These Baked Almond-Crusted Chicken Tenders have a beautifully golden-brown exterior with a satisfying crunch, while the tender chicken inside remains juicy and flavorful. The almond flour coating gives them a slightly nutty flavor that complements the savory spices, creating a perfect balance of taste and texture.
This dish is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner, prepping it for the week, or adding it to a salad or wrap, these chicken tenders are sure to impress. The combination of crispy coating and tender chicken makes them the ultimate comfort food without all the guilt.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb chicken tenders
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1 cup almond flour
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1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 large egg
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
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In a shallow bowl, combine the almond flour, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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In another bowl, whisk the egg until well beaten.
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Dip each chicken tender into the egg, then dredge it in the almond flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
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Place the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the tenders.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Versatility of Almond-Crusted Chicken
One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. Almond flour, the primary ingredient for the breading, is an excellent substitute for traditional breadcrumbs, making this dish a great choice for anyone following a gluten-free diet. Almond flour is made from finely ground almonds, which provide a subtle sweetness and a crunchier texture compared to regular bread crumbs. This swap not only ensures that the dish is gluten-free, but also enhances the flavor and nutritional profile, as almond flour is a good source of protein and healthy fats.
The almond crusted chicken tenders are easy to make and are perfect for both kids and adults. If you’re preparing the tenders for younger children, you can use them as a healthier alternative to the typical chicken nuggets, and they are likely to be just as popular, if not more so, thanks to their crispy texture and nutty flavor. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients makes this dish a quick option for busy nights when you want something easy yet delicious.
How to Get the Perfect Almond-Crusted Coating
To achieve the best almond-crusted chicken, it’s essential to follow the breading process carefully. While it might seem a bit like frying, you’re actually baking the chicken tenders, which is a healthier option. The first step in breading the chicken tenders is to pat them dry, ensuring that any moisture is removed. This will allow the almond flour and egg wash to adhere better, creating a uniform coating.
The three-dish breading method works wonderfully for this recipe. The first dish should contain the almond flour mixed with salt, pepper, and optional seasonings like paprika or Italian seasoning. The second dish holds the egg wash, and the third dish contains the chopped almonds that will form the final crust. The key to making sure the tenders are well-coated is to press them firmly into the almond mixture, ensuring every part of the chicken is covered. This step will give you that satisfying, crispy texture when baked.
Why Bake Instead of Fry?
Baking these almond-crusted chicken tenders instead of frying them is not only a healthier option, but it also helps to keep the almond crust intact. Frying tends to be a more oily method, which can cause the coating to become greasy and may compromise the texture. When you bake the chicken, the high heat helps to seal in the moisture while crisping up the almond coating, giving you a healthier version of fried chicken without sacrificing any flavor.
Additionally, baking these tenders in the oven ensures that the almonds used in the crust retain their roasted flavor, which enhances the overall taste of the dish. This method is also much easier when it comes to cleanup, as it doesn’t require dealing with hot oil splatters. If you’re looking to keep the dish as healthy as possible, baking is the clear winner.
Customizing the Recipe
While this recipe is already incredibly versatile, there are several ways to make it your own. For instance, if you want to elevate the flavor profile, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning to the almond mixture. This will give the tenders an extra savory kick and transform them into an adult-friendly dish that pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or your favorite dipping sauce.
You can also experiment with different herbs and spices in the breading mixture to suit your taste. Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can add more complexity to the flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even add some grated lemon zest to the almond mixture for a zesty twist.
Serving Suggestions
Baked almond-crusted chicken tenders can be served in a variety of ways. One of the simplest and most satisfying ways to serve them is on a hearty salad. The crispiness of the tenders pairs wonderfully with a fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and a tangy vinaigrette or Italian dressing. Alternatively, you could serve them with a side of roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a small serving of pasta like orzo. For a more indulgent option, French fries make a fantastic side dish, and you can even sneak in a vegetable like steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for extra nutrients.
For those who prefer dipping sauces, these chicken tenders are the perfect vehicle for a variety of options. You could go classic with ketchup or honey mustard, or get creative with a tangy barbecue sauce, ranch, or a creamy garlic aioli.
Using Different Cuts of Chicken
While this recipe calls for chicken tenders, it’s easy to substitute other cuts of chicken if you prefer. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chicken legs, or even thighs can all be used in place of tenders. Keep in mind that if you use larger pieces of chicken, such as breasts, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. It’s always a good idea to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Chicken breasts should reach 160°F, and dark meat, such as thighs, should reach 165°F.
Conclusion
Baked almond-crusted chicken tenders are a healthier, gluten-free alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders and a fantastic option for those looking for a quick and easy meal. The almond coating adds both flavor and crunch, creating a satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re serving them as part of a salad, with pasta, or alongside a delicious dipping sauce, these tenders are a versatile protein option that is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it can also be customized with your favorite flavors, making it a meal that will never get boring. Best of all, by baking rather than frying, you can enjoy all the crispy goodness of fried chicken with a fraction of the fat. So, the next time you’re craving chicken tenders, give this baked almond-crusted version a try – you won’t regret it!