Skillet Chicken Parm with Cashew Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A Whole30-friendly take on chicken parm, featuring seared chicken breasts topped with a rich cashew-based sauce and fresh basil. This italian-inspired chicken (whole30, paleo) ready in about 35 minutes blends almond flour, Italian seasoning, divided sea salt 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 410 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: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves 4 Italian cuisine 410 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup almond flour, 1 tbsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Coat 4 pounded chicken breasts evenly with the almond flour mixture.
  2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F), then remove and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In a blender, combine the soaked 1 cup raw cashews, 3/4 cup water, 2 tbsp nutritional yeast, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1/2 tsp salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  4. Step 4: Return the chicken to the skillet, pour the cashew sauce over the top, and cook over low heat for 3-4 minutes until heated through and sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Step 5: Sprinkle 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil over the chicken before serving.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Skillet Chicken Parm with Cashew Sauce take to make?

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

How do I store leftover Skillet Chicken Parm with Cashew Sauce?

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 Skillet Chicken Parm with Cashew Sauce?

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 Skillet Chicken Parm with Cashew Sauce 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 Skillet Chicken Parm with Cashew Sauce whole30?

Yes — this recipe is tagged whole30, paleo, dairy free, gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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