Eggplant Chicken Keto: A Low-Carb Delight

A symphony of flavors, where Mediterranean charm meets Italian elegance.

Imagine a dish that marries the tender, juicy goodness of chicken with the earthy, smoky allure of eggplant. A dish that pays homage to the vibrant culinary traditions of the Mediterranean and Italy, all while embracing the principles of the ketogenic diet. This is Eggplant Parmesan Chicken, a keto-friendly masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body.

Ingredients:

Image Source: lexiscleankitchen.com

1 large eggplant, sliced into rounds

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1/2 cup almond flour

1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese

2 large eggs, beaten

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup marinara sauce, sugar-free and low-carb

1 tablespoon olive oil

Preparation Process:

1. Prep the Eggplant:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Arrange eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.

Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

In a shallow dish, whisk together the beaten eggs, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and basil.

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Dredge the coated chicken in the almond flour mixture, pressing to adhere.

3. Assemble and Bake:

In a greased baking dish, layer the roasted eggplant slices, followed by the breaded chicken breasts.

Pour the sugar-free marinara sauce over the chicken and eggplant.

Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is golden brown.

Total Time Required: Approximately 1 hour

Serving Ideas:

Classic Presentation: Serve the Eggplant Parmesan Chicken hot, topped with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Low-Carb Side Dish: Pair it with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a green salad dressed with a lemon-tahini vinaigrette.

Keto-Friendly Dessert: Indulge in a sugar-free, low-carb dessert like a dark chocolate mousse or a berry parfait.

A Fusion of Flavors

This dish is a testament to the power of culinary fusion. It draws inspiration from the rich traditions of Mediterranean cuisine, with its emphasis on fresh, flavorful ingredients and healthy fats. It also pays homage to the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine, particularly the beloved eggplant Parmesan. By adapting these classic dishes to a keto-friendly framework, we’ve created a meal that is both delicious and nourishing.