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The Ultimate Crispy Keto Chicken Parmesan: Baked or Air-Fried

A cross-section of crispy keto chicken parmesan topped with melted mozzarella and rich tomato sauce.

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Make this low carb chicken parmesan for a satisfying, guilt-free Italian dinner. This keto chicken parmesan recipe uses almond flour and Parmesan for a crispy crust, perfect for a quick low carb dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 1/2 inch thickness
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil (for pan-frying, optional)
  • 1 cup keto-friendly marinara sauce (check labels for no added sugar)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or spray an air fryer basket.
  2. Set up a dredging station: In one shallow dish, whisk the eggs. In a second dish, combine the almond flour, 3/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dip each pounded chicken breast first into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
  4. Next, press the chicken firmly into the almond flour and Parmesan mixture, coating both sides completely. This creates your parmesan crusted chicken keto coating.
  5. **For Baking:** Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
  6. **For Air Frying:** Place the coated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
  7. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven or air fryer. Top each breast with a spoonful of keto marinara sauce and a sprinkle of the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, followed by the mozzarella cheese.
  8. Return the chicken to the oven (or air fryer on a lower setting, about 350°F) for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil if using, and serve this easy keto weeknight meal immediately.

Notes

  • For an extra crispy texture when baking, you can lightly drizzle the tops of the coated chicken with oil before baking.
  • If you prefer pan-frying, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the coated chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown, then transfer to a baking dish to top with sauce and cheese and finish in the oven.
  • Always check your marinara sauce label; many commercial brands contain hidden sugars that are not low carb.

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