Looking for a quick and delicious low-carb dinner? These BBQ chicken thighs are packed with smoky flavor and come together in just 30 minutes! Serve them over sautéed peppers and onions for a satisfying, diabetes-friendly meal that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes.
- Diabetes-Friendly: Uses low-carb BBQ sauce.
- Versatile: Serve over sautéed veggies or as a sandwich for those wanting extra carbs.
- Rich in Flavor: Caramelized onions and browned chicken make every bite irresistible!
Key Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, perfect for shredding.
- Onion: Enhances the dish with natural sweetness.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing.
- Low-Carb BBQ Sauce: Choose a store-bought option or make your own.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, or Colby Jack work great.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a medium skillet. Add 1 thinly sliced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and lightly caramelized.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Season 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet with the onions, cover, and cook on medium-low for 2-3 minutes. Uncover and continue cooking for about 10 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 3: Shred & Sauce
Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir in ⅓ cup of low-carb BBQ sauce, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
Step 4: Add Cheese & Melt
Sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheese over the chicken mixture. Cover and cook for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey.
Serving Suggestions
- Low-Carb: Serve over sautéed peppers and onions.
- Higher-Carb Option: Use as a BBQ chicken sandwich with a toasted bun.
- Extra Toppings: Garnish with fresh parsley or sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick!
Pro Tips for the Best Flavor
✔ Slice onions thinly and cook until golden brown for extra sweetness.
✔ Let the chicken brown slightly before shredding—it deepens the flavor.
✔ Choose a low-carb BBQ sauce or make your own to control sugar content.
✔ Add mushrooms for an extra savory touch.
✔ Use an iron skillet for better browning and caramelization.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 247 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: Varies by BBQ sauce choice
Try These Other Low-Carb Favorites!
- Low-Carb Oven BBQ Chicken
- BBQ Chicken Salad
- Low-Carb Italian Beef & Cheese Bowl
- Low-Carb Philly Cheesesteak Bowl
Did You Try This Recipe?
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Low Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs
A quick and flavorful low-carb BBQ chicken dish ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for a satisfying, diabetes-friendly meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 5 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ⅓ cup low-carb BBQ sauce
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Colby Jack)
Instructions:
- Sauté the onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.
- Cook the chicken: Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet with the onions, cover, and cook for 2-3 minutes. Uncover and cook for about 10 more minutes, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Shred and mix: Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken directly in the skillet. Stir in the BBQ sauce until well combined.
- Melt the cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken mixture. Cover the skillet for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve over sautéed peppers and onions for a low-carb option or on a bun for a classic BBQ sandwich.
Pro Tips:
- Slice onions thinly and cook longer for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
- Add mushrooms for extra texture and taste.
- Use an iron skillet for better browning and flavor.
- Choose a low-sugar BBQ sauce to keep carbs in check.
Would you like any modifications? 😊🔥