As someone who is gluten free and allergic to almonds it is so important to me to provide easy gluten free recipes without nuts. I am celiac, lactose intolerant and allergic to almonds, it is so important that all my recipes cater to people with multiple dietary restrictions and/or food allergies! This comfort food recipe was something I was definately missing after going gluten free and dairy free!
This Gluten free Chicken parm is perfect for christmas or just as a traditional classic family favorite! This recipe uses egg whites and a combination of gluten-free breadcrumbs and pork rind panko for a crispy coating, topped with dairy-free marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. This chicken parmesan recipe is served over spaghetti squash for a healthy and satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy, just like my gluten free lazy chicken parm casserole or my gluten free dairy free chicken parm skillet.
This gluten-free chicken parmesan is an easy dinner that is gluten free, low carb and nut free. It can be made low fat and dairy free.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- This Gluten free Chicken parm recipe is dipped in an egg white egg mixture instead of full eggs to cut out saturdated fats.
- This easy chicken parm recipe uses dairy-free or vegan cheese instead of full fat dairy cheese to make it a dairy free dinner option.
- Simple Ingredients: The parmesan chicken recipe uses readily available ingredients that require minimal prep. No crazy marinades or hard-to-find spices are needed.
- Easy Cleanup: Using only one pan for frying and baking minimizes dishes to wash.
- Flexible Substitutions: The easy gluten free chicken parm recipe offers alternatives for various preferences – pork rind panko for extra crunch, store-bought cheese shreds for convenience, vegan options for plant-based diets.
- Skip Panning the Squash: If using pre-shredded squash, simply add it directly to the baking sheet with the chicken for the final baking step, eliminating the need for a separate pan for pre-cooking.
- Foil for Easy Cleaning: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or foil before adding the piece of chicken.
- Quick Cooking Time: The entire gluten free chicken parmesan takes 30 minutes or less, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Double the Batch: Easily double the easy gluten free chicken parm recipe and prepare extra portions for meal prep lunches or quick dinners later in the week. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
INGREDIENTS & SUBSTITUTIONS
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts. Easy to find and prep.
Egg whites: Binds the coating. Can use whole eggs if needed.
gluten free free bread crumbs: Gluten-free for those with gluten sensitivity. Use all gluten-free or replace pork rinds with more breadcrumbs. You can also use coconut flour, gluten-free flour, almond meal or gluten free panko breadcrumbs in place. If your breadcrumbs arent seasoned be sure to add onion powder, fresh basil, parmesan cheese and garlic.
Pork rind panko: Adds crunch. Skip for less fat or use all breadcrumbs.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper. Simple flavor boost.
Marinara sauce: Pick your favorite dairy-free zesty tomato sauce.
Mozzarella cheese: Dairy-free or low-fat options available. Use vegan cheese for vegan gluten free chicken parm recipe.
TASTE & TEXTURE
This easy gluten free chicken parm recipe packs a satisfying punch. The tender chicken is coated with a crispy chicken coating thanks to the breadcrumbs and pork rinds (if you use them). Tangy marinara sauce adds flavor. The melty cheese topping melts for gooey goodness. Spaghetti squash base is light and fluffy.
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the spaghetti squash with a fork a few times and microwave for 10-15 minutes, or until tender. Once cool enough to handle, cut in half, scoop out the seeds, and shred the flesh with a fork.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg whites. In another bowl, combine the gluten-free breadcrumbs, pork rind panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the egg whites, then coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press firmly to ensure good adhesion.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.(You can also air fry it on 390 for approx 10-15 minutes.)
- Transfer the breaded chicken cutlet to a baking dish. Top with dairy-free marinara sauce and sprinkle with dairy-free mozzarella cheese. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.(You can also continue to air fry by leaving the chicken cutlets in the air fryer, top with dairy-free marinara sauce and sprinkle with dairy-free mozzarella cheese and air fry for another 5 minutes.)
- Serve the chicken parmesan over the prepared spaghetti squash and enjoy!
EXPERT TIPS & TRICKS
- For a thicker breading, dip the chicken in the egg whites twice before coating in the breadcrumb mixture.
- If you don’t have pork rind panko breadcrumbs, you can use all gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- You can also use store-bought dairy-free mozzarella cheese shreds.
- For a vegan gluten free chicken parm recipe, use vegan mozzarella cheese and a vegan marinara sauce and use breaded eggplant or breaded cauliflower instead!
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Use zucchini noodles to save time insteaed of roasting spaghetti squash.
- You can also use your favorite gluten-free pasta if you don’t need this to be low carb.
- Option to use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Top the easy gluten free chicken parm with your favorite toppings such as pecorino romano, fresh parsley or goat milk cheese.
HOW TO SERVE & STORE
Plate your easy gluten free chicken parm directly on the spaghetti squash or on a separate plate with the squash alongside. Enjoy warm and fresh!
Leftovers? Cover the easy gluten free chicken parm with plastic wrap or store airtight in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze individual portions for longer storage.
To reheat, defrost frozen portions first. Pop leftovers in a preheated oven (375°F) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving works too, but watch closely to avoid drying out.
For meal prep, assemble individual gluten free chicken parm portions on baking sheets (including sauce and cheese) after cooking the chicken. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. Pop directly in the oven (375°F) for 15-20 minutes when needed, saving you precious weeknight time!
Easy Gluten free Chicken parm recipe (dairy free option)
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup egg whites
- 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup pork rind panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup dairy-free marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup dairy-free mozzarella cheese shredded (or low-fat mozzarella)
- 1 spaghetti squash
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the spaghetti squash with a fork a few times and microwave for 10-15 minutes, or until tender. Once cool enough to handle, cut in half, scoop out the seeds, and shred the flesh with a fork.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg whites. In another bowl, combine the gluten-free breadcrumbs, pork rind panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the egg whites, then coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press firmly to ensure good adhesion.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. (You can also air fry it on 390 for approx 10-15 minutes.)
- Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish. Top with dairy-free marinara sauce and sprinkle with dairy-free mozzarella cheese. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. (You can also continue to air fry by leaving the chicken cutlets in the air fryer, top with dairy-free marinara sauce and sprinkle with dairy-free mozzarella cheese and air fry for another 5 minutes.)
- Serve the chicken parmesan over the prepared spaghetti squash and enjoy!
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