
The mesmerizing crunch of freshly fried chicken has always been one of my guilty pleasures, yet I often found myself yearning for a healthier, low-carb version that doesn’t skimp on flavor. That’s when I discovered this Easy Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe, and it's truly a game changer! In just 20 minutes, you can whip up an irresistible dish enriched with the savory notes of parmesan and spices, all while keeping your carb count in check.
Imagine golden chicken cutlets, enveloped in a crispy, cheesy crust, offering that satisfying crunch you crave—without any of the guilt of traditional breading. Perfect for busy weeknights or speedy dinners, this gluten-free delight is bound to impress both your family and friends with its flavor and simplicity. Whether you're an experienced home chef or just someone tired of fast food, this recipe is a culinary treasure that will keep you coming back for more. Let's dive in and bring some excitement back to your dinner table!

Why love this Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe?
Quick Cooking: In just 20 minutes, you can have a flavorful dinner that satisfies your cravings.
Flavorful Crust: The parmesan coating adds depth, while herbs and spices create a mouthwatering profile.
Health-Conscious Choice: This low-carb recipe fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle without sacrificing taste.
Easy Prep: With simple ingredients, you can make this dish even on hectic nights.
Versatile Option: Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal—keto-friendly sides that complement its deliciousness!
Each bite promises a delightful crunch that leaves you wanting more!
Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Ingredients
• Get ready to enjoy a low-carb delight!
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breast – Thin-cut helps save cooking time and ensures juicy meat.
For the Coating
• Mayonnaise – Acts as a moistening agent; can be replaced with a beaten egg mixed with water.
• Water – Thins the mayo for an easy wash that helps the coating adhere.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Provides the signature crunchy coating; choose grated for best texture.
• Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth to elevate the overall flavor profile.
• Onion Powder – Brings a subtle sweetness to balance the dish’s savoriness.
• Paprika – Gives a mild spice and gorgeous color to the crust.
For Cooking
• Olive Oil – Essential for frying, adds richness while preventing sticking, ensuring a perfect golden crust.
Dive into this delicious Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe and delight in every bite!
How to Make Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken
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Preheat: First, preheat your oven to 350°F if you're using thicker chicken cutlets. This will help ensure everything cooks through evenly.
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Prepare Chicken: Take your boneless, skinless chicken breast and pound it to a uniform thinness. Season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
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Mix Wash: In a shallow bowl, combine mayonnaise and water to create a smooth wash for the chicken. This keeps it moist and helps the coating stick.
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Combine Coating: In another bowl, mix together grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This flavorful blend forms the irresistible crust.
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Coat Chicken: Start by dipping the chicken cutlets into the mayo wash, then coat each piece in the parmesan mixture. Make sure they’re fully covered for that crunchy texture!
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Heat Oil: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces, then reduce heat to medium for cooking.
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Fry: Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes on one side until it turns golden brown. Flip it over and cook for another 3 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Oven Finish (if needed): If your chicken is thicker and not fully cooked, transfer it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure it's cooked through.
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Rest: Once removed from heat, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Optional: Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Variations
Feel free to make this delicious dish your own with a few simple twists that will elevate the flavors!
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Pork Alternative: Substitute boneless pork chops for chicken; just be sure they're thinly sliced for quick cooking.
For pork lovers, this variation brings a delightful change while maintaining gorgeous flavors! -
Spice it Up: Incorporate chili powder or cayenne for a zesty kick that turns up the heat on your dish.
A little heat can transform the whole experience, perfect for those wanting to tantalize their taste buds. -
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the parmesan coating for a fragrant, earthy twist.
Fresh herbs elevate the crust, adding depth and inviting aroma that will have your kitchen smelling divine. -
Dairy-Free Version: Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free twist that still delivers on flavor.
This swap is fantastic for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring no one misses out on deliciousness! -
Crispy Gluten-Free: Swap regular mayonnaise for a gluten-free option while keeping the rest of the ingredients as-is.
This lets everyone enjoy the delightful crunch without compromising on gluten-free needs—everyone’s happy! -
Veggie Version: Coat thick slices of eggplant or zucchini for a tasty vegetarian alternative that packs a crunch.
Satisfyingly crispy, this option not only caters to vegetarians but also adds a vibrant color to your table! -
Cheesy Kick: Stir in some mozzarella cheese along with the parmesan for a toe-curling cheesy crunch.
More cheese means more heartwarming indulgence—a sure hit at any dinner gathering! -
Baked Variation: For a healthier twist, bake the coated chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F for 15-18 minutes.
Baking creates a lighter alternative while still achieving that crispy exterior, offering everyone a guilt-free delight!
What to Serve with Easy Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
To create a delightful dining experience, consider pairing your chicken with these sumptuous sides and drinks.
- Cauliflower Rice: This fluffy, low-carb alternative provides a perfect canvas for the flavorful chicken while adding a light, fresh texture.
- Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts beautifully contrasts the cheesy crust, offering a depth of flavor in every bite.
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness to the plate without overwhelming the palate.
- Zucchini Noodles: These low-carb noodles soak up sauces beautifully and give a fun twist to the meal while enhancing its healthy profile.
- Steamed Asparagus: The tender-crisp texture of asparagus creates a satisfying mouthfeel that balances the crunch of the chicken perfectly.
- Creamy Avocado Dressing: Drizzle this rich, velvety sauce over your chicken or sides for an extra layer of flavor that elevates the whole dish.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink option that cleanses the palate while complementing the savory flavors of the meal without added sugars.
- Almond Flour Biscuits: These soft, buttery biscuits are a great low-carb side, perfect for scooping up any delicious remnants on your plate.
Each of these pairings enhances the delightful crunch of your Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken, rounding out the meal beautifully!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken cutlets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken by pounding and seasoning it up to 24 hours in advance; just keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain quality. Additionally, you can mix the mayonnaise wash and the parmesan coating a day ahead as well. Simply store them separately in airtight containers. When you're ready to serve, dip the chicken into the mayo wash, coat it in the parmesan mixture, and cook immediately, ensuring that you achieve that restaurant-quality crispiness. This prep means that you can enjoy a delicious homemade dinner with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken
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Uniform Thickness: Ensure your chicken cutlets are uniformly thin to promote even cooking and prevent dryness.
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Hot Skillet: Use a very hot non-stick skillet for frying; this helps to form a crispy crust while preventing the chicken from sticking.
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Don’t Rush the Flip: Wait until a good crust has formed before flipping the chicken to maintain the integrity of the coating.
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Air Fryer Option: If using an air fryer, coat only one side with the mixture and cook at 400°F for 10-13 minutes, depending on thickness.
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Enhance with Spice: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the parmesan mixture for added flavor, but avoid over-seasoning to preserve the base flavors in this low-carb Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe.
How to Store and Freeze Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover keto parmesan crusted chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place thawed chicken in an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to enjoy that crispy texture again.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the chicken cutlets in advance and store them in the fridge before frying, allowing you to easily cook a delicious low-carb meal whenever you're ready!

Easy Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. Opt for thin-cut chicken to save on cooking time, ensuring juicy meat and a perfect fit for the crispy parmesan crust.
How should I store leftover Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
To keep your chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy it as part of your lunch or dinner without losing flavor or texture!
Can I freeze Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Yes, indeed! For freezing, place the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet until it’s frozen solid. Once fully frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What are some tips for reheating the chicken?
When you're ready to reheat, set your oven to 350°F and place the thawed chicken inside for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to enjoy that crispy exterior again. You can also reheat it in a skillet to retain some of the crunch!
Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?
Very! If you're looking for alternatives, I suggest replacing the mayonnaise with a beaten egg mixed with water for the wash. Additionally, feel free to vary the spices in the coating; try adding Italian seasoning or chili powder for a different flavor profile!
Are there any dietary considerations for my Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
It's completely gluten-free and suitable for keto diets, making it a great choice for anyone following these eating plans. However, always check your pantry for potential allergens, especially with the parmesan cheese, if someone in your household has dairy sensitivities.

20-Minute Easy Keto Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe That Satisfies
Equipment
- Non-stick skillet
- Oven
- shallow bowl
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breast Thin-cut helps save cooking time and ensures juicy meat.
For the Coating
- ½ cup Mayonnaise Acts as a moistening agent; can be replaced with a beaten egg mixed with water.
- 1 tablespoon Water Thins the mayo for an easy wash that helps the coating adhere.
- ¾ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Provides the signature crunchy coating; choose grated for best texture.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds savory depth to elevate the overall flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Brings a subtle sweetness to balance the dish’s savoriness.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika Gives a mild spice and gorgeous color to the crust.
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoon Olive Oil Essential for frying, adds richness while preventing sticking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F if you're using thicker chicken cutlets.
- Pound the chicken breast to a uniform thinness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a shallow bowl, combine mayonnaise and water to create a wash.
- In another bowl, mix grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Dip chicken cutlets into the mayo wash, then coat each in the parmesan mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes.
- If chicken is thick, transfer to oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.





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