Name: Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: For Chicken:; 1 lb chicken breasts; 1 tsp Italian Seasoning; ½ tsp onion powder; salt and pepper; For Egg Wash:; 2 eggs; 1 garlic clove; ½ tsp Italian Seasoning; salt and pepper; For Coating:; 1 cup parmesan cheese; ½ cup Almond Flour; For Olive Oil:; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp butter; For Marinara Sauce:; 26 oz marinara sauce; 8 oz mozarella cheese; pinch red pepper flakes; 2 tbsp basil

Craving a classic Italian dish without the carbs? This low-carb chicken parmesan recipe has all the rich flavors of traditional chicken parmesan but uses almond flour and parmesan cheese for a deliciously crispy coating.

Photos of Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Recipe

While most of the ingredients are commonly found in your pantry, you might need to grab almond flour and a good quality marinara sauce from the supermarket. These items ensure the recipe stays low-carb while delivering maximum flavor.

Ingredients For Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Chicken breasts: Serve as the protein base of the dish.

Italian seasoning: Adds an aromatic blend of herbs to the chicken.

Onion powder: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.

Pepper: Adds a hint of spice and balances the flavors.

Eggs: Used in the egg wash to help the coating stick.

Garlic clove: Adds a robust, savory flavor.

Parmesan cheese: Creates a crispy, flavorful coating for the chicken.

Almond flour: A low-carb alternative to traditional flour.

Olive oil: Used for frying the chicken to golden perfection.

Butter: Adds richness and a golden hue to the chicken.

Marinara sauce: Provides a flavorful tomato base for the dish.

Mozzarella cheese: Melts to create a gooey, cheesy topping.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat to the sauce.

Basil: Freshens up the dish with a herbal note.

One reader, Blanch Clayton says:

This low carb chicken parmesan recipe is a game-changer! The almond flour and parmesan coating is perfectly crispy, and the marinara sauce adds a rich flavor. Easy to make and absolutely delicious. Highly recommend!

Blanch Clayton

Techniques Required for Making Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

How to slice chicken breasts: Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thinner fillets. How to make egg wash: Whisk together eggs, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl. How to dredge chicken: Coat the chicken in the egg wash, then press it into a mixture of parmesan cheese and almond flour. How to fry chicken: Heat oil and butter in a skillet, fry the chicken until golden and crispy on both sides. How to broil chicken: Preheat the oven broiler to 400 degrees F, arrange chicken in a baking dish with marinara sauce and cheese, then broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

How To Make Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

You can never go wrong with this delicious low-carb chicken parmesan with a crispy coating, and topped with homemade tomato sauce and melted mozzarella!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Chicken:

1lbchicken breasts
1tspItalian seasoning
½tsponion powder
salt and pepper,to season

For Egg Wash:

2eggs
1garlic clove,minced
½tspItalian seasoning
salt and pepper,to taste

For Coating:

1cupParmesan cheese,fresh, grated
½cupalmond flour,not almond meal

For Olive Oil:

2tbspolive oil
1tbspbutter

For Marinara Sauce:

26ozmarinara sauce,750g
8ozmozarella cheese,250g, fresh, shredded
pinchred pepper flakes,crushed, optional
2tbspbasil,or parsley, freshly chopped

Instructions

Chicken:

Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to make 4 fillets. Generously season with Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Egg Wash:

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Place chicken in the egg wash and set aside to let marinate.*

Coating:

Combine the parmesan cheese and almond flour in a separate shallow bowl.
Using a fork or tongs, pick up one of the chicken breast pieces and allow excess egg wash to drip off.
Dredge in the parmesan mixture, pressing chicken lightly into the coating with the back of the fork, then turn and repeat. Shake off excess coating and repeat with remaining chicken pieces.
Heat the oil and butter in a large non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
Fry 2 chicken pieces at the same time untouched for about 4 minutes. Do not move the chicken around as the coating may peel off of the surface of the chicken before it gets a chance to stick.
Once the coating is crispy, golden and set, flip and continue frying the other side until golden and cooked through.
Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.
Arrange the oven rack to the middle of the oven. Preheat oven broiler or grill to 400 degrees F. Lightly grease a baking dish with a non-stick cooking oil spray.
Spread half of the marinara over the base of a lightly greased baking dish. Sprinkle with red chili flakes, and arrange chicken over the sauce in a single layer. Spread remaining sauce over each chicken breast.
Top with the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Broil or grill for 5 to 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbling and melted and the chicken is completely cooked through.
Sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley to serve.

Recipe Notes

If time allows, marinate the chicken overnight in the egg wash for a deeper flavor. Cover with wrap and refrigerate, then take it out at least 15 minutes before cooking to help get the chill out.

Nutrition

Calories: 869.19kcal
Fat: 60.79g
Saturated Fat: 24.37g
Trans Fat: 0.92g
Monounsaturated Fat: 19.08g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.45g
Carbohydrates: 21.10g
Fiber: 5.66g
Sugar: 11.21g
Protein: 59.45g
Cholesterol: 246.99mg
Sodium: 1752.67mg
Calcium: 931.52mg
Potassium: 1095.16mg
Iron: 4.02mg
Vitamin A: 377.70µg
Vitamin C: 4.42mg

Technique Tips for Perfecting Your Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

To ensure your chicken stays crispy and the coating adheres well, make sure not to overcrowd the pan when frying. Frying in batches allows the chicken to cook evenly and prevents the coating from becoming soggy. Additionally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after frying before adding it to the marinara sauce; this helps the coating set and stay crisp during the final broiling step.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and mix the parmesan cheese and almond flour coating in advance. Season the chicken breasts and prepare the egg wash the night before.

Use pre-made marinara: Opt for a high-quality, store-bought marinara sauce to save time on making it from scratch.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven while you fry the chicken to ensure it's ready when you need it.

Batch cooking: Fry multiple pieces of chicken at once if your pan is large enough to cut down on cooking time.

Substitute Ingredients For Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts are a lean protein similar to chicken and will provide a similar texture and flavor.
Italian seasoning - Substitute with herbes de Provence: Herbes de Provence offers a similar blend of herbs that can provide a comparable flavor profile.
Onion powder - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can add a similar depth of flavor, though it will be slightly different in taste.
Salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and will provide the same level of seasoning.
Pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used to provide a similar heat and flavor without changing the appearance of the dish.
Eggs - Substitute with egg whites: Egg whites can be used to reduce cholesterol and still provide the necessary binding for the coating.
Garlic clove - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic for convenience and a similar flavor.
Parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano is a hard cheese with a similar texture and a slightly stronger flavor.
Almond flour - Substitute with coconut flour: Coconut flour is low in carbs and can provide a similar texture for the coating.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good substitute for olive oil.
Butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee is clarified butter that can be used to add a rich flavor and is suitable for high-heat cooking.
Marinara sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can be seasoned to taste and used as a lower-carb alternative to marinara sauce.
Mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese melts well and has a similar mild flavor to mozzarella.
Red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can provide a similar heat level and can be adjusted to taste.
Basil - Substitute with oregano: Oregano offers a similar herbaceous flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

Presenting Your Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Dish

Use a pristine white plate: Choose a large, round white plate to make the colors of the chicken parmesan pop. This will provide a clean canvas for your dish.
Create a sauce base: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a circular motion on the center of the plate. This will act as a flavorful base for the chicken.
Position the chicken: Place one piece of the crispy chicken breast slightly off-center on the sauce. Angle it slightly to give it a dynamic look.
Add a cheese layer: Gently lay a slice of melted mozzarella cheese over the chicken, allowing it to drape naturally.
Drizzle with extra sauce: Spoon a small amount of marinara sauce over the mozzarella, letting it cascade down the sides of the chicken.
Garnish with basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Place a small basil leaf on top for an elegant touch.
Add a touch of red pepper flakes: Lightly sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes around the edge of the plate for a subtle hint of heat and visual appeal.
Finish with a drizzle of olive oil: Drizzle a few drops of high-quality olive oil around the plate to add a glossy finish and enhance the flavors.
Serve with a side salad: Place a small portion of mixed greens lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon juice on the side of the plate to add freshness and balance.
Use microgreens for finesse: Add a small cluster of microgreens on top of the chicken for an extra layer of sophistication and texture.
Ensure perfect temperature: Serve the dish immediately to ensure the cheese is perfectly melted and the chicken remains crispy.

Essential Tools for Making Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

Knife: To slice each chicken breast in half horizontally.
Cutting board: A surface to safely slice the chicken breasts.
Measuring spoons: To measure out the Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Shallow bowl: To whisk together the eggs, garlic, and Italian seasoning for the egg wash.
Whisk: To mix the egg wash ingredients together.
Fork or tongs: To pick up the chicken pieces and dredge them in the coating mixture.
Shallow bowl: To combine the parmesan cheese and almond flour for the coating.
Non-stick skillet or frying pan: To fry the coated chicken pieces.
Spatula: To flip the chicken pieces while frying.
Oven: To broil or grill the chicken at 400 degrees F.
Baking dish: To arrange the chicken and marinara sauce for broiling.
Non-stick cooking oil spray: To lightly grease the baking dish.
Measuring cup: To measure out the marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Grater: To grate the parmesan cheese if not pre-grated.
Spatula: To spread the marinara sauce over the chicken.
Oven mitts: To safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Storing and Freezing Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

To store leftover chicken parmesan, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, place the chicken parmesan in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the coating and melt the cheese.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken parmesan. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen chicken parmesan, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen chicken pieces in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp up the coating and melt the cheese.
Alternatively, you can thaw the frozen chicken parmesan in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven as described above for refrigerated leftovers.

How To Reheat Leftover Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken parmesan in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevents it from drying out.
If you prefer a crispier texture, you can also reheat the chicken parmesan in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is heated through and the coating is crispy.
For a quick and easy option, you can reheat the chicken parmesan in the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become tough and rubbery in the microwave.
If you have leftover marinara sauce, you can also reheat the chicken parmesan in a skillet on the stovetop. Place the chicken in the skillet and pour the marinara sauce over top. Cover the skillet and cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is hot and bubbly.
Regardless of which method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure that it has reached a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Interesting Facts About Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

A unique aspect of this low carb chicken parmesan recipe is the use of almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs. This substitution not only keeps the dish low in carbohydrates but also adds a subtle nutty flavor, making it a healthier and more flavorful alternative.

Is Making Low Carb Chicken Parmesan at Home Cost-Effective?

This low carb chicken parmesan recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of chicken breasts, parmesan cheese, and almond flour provides a nutritious, low-carb meal without breaking the bank. The ingredients are relatively affordable and accessible. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD, depending on local prices and brand choices. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Healthy or Unhealthy?

The low carb chicken parmesan recipe is a healthier twist on the classic Italian dish. By using almond flour instead of breadcrumbs and reducing the amount of cheese, the recipe significantly cuts down on carbs and fat. The inclusion of lean chicken breast provides a good source of protein, while the marinara sauce adds some vegetables to the dish. Overall, this recipe can be considered a healthier option compared to traditional chicken parmesan.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be further improved:

Use a low-sugar or sugar-free marinara sauce to reduce the carb content even more
Opt for a reduced-fat mozzarella cheese to cut down on saturated fat
Include a side of non-starchy vegetables, such as roasted broccoli or a salad, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the meal
Consider using a heart-healthy oil, like avocado oil, instead of butter for frying the chicken

To make this recipe even healthier, you could try the following suggestions:

Replace the almond flour with crushed pork rinds for a lower carb and higher protein coating
Use a combination of part-skim mozzarella and parmesan cheese to reduce the overall fat content while still maintaining a cheesy flavor
Experiment with using a small amount of unflavored whey protein powder in the coating mixture to boost the protein content of the dish
Serve the chicken parmesan over a bed of spiralized zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb, veggie-packed alternative to pasta

Editor's Thoughts on This Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Recipe

This low carb chicken parmesan recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The use of almond flour and parmesan for the coating provides a satisfying crunch while keeping it keto-friendly. The egg wash, infused with garlic and Italian seasoning, adds depth of flavor. Frying the chicken before baking ensures a crispy exterior, while the marinara and melted mozzarella create a comforting, gooey finish. The final touch of fresh basil or parsley brightens the dish. Overall, it's a well-balanced, flavorful recipe that doesn't compromise on taste despite being low in carbs.

Enhance Your Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Butter Asparagus: Imagine the delightful crunch of asparagus spears, kissed by the golden touch of garlic butter. This side dish adds a fresh, vibrant contrast to the rich and cheesy chicken parmesan, making every bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

Cauliflower Mash: Transform the humble cauliflower into a creamy, velvety mash that rivals traditional mashed potatoes. Infused with a hint of garlic and parmesan, this low-carb delight complements the savory notes of the chicken parmesan perfectly.

Zucchini Noodles: Swap out traditional pasta for spiralized zucchini noodles, lightly sautéed with a touch of olive oil and garlic. These 'zoodles' provide a light and refreshing base that pairs beautifully with the rich marinara and melted mozzarella of the chicken parmesan.

Caprese Salad: A vibrant caprese salad featuring juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, drizzled with a balsamic reduction. This classic Italian salad offers a refreshing and tangy counterpoint to the hearty chicken parmesan.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these roasted brussels sprouts are tossed with olive oil and a sprinkle of parmesan. Their nutty flavor and satisfying crunch make them an ideal companion to the cheesy, savory chicken parmesan.

Alternative Low Carb Recipes Similar to Chicken Parmesan

Keto Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy, low-carb delight with this Keto Chicken Alfredo. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich alfredo sauce made from heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a comforting dinner without the carbs.

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Grilled Chicken: Swap out traditional pasta for zucchini noodles in this fresh and vibrant dish. Grilled chicken pairs beautifully with a homemade basil pesto, creating a light yet satisfying meal that's bursting with flavor.

Cauliflower Crust Pizza: Craving pizza but want to keep it low-carb? This Cauliflower Crust Pizza is the answer. The cauliflower crust is crispy and delicious, topped with your favorite pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a variety of toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, and bell peppers.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey: These Stuffed Bell Peppers are a hearty and healthy option. Filled with ground turkey, cauliflower rice, and a blend of spices, they make for a delicious and satisfying meal that's both nutritious and flavorful.

Eggplant Lasagna: Enjoy the classic flavors of lasagna without the carbs with this Eggplant Lasagna. Layers of eggplant slices replace the pasta, combined with a rich meat sauce and creamy ricotta cheese. It's a comforting dish that's perfect for any night of the week.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Meal

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. The earthy mushroom caps are filled with a delectable mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. The cheesy filling melts into the mushrooms, creating a rich and creamy bite-sized treat. A sprinkle of parmesan on top adds a delightful crunch, making these an irresistible start to any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Bring a touch of Italy to your table with these vibrant caprese skewers. Fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves are threaded onto skewers and drizzled with a balsamic reduction. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil creates a harmonious blend of flavors. These skewers are not only visually appealing but also a refreshing and light appetizer that will tantalize your taste buds.

Desserts:

Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy mousse that combines the velvety texture of ripe avocados with the deep, intense flavor of dark chocolate. This dessert is not only decadent but also packed with healthy fats and antioxidants. A hint of vanilla extract and a touch of sea salt elevate the flavors, making it a perfect guilt-free treat. Serve chilled with a sprinkle of cocoa powder and a few fresh berries for a delightful finish.

Keto Cheesecake Bites: Satisfy your sweet tooth with these delightful cheesecake bites. Made with a creamy cream cheese filling and a buttery almond flour crust, these mini desserts are perfect for portion control. Infused with a hint of lemon zest and sweetened with erythritol, they offer a refreshing and tangy flavor profile. Top each bite with a dollop of whipped cream and a slice of strawberry for an elegant presentation.

Why trust this Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Recipe:

This low carb chicken parmesan recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a classic dish with a healthier twist. The combination of parmesan cheese and almond flour creates a crispy, flavorful coating without the carbs. Using olive oil and butter ensures a rich taste, while the marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese add a comforting, cheesy finish. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, this recipe is both accessible and delicious. Trust in the simplicity and flavor of this dish to satisfy your cravings without compromising your diet.

Share your thoughts on this Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! You can use provolone, cheddar, or even a mix of cheeses if you prefer. Just make sure it melts well.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and fry it when you're ready to serve. You can also assemble the dish and refrigerate it, then bake it when you're ready.

What can I serve with low carb chicken parmesan?

You can serve it with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some zucchini noodles to keep it low carb.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Definitely! Just make sure to check the label for added sugars if you're keeping it low carb. There are plenty of low carb marinara sauces available.