Lo-Cal Parmesan Chicken
Light and flavorful Parmesan chicken with a crispy coating, perfect for a healthy dinner option that pairs well with salads or vegetables. Suitable for those seeking low-calorie, protein-rich meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine buttermilk and Parmesan cheese; set aside.
- Sprinkle chicken breasts with flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dip floured chicken breasts into the buttermilk cheese mixture, coating both sides and using the entire mixture.
- Dredge the coated chicken breasts in dried bread crumbs.
- In a 9-inch skillet, heat oil over medium heat.
- Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook, turning once, until browned on both sides.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, you can substitute the buttermilk with low-fat yogurt mixed with water to achieve a similar consistency. If you're out of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile. You can also add some Italian herbs to the bread crumbs for extra flavor. This dish pairs excellently with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lo-Cal Parmesan Chicken with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables or whole grain rice, making it a versatile dish for any meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside the Basic Chicken Salad for a delicious combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, ensuring it stays crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lo-Cal Parmesan Chicken contains roughly 549 calories, with 38g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (76% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
While skin-on chicken can be used, it may not yield the same low-calorie result. The skin adds extra fat and calories, so for a healthier version, it’s best to stick with skinless chicken breasts as the recipe suggests.
What can I substitute for dried bread crumbs?
You can use crushed whole grain crackers or oats as a gluten-free alternative to dried bread crumbs. Alternatively, panko breadcrumbs can provide an extra crunch if you prefer a different texture.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the buttermilk mixture. You can also season the flour with cayenne pepper for an added kick that complements the flavors of the chicken.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).