Craving pizza but trying to keep things keto? This keto chicken parmesan pizza recipe is a delicious and innovative way to enjoy a savory, protein-packed meal that the whole family will love! By replacing the traditional pizza crust with a flavorful ground chicken base, you significantly reduce the carb content while boosting the protein. If you're on a high-protein kick, like many are, this recipe offers a creative way to incorporate more protein into your meals.
Why Chicken Crust Pizza?
Chicken Parmesan is a favorite for those seeking flavorful and protein-rich dishes that are quick to prepare. There are many variations, from keto chicken parmesan casserole to keto air fryer chicken parmesan, and this chicken crust pizza is an excellent addition to the list.
Using chicken as a pizza crust is a fantastic keto-friendly alternative. Meats are naturally carb-free, and when seasoned, they become incredibly flavorful. This makes ground chicken an ideal substitute for a traditional pizza crust.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan, divided
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup freshly shredded mozzarella
- Red pepper flakes, for serving (optional)
- Basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the ground chicken, ½ cup of Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Form the Chicken Crust: Spray the prepared baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Transfer the chicken mixture onto the sheet and flatten it into an 8-inch circle. Form the chicken mixture into a large round crust, about ½” thick.
- Bake the Crust: Bake in the preheated oven until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, approximately 20 to 22 minutes. The safe internal temperature for chicken is at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Add Toppings: Remove from the oven and heat broiler. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the chicken crust, leaving a small border around the circumference of the pizza. Top with freshly shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Broil to Melt Cheese: Broil until the cheese is melty and bubbly, about 3 to 4 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the pizza is done, remove it from the oven. Garnish with the remaining grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Add red pepper flakes for an extra kick, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Keto Chicken Crust Pizza
- Achieving Extra Color: If your chicken crust isn't getting enough color during baking, try broiling it for 3 to 5 minutes to get it extra golden and crispy.
- Chicken Selection: Ground chicken thighs are preferable due to their higher fat content, which adds flavor and is beneficial for those following a ketogenic diet. Ground chicken breast works as well, but the thighs add more flavor.
- Grinding Your Own Chicken: If you can't find ground chicken at your local grocery store, you can easily make your own by throwing boneless, raw chicken breasts or thighs into a food processor with your seasonings. Grind until you achieve the desired consistency. Canned chicken also works.
- Marinara Sauce Selection: When choosing a marinara sauce, opt for a low-carb option like Rao's Homemade. Many store-bought sauces are loaded with sugar, which can hinder your low-carb lifestyle. Always check the labels to ensure the sauce fits your dietary plan. Rao's Homemade is low in carbs (4g net carbs per ½ cup).
- Texture: The chicken crust will be sturdy and firm, but not exactly crispy like a traditional pizza crust. Remember, the base is primarily chicken. You should be able to hold a slice, but some may prefer to use a fork.
- Versatile Toppings: This recipe makes a cheese pizza, but feel free to top it with your favorite pizza toppings!
Texture of the Keto Chicken Parmesan Pizza
When cooked, the chicken parm pizza will have a sturdy and firm texture, though it won't be crispy like a traditional bread crust. Since the base is made of chicken, it won't have a bread-like consistency. You can typically hold a slice in your hand, but using a fork is also an option.
Serving and Enjoying
This keto chicken parmesan pizza is best served warm, with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat. The fresh basil adds a touch of freshness that complements the savory flavors of the chicken, marinara, and cheese.
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
Variations and Additions
Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Some great additions include:
- Cooked vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions
- Pepperoni or other cured meats
- Different types of cheese, such as provolone or mozzarella balls
Is Chicken Crust Pizza Keto-Friendly?
Yes, this Chicken Crust Pizza is keto-friendly. It's also a great alternative to takeout because you control everything that goes in!
Nutrition Information
Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown for this low carb chicken crust pizza, calculated per ⅙ of the pizza: (Note: Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.)
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto