Craving an Italian-American classic that won’t derail your healthy eating goals? Look no further than this incredibly delicious Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Skillet. Crafted with tender chicken breasts, simmering homemade marinara sauce, and a luscious layer of melted mozzarella, this one-pan wonder brings all the vibrant flavors of traditional chicken parmigiana without the extra carbs. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also promises a hearty, satisfying meal that your entire family will absolutely adore. Prepare to be amazed by how flavorful and filling a low-carb dish can be!
If you’ve been longing for the comforting taste of chicken parmigiana but are conscious of the carbohydrate content, your culinary desires are about to be fulfilled. This Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Skillet masterfully captures every authentic flavor profile you expect from this beloved dish, all while significantly reducing the carbs. It’s a game-changer for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice taste for health. This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, requiring less than an hour from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome, home-cooked meal even on your busiest days. Get ready to add this simple yet incredibly satisfying chicken recipe to your regular rotation.
Exploring more delicious chicken creations? Be sure to try out our Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast for a crispy, cheesy delight, or venture into Mediterranean flavors with our Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken. Both are simple to prepare and packed with flavor, making them perfect additions to your family dinner menu!
Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Effortlessly Easy: This skillet chicken parmesan recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss. From preparing the rich marinara sauce from scratch to searing the chicken and baking it to golden perfection, each step is intuitive and straightforward. You’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your delicious meal, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
- A Family Favorite: Prepare for rave reviews! This low carb chicken parmesan is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The tender chicken, generously seasoned and smothered in a vibrant marinara, then topped with perfectly melted, gooey cheese, is an irresistible combination. Even the pickiest eaters, especially kids, will happily devour this cheesy, comforting dish, often asking for seconds! It’s wholesome, hearty, and universally appealing.
- Incredibly Quick: Time is often a precious commodity, especially during busy weekdays. This chicken recipe respects your schedule, coming together in under an hour. It’s the ultimate solution for a fast, flavorful, and filling dinner when you need something satisfying without a lengthy cooking process. Enjoy a gourmet-tasting meal with the convenience of a speedy preparation.
- Healthy & Guilt-Free: Indulge in classic Italian comfort food without the carb overload. By eliminating breading, this recipe significantly reduces carbohydrate content, making it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets. It focuses on lean protein, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats, allowing you to enjoy a beloved dish that supports your wellness goals.
- One-Pan Convenience: Who doesn’t love less cleanup? This recipe is primarily a one-pan wonder, utilizing a single oven-safe skillet from searing to baking. This means fewer dishes to wash after dinner, freeing up your evening for relaxation. Enjoy the ease of cooking and the simplicity of tidying up with this fantastic skillet meal.
Essential Ingredients for Your Skillet Chicken Parmesan
Crafting the perfect low-carb chicken parmesan starts with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the robust and comforting flavors of this classic dish:
- Olive Oil: A staple in Italian cooking, olive oil provides a rich base for sautéing and searing. Its fruity notes complement the other ingredients beautifully. While extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor, any good quality cooking oil like avocado oil can be used for its high smoke point.
- Onion: We recommend a yellow onion for its balanced sweetness and pungency, which mellows beautifully when sautéed to create a flavorful foundation for the marinara sauce. Feel free to experiment with white onions if you prefer a sharper flavor, or sweet onions for a milder taste.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is non-negotiable for an authentic Italian flavor profile. Minced fresh garlic offers an aromatic depth that simply cannot be replicated by pre-minced jarred versions. Don’t skimp on this essential ingredient!
- Tomatoes: This recipe utilizes a powerful duo: concentrated tomato paste for deep, rich umami flavor and canned crushed tomatoes for the sauce’s body and fresh tomato taste. Opt for high-quality crushed tomatoes for the best results, ensuring a vibrant and naturally sweet marinara.
- Seasoning Blend: A generous hand with seasonings is key. Our blend includes classic Italian seasoning, a pinch of red chili flakes for a subtle kick, salt, freshly ground black pepper, sweet paprika, and onion powder. This combination creates a harmonious flavor profile that’s both complex and comforting.
- Sugar: Just a touch of sugar is added to the marinara sauce, not for sweetness, but to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. This small addition enhances the overall depth of flavor, making the sauce incredibly smooth and palatable.
- Fresh Basil: The vibrant, aromatic notes of fresh basil are crucial for an authentic marinara. Stirred in at the end, it brightens the sauce and adds a burst of freshness. Don’t substitute dried basil here; the fresh leaves make all the difference.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. Choose evenly sized breasts, or pound thicker pieces to an even thickness (about ½-¾ inch) to ensure they cook uniformly and remain tender. This prevents dry, overcooked chicken.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The iconic melted cheese layer comes from mozzarella. For the absolute best melt and stretch, we highly recommend freshly shredded whole milk mozzarella over pre-shredded varieties. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder their ability to melt smoothly.
How To Master Low Carb Chicken Parmesan in Your Skillet
Creating this spectacular low-carb chicken parmesan is a journey of simple steps leading to a profoundly flavorful destination. Follow these instructions to prepare a meal that’s sure to impress:
- Prepare for Perfection: Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). This ensures your oven is ready to cook the chicken and melt the cheese beautifully as soon as the skillet goes in.
- Season the Chicken: Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and generously season them on both sides. Rub them evenly with paprika, onion powder, Italian seasonings, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This initial seasoning is vital for building a rich flavor base directly into the chicken itself.
- Sear the Chicken to Golden: Heat an oven-proof skillet (cast iron or stainless steel works wonderfully) over a medium-high flame. Add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Sear them for 4-5 minutes per side, aiming for a beautiful golden-brown crust. This searing step locks in moisture and develops incredible flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Craft the Marinara Sauce: Using the same skillet (don’t clean it, those browned bits add flavor!), add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Introduce the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant, and the garlic is lightly golden.
- Simmer for Depth: Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, remaining Italian seasonings, sugar, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together beautifully. Just before removing from heat, stir in the fresh basil leaves. Reserve about ½ cup of this delicious marinara sauce on the side for later use or extra serving.
- Layer the Masterpiece: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the prepared marinara sauce. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce over the top of each chicken breast. Finally, generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over each piece of chicken.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is bubbling, golden, and perfectly melted, and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before garnishing generously with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot, directly from the skillet, and watch it disappear!
Expert Tips for Making the Best Skillet Parmesan Chicken
Elevate your low carb chicken parmesan from great to extraordinary with these helpful tips and tricks:
- Embrace Quality Jarred Marinara (for speed): If you’re truly pressed for time, a high-quality jarred marinara sauce can be a lifesaver. Look for brands with minimal added sugar and natural ingredients to keep it low-carb and flavorful. However, for the ultimate taste, homemade is always best!
- Prevent Dry Chicken – Master the Thermometer: Overcooked chicken is tough and dry. The key to perfectly tender, juicy chicken parmesan is to cook it just right. Always use an instant-read cooking thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is safe and delicious when it reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove it from the oven immediately once it hits this mark.
- Fresh Garlic is a Game-Changer: While convenient, pre-minced garlic in a jar often lacks the pungent, vibrant flavor of freshly minced cloves. Taking a few extra moments to mince fresh garlic will dramatically enhance the aroma and taste of your marinara sauce.
- Shred Your Own Mozzarella: This tip is crucial for a superior melt. Pre-shredded mozzarella often contains anti-caking agents like cellulose, which prevent the cheese from melting into a smooth, gooey layer. Freshly shredded whole milk mozzarella, however, will give you that irresistible, stretchy, golden-brown topping.
- Pounding Chicken for Even Cooking: For thicker chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness (about ½-¾ inch) before seasoning and searing. This ensures uniform cooking, prevents one part from drying out while another is still raw, and helps the chicken absorb flavors more effectively.
- Searing for Flavor and Texture: When searing the chicken, resist the urge to move it constantly. Allow it to cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side to develop a beautiful, flavorful golden-brown crust. This initial caramelization adds a significant layer of depth to the finished dish.
- Oven-Safe Skillet Alternatives: If you don’t own an oven-safe skillet, simply transfer the seared chicken and marinara sauce to a greased baking dish (such as a 9×13 inch casserole dish) before layering with cheese and baking. The result will be just as delicious, though you might lose the rustic “skillet” presentation.
- Rest Your Chicken: After removing the skillet from the oven, let the chicken parmesan rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite. It also gives the cheese a moment to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Low Carb Chicken Parmesan
Leftover low carb chicken parmesan stores beautifully! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat with a lid, or in the microwave. You can also bake it at a lower temperature (around 300°F/150°C) until warmed through, but be mindful not to overcook the chicken and dry it out.
Yes, this recipe freezes well! Once completely cooled, place individual portions of low carb chicken parmesan in freezer-safe bags or containers. Store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. For best results, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat using the same methods as for refrigerated leftovers.
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative. They tend to be more forgiving and stay juicier due to their higher fat content. The cooking time might vary slightly, so always rely on an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
There is no difference! “Chicken parmesan” and “chicken parmigiana” are simply two different names for the exact same delicious Italian-American dish. “Parmigiana” is the Italian term, while “Parmesan” is the Anglicized version, commonly used in English-speaking countries.
Mozzarella cheese is traditionally used in chicken parmesan for its exceptional melting properties. When baked, it transforms into a wonderfully gooey, stretchy, and mildly flavored blanket that perfectly complements the savory chicken and tangy marinara sauce. Its ability to melt smoothly and create that classic cheese pull is truly what makes the dish so appealing.
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a variety of low-carb and regular sides. For a truly low-carb meal, consider serving it alongside some Low Carb Garlic Bread, our Cheesy Cauliflower Breadsticks, a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted asparagus. If carbs aren’t a concern for others at the table, crispy potato sides like Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes or Crispy Potato Wedges are always a hit. Zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash also make excellent low-carb pasta alternatives.
Absolutely! Feel free to sauté some sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the onions and garlic when preparing the marinara sauce. This is a great way to boost your vegetable intake and add more nutritional value to the dish without altering the low-carb nature.
Yes, as written, this Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Skillet is naturally gluten-free! It doesn’t use any breading or flour, making it a safe and delicious option for those avoiding gluten.
More Irresistible Chicken Recipes to Try
- Chicken Teriyaki Stir Fry
- Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders
- Chinese Lemon Chicken
- Lemon & Garlic Chicken (Skillet Recipe)
- Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Roll Ups
- Baked Chicken Breast with Mushrooms
We truly hope you enjoy all the culinary delights we share, especially this mouth-watering Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Skillet recipe. It’s a testament that healthy eating can be incredibly flavorful and deeply satisfying. We encourage you to try it in your own kitchen, savor every bite, and share this fantastic dish with your loved ones!
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Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Skillet
By: Mariam Ezzeddine
Made with tender chicken breasts, homemade marinara sauce, and a layer of melty cheese, this Low Carb Chicken Parmesan Skillet comes together quickly and easily for a delicious weeknight dinner. Filling, hearty, and tasty, your whole family will love it.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
To prepare marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasonings
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 tsp salt & pepper
- ¼ cup fresh basil, roughly chopped
To prepare chicken parmesan
- 4 whole boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasonings
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, to serve
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230°C).
- Season the chicken breasts generously with paprika, onion powder, Italian seasonings, salt and pepper on all sides.
- Heat an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sear the seasoned chicken breasts on both sides for 4-5 minutes each, until golden brown. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, prepare the marinara sauce: Add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasonings, sugar, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves. Reserve about ½ cup of marinara sauce and set it aside.
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the marinara sauce. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the prepared marinara sauce over each chicken breast. Top evenly with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes (depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts) until the cheeses are melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, and the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish the low carb chicken parmesan with fresh basil leaves and serve hot directly from the skillet.
Notes
- You can opt for a high-quality jarred marinara sauce to save time, ensuring it’s low in sugar for a low-carb version.
- To prevent dry chicken, use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).
- Freshly minced garlic provides superior flavor compared to pre-minced varieties.
- For the best melt, shred your own mozzarella cheese instead of using pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- When searing chicken, avoid moving it frequently to allow a crust to form, enhancing flavor and texture.
- If you do not have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the seared chicken and sauce to a greased baking dish before adding cheese and baking.
- Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 277kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 23mg | Sodium: 1450mg | Potassium: 854mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 1235IU | Vitamin C: 24mg | Calcium: 246mg | Iron: 4mg