Keto Chicken Cutlets
Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded thin)
  • 1 cup almond flour (or crushed pork rinds for extra crispiness)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for frying)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
  • Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

  • Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch thick). This ensures they cook evenly.
  • Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Set Up the Breading Station:

  • In one bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream.
  • In another bowl, mix the almond flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning.

3. Coat the Chicken:

  • Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
  • Then, dredge the chicken in the almond flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken so it sticks well.

4. Cook the Cutlets:

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Once the oil is hot, add the chicken cutlets to the pan, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
  • Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

5. Serve:

  • Once cooked, place the cutlets on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, makes 4 servings):

  • Calories: ~400
  • Fat: ~30g
  • Protein: ~30g
  • Net Carbs: ~3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly depending on the brands and quantities of the ingredients used.

Tips:

  1. For Extra Crispiness: You can replace almond flour with crushed pork rinds for an extra crispy crust. It will also lower the carb count.
  2. Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the cutlets. If the oil isn’t hot, the coating will absorb too much oil and won’t get crispy.
  3. Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to add herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil for extra flavor. You can also spice it up with a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
  4. Oven-Baking Option: For a healthier option, you can bake the cutlets at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Benefits:

  • Low-Carb: This keto version uses almond flour or pork rinds instead of traditional breadcrumbs, making it low in carbs and ideal for keto.
  • High in Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, keeping you full and energized.
  • Healthy Fats: Parmesan cheese and the oil used for frying provide healthy fats that are perfect for a keto diet.
  • Easy and Quick: With minimal prep and cooking time, these chicken cutlets make for a perfect weeknight dinner.

Enjoy these Keto Chicken Cutlets with a side of sautéed veggies, a crisp salad, or mashed cauliflower for a complete, low-carb meal!