Save This dish features juicy baked chicken breasts seasoned and coated with almond flour and Parmesan cheese, then topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. Served on a bed of lightly sautéed zucchini noodles, it offers a flavorful and low-carb alternative. The combination of savory herbs, melted cheese, and fresh basil creates a satisfying and wholesome meal that is both gluten-free-friendly and rich in protein.
I first attempted chicken parmesan on a Tuesday night after my friend Sarah mentioned she missed Italian comfort food but was watching her carbs. The smell of melting mozzarella and bubbling marinara filled my tiny apartment kitchen, and when she took that first bite, her eyes actually closed.
Last summer I made this for a dinner party when everyone was doing some version of low-carb eating. My cousin Mike, whos a pasta purist, actually went back for seconds and asked if I could make it again for his birthday dinner.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: I pound them slightly to even thickness so they cook evenly and stay juicy
- Almond flour: This creates the most incredibly crispy coating while keeping it gluten-free and low-carb
- Parmesan cheese: Grate it fresh yourself if possible, it makes such a difference in the coating
- Italian herbs: Dried oregano, basil, and thyme work beautifully here
- Marinara sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade if you have time
- Mozzarella cheese: Shredded melts more evenly than fresh slices for this topping
- Zucchini: Spiralize them right before cooking so they dont get watery
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare:
- Heat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later
- Season the chicken:
- Pat those chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder
- Set up your coating station:
- Whisk the egg in one shallow bowl, and mix the almond flour, Parmesan, and Italian herbs in another bowl
- Dredge the chicken:
- Dip each breast into the egg, let the excess drip off, then press into the flour mixture until well coated
- Bake the chicken:
- Arrange the coated chicken on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes until golden and cooked through
- Add the toppings:
- Remove the chicken, spoon marinara over each piece, and sprinkle with mozzarella and extra Parmesan
- Melt the cheese:
- Return to the oven for 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown in spots
- Make the noodles:
- While the chicken finishes, spiralize your zucchini and sauté them in olive oil for just 2 to 3 minutes
- Plate it up:
- Divide the zucchini noodles among plates, top with chicken parmesan, and scatter fresh basil on top
Save This recipe became my go-to when I need to feed a crowd where everyone has different eating preferences. Theres something magical about watching people realize that healthy food can still be incredibly satisfying.
Making It Ahead
You can bread the chicken up to a day ahead and store it layered between parchment paper in the refrigerator. When youre ready to cook, just pop it in the oven.
Sauce Variations
Sometimes I add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara for a little kick. Other times I mix in some roasted red peppers for extra sweetness and depth.
Side Dish Ideas
A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Roasted broccoli or asparagus also work beautifully alongside.
- Keep some extra marinara warm for serving
- Have red pepper flakes on the table for heat lovers
- Offer extra Parmesan for sprinkling
Save This is the kind of meal that makes you forget youre eating light. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays moist while baking?
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Season the chicken well and avoid overbaking. Coating with almond flour or breadcrumbs locks in moisture and helps create a crispy crust.
- → Can I substitute zucchini noodles with other vegetables?
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Yes, spaghetti squash or gluten-free pasta are excellent alternatives to zucchini noodles for varied textures and flavors.
- → What is the best way to melt the cheese evenly?
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Baking the chicken with marinara and cheese for the last 8-10 minutes ensures the cheese melts evenly and becomes bubbly.
- → How can I make the chicken crust crispier?
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After baking, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes to create a crispier, golden crust without drying out the meat.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
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Using almond flour or certified gluten-free breadcrumbs makes this dish compatible with gluten-free dietary needs.
