Craving the comforting taste of Chicken Parmesan without all the carbs? This Keto Chicken Parmesan is the perfect solution! By using almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs, this recipe delivers all the flavor of the classic dish without breaking your keto diet. Topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, this meal will become one of your go-to keto dinner recipes.
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Why Keto Chicken Parmesan is a Great Choice
Chicken Parmesan is a beloved dish known for its crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara, and gooey cheese topping. However, traditional breading is high in carbs, making it off-limits for keto followers. With a few simple ingredient swaps, you can still enjoy this Italian favorite while staying within your carb limits. Almond flour provides the perfect low-carb breading, and the chicken remains tender and juicy under the layers of marinara and cheese.
Ingredients for Keto Chicken Parmesan:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup almond flour
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ½ cup marinara sauce (sugar-free)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- Fresh basil (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the chicken: If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Bread the chicken: In a shallow bowl, combine almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. In a separate bowl, beat the egg. Dip each chicken cutlet into the beaten egg, then coat it in the almond flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-covered on both sides.
- Fry the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken cutlets for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Top with marinara and cheese: Spoon sugar-free marinara sauce over each chicken cutlet and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve your delicious Keto Chicken Parmesan with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Why Keto Chicken Parmesan Makes a Perfect Dinner
This dish is perfect for a keto dinner recipe because it’s rich in protein and healthy fats, helping you stay in ketosis while satisfying your cravings for comfort food. The almond flour provides a crispy, flavorful coating without the high-carb content of regular breading, and the marinara and mozzarella add a burst of flavor that will leave you feeling satisfied and full.
Tips for the Perfect Keto Chicken Parmesan:
- Choose sugar-free marinara: Many store-bought marinara sauces contain added sugar, which can quickly add carbs. Look for a sugar-free option or make your own at home to keep it keto-friendly.
- Pound the chicken thin: Thinner chicken cutlets cook faster and more evenly, ensuring that your meal comes out perfect every time.
- Use a cast-iron skillet: A cast-iron skillet retains heat well and helps achieve that perfect crispy crust on your chicken.
Serving Suggestions:
- Zucchini noodles: Serve your Keto Chicken Parmesan over a bed of zucchini noodles for a low-carb, pasta-like experience.
- Cauliflower rice: This makes a great side dish that soaks up the extra marinara and cheese.
- Salad: A fresh Caesar or mixed greens salad pairs beautifully with this rich and cheesy dish.
Customizing Your Keto Chicken Parmesan:
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara for a spicy kick.
- Swap the cheese: Try using provolone or gouda instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Make it dairy-free: Substitute the cheese with a dairy-free alternative like almond cheese or nutritional yeast if you’re avoiding dairy.
Health Benefits of Keto Chicken Parmesan:
- Low-carb and high-protein: By using almond flour, this recipe is low in carbs but still high in protein, making it ideal for muscle maintenance while on the ketogenic diet.
- Healthy fats: The olive oil, almond flour, and cheese contribute healthy fats, which help you stay full longer and support your energy needs in ketosis.
- Nutrient-packed: Chicken provides essential vitamins and minerals like B6 and B12, and the fresh basil garnish adds a burst of antioxidants.
Final Thoughts:
This Keto Chicken Parmesan recipe delivers all the flavor of the classic dish while keeping it low-carb and keto-friendly. With crispy almond flour breading, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, this meal is a perfect addition to your weekly keto dinner recipes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or the whole family, this delicious and satisfying dish is sure to be a hit!