Keto Crispy Chicken Parmesan with Low-Carb Basil Pesto

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-04-05 · Updated 2026-04-05

Crispy, high-protein chicken breasts coated in almond flour and topped with vibrant basil pesto and melted mozzarella, all under 10 grams of net carbs per serving. This italian-inspired chicken (keto, high protein) ready in about 35 minutes blends boneless, skinless chicken breasts, almond flour, teaspoon garlic powder into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 490 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 490 cal/serving

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Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup almond flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Step 1: In a shallow dish, combine 1/2 cup almond flour, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix well to distribute the seasonings.
Step 2: Pat 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then dredge each breast in the almond flour mixture, pressing to adhere evenly.
Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot.
Step 4: Carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
Step 5: While the chicken cooks, in a food processor, combine 1 cup fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup pine nuts, 2 cloves garlic, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Pulse until finely chopped, then with the processor running, slowly drizzle in 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil until smooth and well combined.
Step 6: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and spoon 2 tablespoons of the pesto over each breast. Top each with 1/8 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 7: Broil in the oven set to high for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Keto Crispy Chicken Parmesan with Low-Carb Basil Pesto take to make?

Total time is about 35 minutes (20 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Keto Crispy Chicken Parmesan with Low-Carb Basil Pesto?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Keto Crispy Chicken Parmesan with Low-Carb Basil Pesto?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Keto Crispy Chicken Parmesan with Low-Carb Basil Pesto for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Keto Crispy Chicken Parmesan with Low-Carb Basil Pesto keto?

Yes — this recipe is tagged keto, high protein, low carb based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.