Keto Chicken Parmesan

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re craving a classic Italian dish but need to stick to a keto-friendly diet, this Keto Chicken Parmesan is the perfect solution. It’s packed with flavors of crispy chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese, without the carbs. The almond flour coating ensures a crunchy exterior, while keeping it low in carbs. Whether you’re following the keto diet or just looking for a healthier version of a favorite dish, this recipe will satisfy your cravings for comfort food, with none of the guilt!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup almond flour

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 cup sugar-free marinara sauce

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• Olive oil for frying

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and basil.

3. In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs. In another shallow bowl, mix the almond flour and Parmesan cheese.

4. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat it with the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.

5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.

6. Transfer the fried chicken breasts to the prepared baking sheet. Spoon a few tablespoons of marinara sauce over each breast and top with mozzarella cheese.

7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

8. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Zucchini noodles: Serve the chicken parmesan over zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative to pasta.

• Dairy-free version: Use dairy-free cheese and skip the Parmesan in the coating for a dairy-free version.

• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle some over the chicken for a spicy kick.

• Air fryer: If you want to skip the frying step, cook the breaded chicken breasts in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken parmesan in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of almond flour?

Regular breadcrumbs are not keto-friendly, but almond flour makes a perfect low-carb alternative to keep the dish within keto guidelines.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked properly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying and baking.

Is the marinara sauce keto-friendly?

Make sure you use a sugar-free marinara sauce to keep it keto-friendly. Many store-bought sauces contain added sugars, so always check the label.

Can I freeze Keto Chicken Parmesan?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken breasts (without the sauce and cheese). Store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat before adding sauce and cheese.

Can I make the chicken crispy without frying?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes to get a crispy texture without frying it in oil.

What should I serve with Keto Chicken Parmesan?

Serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a fresh salad for a complete low-carb meal.

Can I substitute the chicken breasts with chicken thighs?

Yes, chicken thighs will work as a substitute. They might take a little longer to cook depending on their size, so be sure to check the internal temperature.

How do I keep the coating from falling off the chicken?

Make sure the chicken is fully coated with the egg mixture and the almond flour mixture, and be gentle when flipping the chicken during frying to avoid disturbing the coating.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, the recipe is not spicy unless you add red pepper flakes or other spicy ingredients.

Conclusion

Keto Chicken Parmesan is a delicious, low-carb twist on a beloved Italian classic. With a crispy almond flour coating, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese, it delivers all the flavors you love without the carbs. Whether you’re on a keto diet or simply looking for a healthier option, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this easy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!