Are you looking for a healthy, satisfying, and incredibly easy dinner recipe that fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle? Look no further! These Keto Chicken Cutlets are your new go-to quick dinner idea. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are pan-fried to crispy perfection, requiring minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is easily adaptable to your taste preferences. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and guilt-free meal!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by thinly slicing each chicken breast horizontally to create two cutlets from each breast. This ensures even cooking and quicker cooking time. You can use a meat mallet to pound them even thinner if you prefer.
Step 2: Create the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine the almond flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken cutlet into the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres evenly to both sides.
Step 4: Pan-Fry the Cutlets
Heat the olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken cutlets in the skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
Step 5: Cook to Perfection
Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the cooked chicken cutlets from the skillet and serve immediately. These keto chicken cutlets are fantastic on their own, or you can pair them with your favorite keto-friendly sides like a simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing, roasted vegetables, or cauliflower mash.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra crispy cutlets: Bread the chicken twice, dipping it into the almond flour mixture twice for a thicker, crispier coating.
- Add some spice: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the almond flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs and spices like Italian seasoning, paprika, or dried oregano for added flavor.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the cutlets during the last minute of cooking for extra cheesy goodness.
- Lemon zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the coating for a zesty flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Net Carbs: Approximately 2g
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 15g
This recipe offers a healthy and delicious way to enjoy chicken within a ketogenic diet. The ease of preparation makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights, and the customizable nature allows you to tailor it to your own preferences. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying homemade meal!