Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

Oven Baked Low Carb Chicken Parmesan is a delightful dish that brings all the classic flavors of Italian cuisine without the high carb count. Perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or a cozy night in, this recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy Keto-friendly crust. The homemade tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese elevate this dish to a whole new level, making it a favorite for everyone on a low-carb diet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious dish quickly.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian seasoning and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use this recipe as a base and customize it with your favorite herbs or vegetables.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this Chicken Parmesan is guilt-free.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cheesy chicken; this dish will please even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Shallow bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and crispiness for your chicken.
• Shallow bowl: Ideal for whisking eggs and mixing seasonings without making a mess.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Coating

• 1 pound chicken breasts (2 large breasts)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 pinch salt (to season)
• 2 eggs
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 pinch salt (to taste)
• 1 pinch cracked pepper (to taste)

For the Cheese Mixture

• 1 cup parmesan cheese (fresh grated)
• 1/2 cup almond flour (not almond meal)

For Cooking

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Sauce Topping

• 26 ounces marinara sauce (see notes to make from scratch)
• 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (fresh)
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes (crushed, optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil (or parsley)

How to Make Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and cracked pepper.
2. In another bowl, mix together parmesan cheese and almond flour.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture first, then coat with the parmesan mixture.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil and melted butter over each piece. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

Remove from oven and top each piece with marinara sauce. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over each breast. Return to oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious Low Carb Chicken Parmesan, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

Low Carb Chicken Parmesan is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a light meal or something hearty, here are some excellent serving suggestions.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple mix of lettuce, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes dressed with olive oil and vinegar.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with a creamy dressing, croutons (low carb version), and parmesan cheese.

Over Zucchini Noodles

• Zoodles: Spiralized zucchini offers a low-carb alternative to pasta, soaking up the delicious marinara sauce beautifully.

With Cauliflower Rice

• Fluffy Cauliflower Rice: Lightly seasoned cauliflower rice serves as a perfect base for your rich chicken parmesan.

As a Sandwich

• Low Carb Bread: Serve the chicken parmesan on low-carb bread for a satisfying sandwich experience without the carbs.

How to Perfect Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

To achieve the best results with your Low Carb Chicken Parmesan, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose the Right Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking and flavor.
• Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning the chicken well; it enhances overall taste.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and homemade marinara make a significant difference in flavor.
• Get Crispy Coating: Ensure your coating includes almond flour for that perfect crunch without the carbs.
• Bake, Don’t Fry: Baking gives you that crispy texture while keeping it healthier than frying.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking ensures juiciness inside.

Best Side Dishes for Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

Pairing side dishes with Low Carb Chicken Parmesan can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to complement this delicious dish.

1. Garlic Butter Broccoli: Tender broccoli florets sautéed in garlic butter add flavor and nutrition.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil and seasonings make a tasty side.
3. Riced Cauliflower Stir-Fry: A colorful mix of veggies with cauliflower rice sautéed in soy sauce or coconut aminos.
4. Creamy Spinach: Sautéed spinach cooked with cream cheese provides richness while keeping carbs low.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or cauliflower rice mixed with spices offer variety and color.
6. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad dressed with lemon juice and dill makes for a light contrast to the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Low Carb Chicken Parmesan, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some tips to help you nail this dish.

• Using the wrong chicken cut: Always opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. Thighs can be too fatty and alter the dish’s texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Seasoning is key! Be sure to use enough salt and spices in both the coating and sauce to enhance flavors.
• Skipping the resting time: Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps retain moisture. Avoid cutting into it too soon!
• Overbaking the cheese: Keep an eye on your mozzarella cheese. Baking it too long can lead to a rubbery texture instead of a gooey melt.
• Ignoring sauce quality: A good marinara sauce makes all the difference. Use homemade or high-quality store-bought sauce for best flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Low Carb Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

• Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Low Carb Chicken Parmesan

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of marinara sauce if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries regarding Low Carb Chicken Parmesan.

Can I use different types of cheese for Low Carb Chicken Parmesan?

You can certainly experiment with different cheeses! While mozzarella is traditional, provolone or even goat cheese can add unique flavors.

How do I make my Low Carb Chicken Parmesan gluten-free?

To ensure it’s gluten-free, use almond flour as specified in the recipe. Check that your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.

Can I prepare Low Carb Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread and assemble it before baking. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to cook.

What sides pair well with Low Carb Chicken Parmesan?

This dish goes great with steamed vegetables, salad, or zucchini noodles for a complete low-carb meal.

Final Thoughts

Low Carb Chicken Parmesan is a delightful dish that offers all the classic flavors without the carbs. It’s versatile enough for any weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or add veggies for extra nutrition!