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Keto Chicken Parmesan Bake - Comfort Food Without the Carbs

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally into cutlets (or use thighs if you prefer)
  • Almond flour: 3/4 cup, superfine if possible
  • Grated Parmesan: 1 cup, divided (finely grated works best for coating)
  • Eggs: 2 large, beaten
  • Italian seasoning: 1 tablespoon
  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt and pepper: 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil or avocado oil: 2–3 tablespoons for pan-searing
  • Low-sugar marinara sauce: 2 cups (look for 4–6g net carbs per 1/2 cup)
  • Shredded mozzarella: 2 cups
  • Fresh basil or parsley: A handful, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, for heat

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: If using breasts, slice them horizontally into even cutlets. Pat dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick and encourages browning.
  2. Season generously: Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes while you prep the coating.
  3. Make the coating: In a shallow bowl, combine almond flour, 3/4 cup grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
  4. Coat the chicken: Dip each cutlet in the egg, let excess drip off, then press into the almond-Parmesan mixture to coat both sides. Set aside on a plate.
  5. Pan-sear for crunch: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden. You don’t need to cook it through here—it will finish in the oven.
  6. Assemble the bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread about 1/2 cup marinara in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange the seared cutlets in a single layer on top.
  7. Sauce and cheese: Spoon the remaining marinara over the chicken (don’t drown it), then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and the remaining 1/4 cup grated Parmesan. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like.
  8. Bake until bubbly: Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  9. Broil for color: Switch to broil for 2–3 minutes to brown the top. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
  10. Rest and garnish: Let it rest 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley before serving.
  11. Serve smart: Pair with zucchini noodles, roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or a simple salad to keep it keto.