Crispy Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Living in the Dominican Republic means constantly adapting recipes to work with what’s available—and that’s exactly how this parmesan crusted chicken became a staple in our kitchen. Between juggling two kids still at home and managing type 2 diabetes, I rely on recipes that are both healthy and crowd-pleasing. This one ticks all the boxes: low in carbs, quick to make, and so flavorful even the picky eaters go back for seconds. The crispy parmesan crust gives it a satisfying crunch that doesn’t require any breadcrumbs or frying, making it a guilt-free favorite for our busy weeknights.

Imagine sinking your teeth into tender chicken coated in a golden, cheesy crust. This keto-friendly recipe keeps things simple while ensuring you enjoy every mouthful. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Keto-Friendly Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This dish presents a delightful option for those adhering to a keto diet.

I first made this on a week when our grocery delivery missed several key ingredients—I had chicken, eggs, and a block of parmesan. What started as improvisation quickly became a repeat request from the kids.

With juicy chicken breasts enveloped in a crispy layer of parmesan cheese, it embodies a satisfying meal that’s low in carbs and rich in flavor.

Perfect for anyone seeking a nutritious yet flavorful dinner, this parmesan crusted chicken will surely impress even the most discerning palates.

The Magic of Parmesan

Parmesan cheese plays a starring role in this recipe, contributing not only to the crispy texture but also to a savory depth that elevates the chicken.

The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika enhances the flavor profile, making each bite a mouthwatering experience.

Sometimes I’ll toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper if I want a bit of heat. My wife likes it that way for a little extra kick without adding carbs.

This recipe showcases how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.

Preparation Steps

Creating this dish requires minimal effort and time.

Begin by preheating the oven and preparing a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Mix the grated parmesan and seasonings to create the coating, then dip the chicken in eggs before pressing it into the mixture for an even layer of goodness.

Once coated, a drizzle of olive oil ensures a crispy finish as the chicken bakes in the oven.

Since we live at sea level, I’ve found that baking just a few minutes longer helps get the crust perfectly golden and crunchy, without drying out the meat.

In just 25 minutes, you can achieve perfectly golden-brown chicken that promises juicy tenderness inside.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this exquisite chicken, presentation can enhance the dining experience.

Plating the chicken on a white dish allows the golden crust to shine while fresh herbs add a touch of color.

Pairing it with vibrant sides, such as steamed broccoli, not only complements the dish visually but also adds a nutritious element to the meal.

We often serve this with sautéed local greens—kind of like spinach—grown just a few minutes down the road from our house. It’s a beautiful way to round out the meal.

Nutritional Benefits

This keto parmesan crusted chicken is not just delicious; it’s also a smart choice for health-conscious individuals.

With only 2 grams of carbohydrates per serving, it fits seamlessly into a low-carb lifestyle while providing 33 grams of protein.

The combination of healthy fats from the olive oil and cheese contributes to a satisfying meal that will keep you full and energized.

Making It Your Own

This recipe allows for versatility, enabling you to customize it to your taste.

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create a unique flavor that suits your palate.

Switching up the side dishes can also add variety to your meals, making this dish a staple in your weekly rotation.

I like to double the recipe and save a few pieces in the fridge for easy lunches—wrapped in lettuce with a little mustard, it’s a quick low-carb fix.

Keto-Friendly Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This keto parmesan crusted chicken recipe features juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy layer of parmesan cheese and seasoning. The result is a savory, satisfying meal that’s low in carbs and high in flavor, making it an excellent choice for those following a ketogenic lifestyle.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a bowl, mix the grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare the Chicken: In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each chicken breast into the eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated, then press it into the parmesan mixture to coat evenly.
4. Bake the Chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over them for added crispness. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
5. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot with your favorite keto-friendly sides.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Pro Tips

1. If your oven tends to run hot, consider reducing the temperature to 375°F and extending the cook time by 5 minutes to prevent burning the cheese.
2. Use finely grated parmesan—not shredded—to ensure it sticks better and forms a crispier crust.
3. Pat the chicken dry before dipping it in the egg; this helps the coating adhere more effectively.
4. Space the chicken out well on the tray so the hot air can circulate and crisp the crust evenly.
5. Letting the chicken rest before slicing helps retain juices and keeps it from drying out on the plate.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Parmesan Cheese → Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano for similar texture and flavor
• Olive Oil → Avocado oil for a higher smoke point and mild flavor
• Paprika → Smoked paprika for a deeper, more robust flavor
• Chicken Breasts → Boneless thighs for a juicier and more forgiving cut
• Eggs → Greek yogurt (2 tablespoons) for an egg-free option that still helps the coating stick

Tip from Grammie Shirley

Store leftover parmesan crusted chicken in a paper towel-lined container to keep the crust from getting soggy. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to revive the crunch.

Q&A

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and coat the chicken, then refrigerate it uncooked for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve for the best texture.

Q2: Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Absolutely. Bake the chicken first, cool completely, then freeze. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Q3: Can I use pre-shredded parmesan?

You can, but fresh grated parmesan sticks better and gives a crispier crust without added fillers.

Q4: What sides go well with this dish?

Steamed broccoli, roasted cauliflower, or a leafy green salad with vinaigrette make great keto-friendly companions.

Q5: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) is the safe internal temperature for chicken.

Nutrition & Serving Info

Servings: 4

Estimated Nutrition per Serving:

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Protein: 33g
• Fat: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Net Carbs: 2g

Whether you’re navigating a low-carb lifestyle like I am or just looking for a reliable dinner recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this parmesan crusted chicken delivers every time. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests, and the best part is you won’t feel like you’re missing out on anything. Around our table, meals like this help us stay on track with health goals while still enjoying what we eat—and that’s a win in any kitchen.