade and discard excess marinade.
- Grill the chicken for about 10 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 237
- Fats: 21 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Proteins: 22 g
- Potassium: 220 mg
- Sodium: 86 mg
Why This Persian Chicken Recipe Is Perfect for Keto
Chicken thighs are an excellent protein choice for keto due to their higher fat content compared to chicken breasts. This recipe contains 21 grams of healthy fats and 22 grams of protein per serving, keeping you full and energized without spiking your insulin levels.
According to a 2017 study published in the National Library of Medicine, diets high in monounsaturated fats like those found in olive oil help improve cholesterol levels and may reduce inflammation — a key benefit for long-term keto health.
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Tips for Grilling the Perfect Chicken Thigh
- Let chicken come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Chicken thighs are safe at 165°F (74°C), but many chefs recommend 170-175°F for juicier texture.
- For added depth, sprinkle a pinch of sumac or fresh parsley before serving.
Conclusion
This Persian Keto Chicken recipe isn’t just delicious — it’s smart, satisfying, and perfectly keto. Whether you’re grilling it outdoors or searing it indoors on a stovetop grill pan, you’ll love the simplicity and flavor of this marinated chicken.
Try pairing it with keto-friendly cauliflower rice or a cucumber yogurt salad for a complete low-carb Persian meal.