Can I eat pesto on a keto diet?

Yes, you can eat pesto on a keto diet—as long as it’s made with clean ingredients. Traditional pesto uses basil, olive oil, Parmesan, garlic, and pine nuts—all keto-friendly. Just avoid versions with added sugars or cheap oils. Most jarred pesto is fine, but check the label. If you’re using pesto in this Instant Pot keto chicken pesto recipe, pick one with no hidden carbs. Or make your own in 5 minutes.

Why does my Instant Pot chicken taste rubbery?

Rubbery chicken is usually undercooked or pressure-released too fast. In this recipe, we use natural pressure release to let the steam settle gently—giving you tender, juicy chicken every time. Don’t skip that step. When making Instant Pot keto chicken pesto , let the pot sit for 5–7 minutes before flipping the valve. That’s the key.

Why is my Instant Pot chicken so tough?

Tough chicken happens when there’s not enough liquid, or the pressure cooks too long. For a solo portion like this Instant Pot keto chicken pesto , you only need ¼ cup of broth and 8 minutes on high pressure. The natural release helps the fibers relax so the meat stays soft.

Is chicken pesto keto?

Yes— chicken pesto is keto if the pesto is clean and the dish skips the carbs. In this recipe, you’re getting high-protein, high-fat flavor without pasta, rice, or starchy sides. This makes Instant Pot keto chicken pesto a perfect one-bowl keto dinner for one.

Instant Pot Keto Chicken Pesto – Fast Solo Dinner

Name: Instant Pot Keto Chicken Pesto Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Low Carb

Description

A fast and flavorful one-pot keto dinner made just for one—tender chicken, rich pesto, and zero leftovers.

Ingredients

1 boneless skinless chicken breast (4–6 oz)

2 tablespoons keto-friendly pesto

1/4 cup chicken broth

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash for serving

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Pour chicken broth into the Instant Pot insert.

2. Place chicken breast inside; season with salt and pepper.

3. Spoon pesto over the top of the chicken.

4. Seal the Instant Pot and set to High Pressure for 8 minutes.

5. Allow 5–7 minutes of natural pressure release, then quick release.

6. Check for doneness; shred or slice, then serve with your choice of keto-friendly sides.

Notes

Use thighs for juicier results if preferred.
Add a handful of zucchini noodles before sealing to cook all-in-one.
Avoid quick-releasing too soon—natural release keeps chicken tender.