Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breasts

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Author: Madilyn
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Crispy, golden, and bursting with flavor — these Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breasts are a dream come true for anyone craving comfort food without the carbs. With a perfectly crisp exterior and tender, juicy center, this easy low-carb chicken recipe delivers big flavor in under 20 minutes. It’s a simple, satisfying dinner the whole family will love — whether you’re following a keto diet or just looking for a healthy, high-protein meal option.

Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breasts 9

Perfect for busy weeknights, these chicken breasts need only a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Parmesan cheese, a touch of seasoning, and a quick pan-fry create a crunchy coating that makes every bite irresistible.

Easy Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a fast, foolproof chicken recipe that tastes restaurant-quality, this one is it. These Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breasts come together in minutes, and they’re naturally gluten-free and low in carbs. Instead of breadcrumbs, shredded Parmesan cheese forms the crispy, cheesy crust that locks in the chicken’s moisture.

With only one pan and a few ingredients, this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious. Plus, it’s versatile — you can serve it on its own, over a salad, or even topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella for a keto-friendly spin on Chicken Parmesan.

The secret to the magic? Shredded Parmesan cheese melts, browns, and transforms into a crunchy shell that seals in all the juicy goodness. Every bite has that perfect balance of cheesy crispiness and savory tenderness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe proves that simple ingredients can make something extraordinary. Here’s what you’ll need for these Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breasts:

  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (not grated powder-style)
  • 1 large egg, whisked
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2–3 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil) for frying

When shopping for Parmesan, choose the shredded variety found in the refrigerated cheese section — usually in bags or tubs. The finely powdered version (like the one in green cans) doesn’t melt or crisp up the same way. If you prefer freshly grated cheese, use a box grater to create thicker shreds — not a fine Microplane-style texture.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Making these crispy chicken breasts is quick and straightforward. Here’s how to get that perfect crust:

  1. Prep the chicken:
    Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and carefully slice each one in half horizontally to create thin cutlets. This helps them cook evenly and quickly. If needed, pound the chicken between plastic wrap until even in thickness.
  2. Season the meat:
    Sprinkle both sides of the chicken cutlets with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Set up your breading station:
    In one shallow bowl, whisk the egg. In another, spread out the shredded Parmesan cheese. Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg, letting any excess drip off, then press it firmly into the Parmesan cheese, coating both sides completely.
  4. Heat the oil:
    In a large non-stick skillet, heat 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. The oil should fully coat the bottom of the pan — this helps prevent sticking and ensures an even golden crust.
  5. Cook the chicken:
    Place the coated chicken cutlets into the hot oil. Don’t move them for about 5 minutes — this allows the Parmesan to crisp and adhere to the meat. Once the bottom is golden and crispy, carefully flip each piece with a spatula or tongs. Cook for another 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

The result? Perfectly browned, crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breasts that you won’t believe are low-carb.

Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breasts 10

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it in so many ways:

  • Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.
  • Pair it with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb Italian meal.
  • Top it with a spoonful of sugar-free marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for an easy Keto Chicken Parmesan twist.
  • Slice it over a Caesar salad for a restaurant-worthy lunch.

Whatever you choose, these Parmesan-crusted chicken breasts are sure to impress!

Tips for Perfect Results

Here are a few pro tips to make sure your chicken turns out perfect every time:

  • Use shredded Parmesan — not finely grated. The thicker texture is what creates that crispy coating.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed so the chicken sears instead of steaming.
  • Use a non-stick skillet and enough oil to fully coat the bottom. This prevents the cheese from sticking.
  • Let the crust set. Avoid moving the chicken until it’s golden brown — flipping too soon can make the crust fall off.
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Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breasts


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  • Author: Madilyn
  • Total Time: 20 min

Description

This Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breasts recipe delivers a perfectly crunchy, cheesy coating around tender, juicy chicken cutlets. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s a quick, low-carb dinner that works for busy weeknights or a special weekend meal. Gluten-free, keto-friendly, and full of flavor — it’s comfort food without the guilt.


Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts (about 1.5 lb / 680 g), sliced horizontally into cutlets

1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (preferably refrigerated, not powdered)

1 large egg

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoningSalt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

23 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)


Instructions

  1. Prepare chicken: Place chicken breasts on a cutting board. Slice each breast horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Pound gently between plastic wrap if thickness is uneven.

  2. Season: Sprinkle both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

  3. Set up breading station:

    • Bowl 1: whisk egg.

    • Bowl 2: shredded Parmesan cheese.

  4. Coat chicken: Dip each cutlet into the egg, letting excess drip off, then press into Parmesan cheese, coating both sides.

  5. Heat oil: In a large non-stick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

  6. Cook chicken: Place cutlets in the skillet without overcrowding. Cook for about 5 minutes without moving until crust is golden brown. Flip and cook another 4–5 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

  7. Serve: Plate immediately with sides of choice. Optionally top with marinara sauce and mozzarella for a keto Chicken Parmesan twist.

Notes

  • Parmesan cheese choice: Refrigerated shredded Parmesan produces the best crust. Avoid powdered varieties.
  • Even thickness: Slicing and pounding chicken ensures even cooking and a consistent crust.
  • Oil temperature: Medium-high heat creates a golden crust without burning the cheese.
  • Serving ideas: Serve over zucchini noodles, a fresh salad, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete keto meal.
  • Make ahead tip: You can prep the chicken and bread it in advance, then store in the fridge until ready to cook.
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 10 min
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
Hey, I'm Madilyn!

I'm a passionate home cook sharing the flavors of my heritage and travels. Through Recipeside, I create approachable recipes that blend comfort food with international influences, helping families make delicious memories together around the dinner table.

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