Servings: 4
Total Time: 35 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per Serving: ~420
Macros (per serving): 42g Protein / 6g Net Carbs / 24g Fat / 2g Fiber
Intro
If you’ve been craving a cozy, golden-crusted dinner that tastes just like your favorite Italian comfort food but still fits your healthy eating goals, this Keto Chicken Parmesan is exactly what you need. It’s crisp on the outside, juicy inside, and blanketed in melty cheese — everything you love about classic Chicken Parm, made low carb and macro-friendly.
This recipe is perfect for anyone following a keto, low-carb, clean-eating, or high-protein lifestyle. With no breadcrumbs in sight and a light, flavorful coating, this low-carb Chicken Parmesan satisfies big cravings without the heavy, carb-loaded aftermath. It has become a staple for busy weeknights, quick meal prep, and nourishing weight-loss-friendly dinners.
Simple ingredients, quick steps, and a delicious payoff — that’s the promise of this healthy Chicken Parmesan. One bite and you’ll wonder why you ever made it any other way.
Look at the Recipe
- Crispy, golden chicken cutlets topped with bubbling mozzarella and fresh herbs
- Savory marinara flavors with a clean, Italian comfort vibe
- Keto and low-carb friendly thanks to a grain-free crust and wholesome, high-protein ingredients
Ingredients Needed
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced horizontally into 4 cutlets
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Low-Carb Breading
- 1 cup finely grated Parmesan
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Wet Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Topping
- 1 cup sugar-free marinara sauce
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
How to Make Our Chicken Parmesan
- Prepare the Chicken: Pound the chicken cutlets lightly until even in thickness. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Set Up Your Breading Station: In one bowl, whisk eggs with heavy cream. In another, mix Parmesan, almond flour, and garlic powder.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each cutlet into the egg mixture, then press firmly into the low-carb breading to coat completely.
- Crisp the Cutlets: Heat oil in a skillet over medium. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
- Add Sauce & Cheese: Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Spoon marinara over each piece and top with a generous layer of mozzarella.
- Bake: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Serve: Finish with fresh basil and enjoy a clean, keto-friendly Chicken Parmesan that tastes restaurant-level delicious.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked, breaded cutlets for meal prep, or freeze fully cooked portions for 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
- Serve With (Low-Carb): Zucchini noodles, roasted vegetables, spaghetti squash, or a fresh salad with olive oil and lemon.
Tips & FAQs
Can I make this Chicken Parmesan without almond flour?
Yes. Replace the almond flour with crushed pork rinds for an ultra-crispy, zero-carb crust.
Can I air fry the Chicken Parmesan?
Absolutely. Air fry breaded cutlets at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, add marinara and cheese, then air fry for another 2–3 minutes.
What sugar-free marinara works best?
Choose a clean-label marinara with no added sugar. Look for options under 4g net carbs per half-cup.
Can I meal prep this?
Yes — cook the chicken through step 4, freeze or refrigerate, and bake with sauce and cheese right before serving.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes. Boneless thighs work beautifully and remain juicy. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Macros & Plan Compatibility
| Plan | Notes |
|---|---|
| Keto & Low-Carb | ~3g net carbs per slice. Grain-free and sugar-free. |
| Slimming | About 5 syns per slice; use light cream and cheese to reduce syns. |
| High-Protein | ~10g protein per slice. Can add whey protein to filling for extra protein. |
| Weight Watchers | ~4 SmartPoints per slice (Blue plan) using reduced-fat cream cheese and light cream. |
