Gluten free chicken parmesan is a comfort food classic, and this version without breadcrumbs has all the flavor of crispy cutlets, aromatic marinara, and melty cheese.
Testing out several breading options led to one winner for the best chicken parmesan without breadcrumbs.
Chicken parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that typically features chicken breasts coated in breadcrumbs, fried, and topped with tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. While the breadcrumb coating provides a crispy texture, you can still make tasty chicken parmesan without using breadcrumbs.
There are many creative alternatives that can be used to coat chicken and provide a similar crunch when making this beloved dish I’ll share 5 of my favorite breadcrumb substitutes to give your chicken parmesan an extra flavor twist
Why Use Breadcrumb Alternatives?
Here are some reasons why you may want to skip the breadcrumbs when preparing chicken parmesan
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You don’t have breadcrumbs on hand. You can use crushed crackers, nuts, or cereal instead. They will work just as well.
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You follow a gluten-free, keto, or low-carb diet. Breadcrumbs contain carbs and gluten that you may want to avoid.
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You want more flavor and texture. With panko, nuts, and cheese, you can add more crunch and taste.
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You want a healthier version. Whole grain or high protein alternatives can increase nutrients.
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You’re looking for a creative twist. Unique coatings like coconut or crushed chips make the dish more exciting.
5 Tasty Chicken Parmesan Coating Ideas
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Panko breadcrumbs – These Japanese-style crumbs are light, crispy, and flatten to create a lovely crunch. Panko contains no egg or oil like some breadcrumbs. Mix in parmesan, garlic, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
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Crushed nuts – Finely ground almonds, pecans, walnuts, or pistachios add great texture and nutty taste. Try grinding them in a food processor for best results. Watch out for nut allergies!
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Crushed corn flakes – Corn flakes offer a lighter, crispier alternative with a hint of sweetness. Crush them up to mimic the crunch of breadcrumbs.
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Shredded cheese – Parmesan, cheddar, or a blend creates delicious cheesy pockets when melted. The cheese also helps the coating adhere.
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Broken crackers—Saltine crackers, breadsticks, or pretzels that have been ground into crumbs can be used instead of breadcrumbs. Pick your favorite flavor!.
Coating and Baking Tips
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To help the coating stick, first dredge moist chicken pieces in flour, then egg, and finally press into your breadcrumb substitute.
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Spray oil on the chicken and baking pan for crisper results. Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until chicken is 165°F.
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For added flavor, mix in dried herbs, lemon zest, chili flakes, or a seasoning blend into your crumbs.
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Top baked chicken with warmed marinara sauce and mozzarella before broiling another 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
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Break up some crackers and grate some Parmesan cheese to add extra crunch and richness.
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Don’t overmix wet ingredients into the crumbs or the coating may get gummy. Just press chicken firmly into dry mixture.
Satisfying Serving Suggestions
Chicken parmesan makes a complete meal but tastes fantastic with a few side dishes too:
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Pasta – Pair with spaghetti, linguine, or zoodles for a filling Italian-style dinner.
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Garlic bread – Crispy, garlicky bread compliments the chicken perfectly.
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Salad – A fresh green salad or Caesar salad balances the richness.
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Veggies – Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus or a side of tomato sauce.
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Wine – Chicken parmesan calls for an Italian white or red wine. Enjoy a glass!
With a variety of crunchy coatings to choose from, you can ditch boring breadcrumbs and make memorable chicken parmesan for any diet or tastebuds. Get creative with nutritious and flavorful ingredients like panko, nuts, corn flakes, or cheese for a crispy crust and extra flavor punch. Your family or dinner guests will be amazed at the tasty breadcrumb-free chicken parmesan you can turn out with these easy tips and substitutions.
So next time this Italian classic is on the menu, explore some of these innovative coating options. Your tastebuds will thank you for the delicious crunch and flavor these alternatives add to chicken parmesan!
How to make BAKED gluten free chicken parmesan
The recipe below makes a more traditional, fried chicken parmesan.
If youre looking for a BAKED version of this recipe, these instructions are for you!
— Prep the chicken cutlets the same. Once breaded, place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
— Set your oven broiler to HIGH (or 500 degrees F) and adjust a rack to the top position.
— Spritz the cutlets on each side with spray olive oil. Put the baking sheet in the oven and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until starting to brown but not burn.
— Switch the oven to bake at 400 degrees F. Follow the rest of the recipe as written.
Prep and bake the chicken parmesan
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Spread half the marinara on the bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish. Add the fried chicken cutlets. Ladle the rest of the marinara overtop. Sprinkle with parmesan and mozzarella.
Finally, bake for 15 minutes.
And the chicken parmesan is done!
Parmesan Chicken Recipes Without Bread Crumbs
FAQ
What can you use instead of breadcrumbs for chicken parmesan?
For chicken parmesan, common breadcrumb substitutes include crushed panko breadcrumbs, crushed crackers (like Ritz or saltines), crushed cornflakes, almond flour, cornmeal, or crushed pretzels.
How to make chicken parmigiana without breadcrumbs?
directionsPreheat oven to 400. Combine parmesan cheese, parsley, basil and oregano in a baggie. Wash each breast with water and put in cheese mixture. Spray 11 x 13 pan wih olive oil cooking spray. Make sure that all of the pieces are covered in cheese. Put each breast in the pan and add the rest of the cheese mixture on top.
What can I coat chicken with instead of breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed cornflakes, crushed crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, or almond flour as substitutes for bread crumbs when coating chicken.
What is the best breading for chicken parmesan?
Add Parmesan to the bread crumbs: Use Panko bread crumbs mixed with a little finely grated Parmesan cheese. When you fry the breaded chicken, the Parmesan will give it an extra crunch and exciting flavor.
Does Parmesan chicken have breadcrumbs?
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken without Breadcrumbs is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and completely gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly! Instead of breadcrumbs, it’s coated in a flavorful Parmesan and almond flour crust, giving it the perfect golden crunch.
What is a good substitute for chicken parmesan?
People love these pork chops instead of chicken Parmesan because they are breaded in parmesan and baked. The pork chops are browned on the stove and then finished in the oven. Each chop is smothered in melted cheese and homemade pasta sauce! You’re going to love this quick and easy comforting dinner idea.
Can you make baked chicken parmesan without breadcrumbs?
You can also make baked chicken parmesan without breadcrumbs! Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place coated chicken fillets on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
Can you substitute egg for breadcrumb?
Usually, eggs are used to hold the breading together and make a crunchy coating that sticks to the chicken. However, for those with egg allergies or those seeking a vegan alternative, finding a suitable substitute is crucial. The key to achieving a golden-brown, flavorful crust without egg lies in selecting the right breadcrumb substitute.
Is almond flour a good substitute for bread crumbs?
Try our porcupine meatballs. Almond flour has a nutty taste and a course texture, which makes it an easy sub for bread crumbs. It’s also gluten-free, so if you have a sensitivity or diet need, this is a great option. “It’s used in a lot of keto recipes as a sub for breadcrumbs,” Xie said, adding that it’ll work as a binder or a topping.
Can you bread chicken parmesan without egg?
Fret not! This comprehensive guide will unveil the secrets of mastering the art of breading chicken parmesan without egg, ensuring a delectable and allergy-friendly dish. Traditionally, egg is used as a binding agent in breading, creating a crispy coating that adheres to the chicken.