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Keto Chicken Parmesan Bake - A Cozy, Low-Carb Weeknight Favorite

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5–2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3–4 medium)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for greasing)
  • 1 cup marinara sauce, no added sugar (choose a low-carb brand)
  • 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons almond flour (optional, for light crust)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
  3. Optional quick sear: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. This step boosts flavor and reduces baking time, but you can skip it if you’re in a rush.
  4. Arrange in the dish: Place the seasoned (or seared) chicken in the greased baking dish in a single layer.
  5. Add the sauce: Spoon the marinara sauce over the chicken, coating each piece. Aim for even coverage so the chicken stays moist.
  6. Cheesy topping: Mix Parmesan with almond flour if using. Sprinkle this mixture over the sauced chicken. Top evenly with the shredded mozzarella. Dot the top with small pieces of butter if you want extra richness.
  7. Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes if you seared the chicken, or 25–30 minutes if you didn’t. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Broil for color: For a browned, restaurant-style finish, switch to broil for 2–3 minutes at the end. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  9. Rest and garnish: Let the dish rest 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
  10. Serve: Pair with zucchini noodles, roasted broccoli, a simple green salad, or spaghetti squash for a complete keto-friendly meal.