Can I eat pesto on a keto diet?

Yes — pesto is a keto-friendly sauce , especially when it’s made with olive oil, basil, garlic, and nuts. Just watch the label if it’s store-bought: some brands sneak in sugars or starches. The great thing about keto chicken broccoli pesto is that it leans into healthy fats without spiking your carbs.

Can you eat chicken and broccoli on keto?

Absolutely. Chicken is lean, high in protein, and contains zero carbs. Broccoli is a low-carb, high-fiber veggie that’s perfect for keto. That’s why they’re the star duo in this keto chicken broccoli pesto recipe — simple, clean, and full of nutrients.

Can you eat unlimited broccoli on keto?

Not quite. Broccoli is keto-approved, but it still contains a few net carbs per serving. You won’t blow your macros with a cup or two, but “unlimited” might push you over. The beauty of this one-pan dish is that it gives you just the right portion for one.

Is pesto sauce high in carbs?

Not typically. Most classic pesto sauces have around 1–2 grams of carbs per tablespoon — very keto-friendly. Just check the ingredient list for sneaky additives. In this keto chicken broccoli pesto , two tablespoons of pesto add flavor without wrecking your carb count.

Keto Chicken Broccoli Pesto – 1-Pan Wonder with Big Flavor

Description

A quick one-pan keto dinner made with chicken, broccoli, and basil pesto — perfect for one person, zero leftovers.

Ingredients

1 small boneless skinless chicken breast (cubed)

1 cup broccoli florets

1 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp basil pesto

1 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbsp water or broth

Optional: lemon zest or red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.

2. Add broccoli and 2 tbsp water or broth. Cover and steam for 2–3 minutes until tender.

3. Stir in pesto and toss everything until evenly coated. Lower heat.

4. Top with grated Parmesan and optional lemon zest or chili flakes. Serve hot.

Notes

Double the recipe if you want leftovers — stores well for 2–3 days.
Use shrimp instead of chicken for a quick seafood twist.
Don’t skip the squeeze of lemon — it brightens everything.

Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Low Carb

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 390
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: keto chicken broccoli pesto, one pot keto dinner