Quick Keto Meals On The Go

Whether you’re a keto newbie or a seasoned fat-burning machine, we all know that life can get hectic, and sometimes the thought of prepping and cooking a keto-friendly meal can be a frustrating chore. 

Well, we’ve got easy keto recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds, without taking too much of your time. Say goodbye to the temptation of carb-laden fast food, and hello to five quick and scrumptious keto meals that are perfect for when you’re on the go.

So, grab your apron, dust off your trusty skillet, and get ready to whip up a storm of gastronomical genius. We’re here to prove that low-carb, high-flavor meals are not only possible but also incredibly satisfying and delightfully easy to prepare.

Quick and Easy Keto Meal Recipes

1. Cashew Chicken

Prep Time: 15 Minutes

Cook Time: 10 Minutes

This Asian-inspired dish is not only keto-friendly but also incredibly easy to make. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and flavorful sauce will leave your taste buds craving more.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup cashews
• 1/4 cup soy sauce or coconut aminos
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce or coconut aminos, sesame oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
3. Add the cashews and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cashews are slightly toasted.
4. Stir in the green onions and cook for an additional minute.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired. Enjoy your quick and delicious cashew chicken!

2. Chicken Philly Cheesesteak

Prep Time: 10 Minutes

Cook Time: 15 Minutes

This keto-friendly twist on a classic Philly cheesesteak swaps out the bread for a delicious and satisfying low-carb option. With tender chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and gooey cheese, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices provolone cheese

Instructions:

1. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until cooked through. Season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil and add the bell pepper and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Return the chicken to the skillet and mix with the cooked vegetables.
4. Place the provolone cheese slices on top of the chicken and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
5. Serve your chicken Philly cheesesteak with a fork and knife, or wrap it in a large lettuce leaf for a handheld option.

3. Portobello Pizza

Prep Time: 20 Minutes

Cook Time: 10 Minutes

Portobello mushrooms are an excellent low-carb alternative to traditional pizza crusts made from refined grains. They have a rich, earthy flavor and a hearty texture that pairs perfectly with classic pizza toppings. The mushrooms themselves are low in calories, carbohydrates, and fat, yet high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This makes them an ideal base for keto-friendly pizza creations.

Ingredients:

For the portobello pizzas, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 large portobello mushroom caps, cleaned and stems removed
• 1 cup marinara sauce (choose a low-carb, sugar-free version)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni, salami, or other keto-friendly meat
• 1/3 cup diced bell pepper
• 1/3 cup diced onion
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Brush the outside of the portobello mushroom caps with olive oil and place them gill-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Season the inside of the mushrooms with salt and pepper, according to your taste preferences.
3. Spoon approximately 1/4 cup of marinara sauce into each mushroom cap, spreading it evenly over the gill side.
4. Combine the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses in a small bowl. Sprinkle a generous layer of the cheese mixture over the sauce in each mushroom cap.
5. Arrange your chosen keto-friendly meat (such as pepperoni or salami) over the cheese layer, followed by the diced bell pepper and onion.
6. Bake the portobello pizzas in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the mushrooms are tender.
7. Remove the pizzas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the top of each pizza just before serving.
8. To make your portobello pizzas portable, simply wrap each one individually in aluminum foil or parchment paper. They can be enjoyed hot or cold and make for a delicious and satisfying keto meal on the go.

4. One-Pan Pesto Chicken and Veggies

Prep Time: 20 Minutes

Cook Time: 10 Minutes

This one-pan meal is not only a time-saver but also a great way to incorporate healthy proteins and vegetables into your keto diet. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish is perfect for those who need a quick and easy keto meal on the go.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
• ½ cup store-bought or homemade pesto
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes and bell peppers. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the spinach or kale to the skillet with the vegetables and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the greens have wilted.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, and spoon the pesto over the chicken and vegetables. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

Prep Time: 5 Minutes

Cook Time: 15 Minutes

This creamy and satisfying casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for those following a keto diet. With minimal prep time and quick cooking, this meal is ideal for those busy days when you need a delicious and hearty meal in a hurry.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup chopped green onions
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

FAQs About the Keto Diet and Recipes 

What exactly is the keto diet, and how does it work?

The ketogenic diet is a low-carb, moderate-protein, high-fat eating plan designed to put your body into a metabolic state called ketosis. In ketosis, your body primarily burns fat for fuel instead of carbohydrates. This is achieved by drastically reducing your intake of carbohydrates and increasing your consumption of healthy fats and moderate amounts of protein.

When you consume fewer carbs, your body is forced to look for alternative sources of energy, thus breaking down stored fat into molecules called ketones. These ketones are then used as a primary source of energy for your body and brain.

What foods can I eat on the keto diet?

The keto diet is focused on consuming whole, nutrient-dense foods that are low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats. Here are some staple foods to include in your keto meal plan:

• Healthy fats: Avocado, coconut oil, olive oil, grass-fed butter, and ghee
• Protein: Fatty cuts of meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and full-fat dairy products
• Low-carb vegetables: Leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, and bell peppers
• Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and pumpkin seeds
• Dairy: Full-fat cheese, yogurt, and heavy cream
• Beverages: Water, black coffee, and unsweetened tea

It’s essential to avoid high-carb foods such as grains, legumes, sugar, and most fruits (except for small amounts of berries).

How long does it take to see results on the keto diet?

The time it takes to see results on the keto diet can vary depending on various factors, such as your starting weight, activity level, and how strictly you adhere to the diet. Most people begin to see weight loss results within the first few weeks of starting the keto diet. 

However, it’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is different, and weight loss should not be the sole focus of following the keto diet. Many people also experience improved mental clarity, increased energy levels, and better overall health.

The Bottom Line

With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, these dishes are sure to become staples in your keto meal plan. So go ahead, give them a try, and enjoy the satisfaction and energy that comes with a well-balanced keto meal!

At Mama Bear’s Cookbook, we believe that living a keto lifestyle should be both healthy and delicious. Our collection of keto recipes aims to prove that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor to stay on track with your low-carb goals. 

So whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even dessert ideas, Mama Bear’s Cookbook is here to help you discover a world of scrumptious keto creations that’ll keep you coming back for more.