Description
A healthier twist on classic Chicken Parmesan, oven-baked or air-fried for crispiness without frying, using almond meal for a low-carb breading and topped with marinara and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or tenders)
- 1 large egg, whisked
- ¾ cup almond meal (or traditional breadcrumbs/other flour)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or sugar-free jarred)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare your workstation: If using chicken breasts, slice them lengthwise to create thinner cutlets or pound them to about ½-inch thickness for even cooking. In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg. In another shallow bowl, combine the almond meal, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken cutlet into the whisked egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, dredge the chicken in the almond meal mixture, pressing to ensure it’s fully coated.
- Cook the chicken: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). For extra crispiness, place chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
- Alternatively, for air fryer cooking: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook the coated chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
- Finish the Parmesan: Once the chicken is cooked, top each piece with marinara sauce and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Return to oven/air fryer: Bake or air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If using an oven, you can briefly broil for a golden-brown finish.
- Serve hot, perhaps with a side of zucchini noodles or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Cayenne pepper is optional for added heat; omit for a milder flavor.
- Use almond meal for a gluten-free, low-carb option; substitute with breadcrumbs for traditional texture.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Sugar-free marinara keeps the recipe healthier by reducing added sugars.