One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet

One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet is a bold, cheesy, flavor-packed dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes. Tender cooked chicken is coated in a creamy, zesty enchilada-style sauce made with spices, tomato paste, and sour cream, then topped with melted cheese for the ultimate skillet meal. Low in carbs but big on flavor, this easy one-pan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Convenience – Everything cooks in a single skillet.
Low Carb & Keto-Friendly – Big flavor without the tortillas.
Ready in 30 Minutes – Perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Creamy & Cheesy – Rich enchilada-inspired sauce.
Family Approved – Mild heat with customizable spice level.
Great for Meal Prep – Reheats beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tbsp butter – Adds richness and forms the base.
1/2 cup chicken broth – Creates a flavorful sauce foundation.
2 tbsp tomato paste – Provides concentrated tomato flavor.
1 tbsp chili powder – Classic enchilada spice.
1/2 tsp garlic powder – Enhances savory depth.
1/2 tsp ground cumin – Adds warm, earthy notes.
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper – Brings gentle heat (adjust to taste).
2 tbsp sweet paprika – Adds mild sweetness and color.
3/4 cup sour cream – Creates creamy, tangy texture.
1 1/2 lb cooked chicken (cubed or shredded) – Lean protein base.
1–1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) – Melty topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Melt the Butter
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly.

Build the Sauce Base
Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in tomato paste, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, sweet paprika, and cayenne until smooth and well combined.

Make It Creamy
Reduce heat to low and whisk in sour cream until fully incorporated and smooth.

Add the Chicken
Stir in cooked chicken, coating thoroughly in the creamy enchilada sauce. Let simmer for a few minutes until heated through.

Add the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for about 4 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve Hot
Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Use Rotisserie Chicken – Saves time and adds flavor.
Control the Heat – Adjust cayenne for mild or spicy.
Don’t Boil After Adding Sour Cream – Prevents curdling.
Add Veggies – Stir in bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.
Top It Off – Garnish with cilantro, avocado, or green onions.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 320 calories per serving

Additional Nutrition (per serving):
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Sodium: 650mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Perfect Pairings

Cauliflower rice
Side salad with lime vinaigrette
Sautéed zucchini
Low-carb tortillas

Ideal Occasions

Busy weeknight dinners
Low-carb meal plans
Keto-friendly gatherings
Quick comfort food cravings

Storage & Serving Tips

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Not ideal for freezing due to sour cream base.
Stir before reheating to maintain creamy texture.

Creative Variations to Try

Extra Cheesy Version – Add more cheese on top.
Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños.
Creamier Option – Mix in a little cream cheese.
Tex-Mex Twist – Top with crushed pork rinds for crunch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sauce too thick – Add a splash of broth.
Sauce too thin – Simmer uncovered briefly.
Sour cream separating – Keep heat low after adding.
Too spicy – Add extra sour cream to balance.

Why This Recipe Works

The butter and spices create a flavorful base that mimics traditional enchilada sauce without added carbs. Tomato paste delivers concentrated flavor while sour cream provides creaminess and balances heat. Using pre-cooked chicken keeps the recipe fast and efficient, while melting cheese on top adds a rich, comforting finish.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Low Carb Chicken Enchilada Skillet is the perfect combination of convenience, comfort, and bold flavor. With minimal prep and maximum satisfaction, it’s a weeknight winner that proves low-carb meals can still be hearty and delicious.