The keto lifestyle doesn’t have to be bland — this garlic, parmesan, chicken dish proves that flavor and nutrition can go hand in hand. The rich, buttery taste of cheese with its sharpness and creamy notes creates a gourmet experience that truly transforms your dinner table. Every bite feels like a treat, a little culinary magic that satisfies cravings without guilt. With its tender texture and aromatic spices, this recipe caters perfectly to anyone following a ketogenic diet, offering a hearty meal that’s both indulgent and balanced.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I’ve tried many versions of keto garlic parmesan chicken, but this one feels special — it’s simple, quick, and easy to follow, even on busy weeknights. The ingredients harmonize beautifully, creating a low-carb delight that’s perfect for dieters who want high flavor without compromise. The richness of melted cheese, golden-brown presentation, and impressive serving style make it a favorite at my home. Whether you serve it with salads, steamed veggies, or cauliflower rice, it’s a complete meal that will impress your family and even the most picky eaters. My family-friendly approach ensures that everyone loves this recipe, and I promise—it’s as filling, flavorful, and satisfying as it looks.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps them brown beautifully in the pan. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Melt the Butter
In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully combined. This creates a rich, savory coating that infuses the chicken with gourmet flavor.
3. Coat the Chicken
Brush or spoon the garlic-Parmesan butter mixture generously over the seasoned chicken breasts. Make sure each piece is fully covered for maximum flavor.
4. Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook for 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown. The cheese will crisp slightly, creating irresistible edges.
5. Garnish & Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
6. Pair with Your Favorite Keto Sides
Serve this one-pan keto garlic Parmesan chicken with cauliflower rice, roasted veggies, zucchini noodles, or a bright green side salad.
Nutrition Facts
(Based on 4 servings)
- Calories: ~360
- Protein: ~36g
- Carbohydrates: ~2g
- Fat: ~20g
- Fiber: ~0g
- Sugar: ~1g
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven and set it to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking.
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels to ensure they brown nicely when cooked.
- In a small bowl, mix your spices — garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper — until well combined.
- Season the chicken by rubbing the spice mixture evenly to coat thoroughly on all breasts.
- Prepare a large baking dish, then pour melted butter to coat the bottom evenly
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish on top of the butter.
- Add Parmesan by sprinkling grated cheese generously over each chicken breast.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish by removing the dish from the oven, letting it rest for a few minutes, then topping with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve your keto garlic parmesan chicken immediately — hot, flavorful, and ready to impress.
Notes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 37g
FAQs
1. Can I bake this instead of cooking it on the stovetop?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. It’s an easy, hands-off option for busy nights.
2. What sides pair well with keto garlic Parmesan chicken?
This dish is delicious with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, mashed cauliflower, steamed broccoli, or a crisp green salad. All are keto-friendly and gluten-free.
3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely—thighs work beautifully and offer even more flavor and juiciness. Adjust cooking time as needed since thighs may take slightly longer.
4. Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes! This chicken stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. It’s a great high-protein, low-carb option for weekly prep.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
You can! Substitute the butter with olive oil or ghee, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The taste remains rich and satisfying.
6. How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Avoid overcooking and let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in moisture and keeps every bite tender.
