Almond Crusted Chicken Tenders Crispy and Delicious Meal
Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? Almond Crusted Chicken Tenders offer a crunchy, tasty twist that makes eaters of all ages smile. With a blend of almond flour and Parmesan, you get a savory treat that’s both healthy and delicious. Whether you serve them with a zesty dip or alongside fresh veggies, these tenders will surely impress. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this meal!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy Option: This almond crusted chicken tender recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional breaded chicken, providing a gluten-free option that’s packed with protein.
- Easy to Prepare: The straightforward steps make this recipe quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights or a simple family dinner.
- Crispy Texture: The almond flour and Parmesan create a deliciously crispy coating that adds great flavor and crunch to the tender chicken.
- Versatile Serving: These chicken tenders can be served with a variety of dips or sides, making them a versatile dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Almond Crusted Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
The chicken tenderloins are the star of this dish. They are juicy and cook quickly. Almond flour gives a nice crunch. Mixing it with Parmesan adds flavor and richness. The spices like garlic powder and onion powder enhance the taste. Smoked paprika gives a hint of warmth. Salt and pepper add balance.
Additional Ingredients for Serving
- Optional dipping sauces (e.g., honey mustard, yogurt-based dip)
- Suggested side dishes (e.g., steamed vegetables, salad)
Dipping sauces make this meal fun. Honey mustard adds sweetness, while a yogurt dip is cool and creamy. For sides, steamed vegetables add color and nutrition. A fresh salad keeps it light and crunchy. Together, they make a well-rounded meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lightly grease the sheet with olive oil spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Mix these dry ingredients well.
- In another bowl, whisk together:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- Make sure it’s blended well.
Coating the Chicken
- Take each chicken tenderloin and dip it into the egg mixture.
- Let any extra egg drip off.
- Next, dredge the chicken in the almond flour mix.
- Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
- If you want, lightly spray the tops with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
Baking Instructions
- Bake the chicken tenders for 15-20 minutes.
- Flip them halfway through baking.
- Check if they are done when the coating is golden brown.
- The chicken should be cooked through.
- Let the tenders rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken and high-quality almond flour to enhance the flavor and texture of your tenders.
- Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning in the almond flour mixture to suit your taste. Adding herbs like thyme or oregano can elevate the dish.
- Make It Crispy: For an extra crispy coating, consider double-dipping the chicken tenders in the egg mixture and almond flour before baking.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Pair these tenders with a variety of dipping sauces like spicy aioli, ranch, or barbecue for a fun and flavorful meal.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Breading Technique
To get an even coat on your chicken tenders, follow these steps:
- Use dry hands: Moisture can make the breading clump.
- Press firmly: When coating, press the almond mix onto the chicken. This helps it stick.
- Double dip: For a thicker crust, dip in egg, then in the almond mix again.
To keep the coating crispy, consider these tips:
- Bake on parchment: This prevents sticking and helps air circulate.
- Spray lightly: A quick spray of oil on top before baking adds crispiness.
- Avoid overcrowding: Space the tenders apart on the sheet for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
For a delicious meal, pair your chicken tenders with tasty sides. Recommended condiments include:
- Honey mustard
- Yogurt-based dip
- Barbecue sauce
For sides, try:
- Steamed vegetables
- A fresh salad
- Sweet potato fries
For presentation, arrange the tenders on a platter. Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To prevent sogginess in the crust, always:
- Ensure chicken is dry: Pat the tenders with a paper towel before breading.
- Don’t skip the egg wash: This helps the coating adhere and stay crispy.
For timing and temperature, keep these in mind:
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for best results.
- Flip halfway: This ensures both sides get golden brown.
- Check for doneness: Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) inside.
Variations
Flavor Variations
To spice up your almond crusted chicken tenders, consider adding herbs or spices to the almond flour mix. Try dried oregano, thyme, or even cayenne pepper for a kick. These additions can change the taste and make it exciting.
You can also swap the Parmesan cheese for other types. Grated cheddar or even a dairy-free cheese can add new flavors to your dish. Experiment to find your favorite combo!
Cooking Method Variations
You have options for cooking these chicken tenders. Air frying gives a nice crisp without much oil. Set your air fryer to 400°F and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Flip halfway for even cooking.
If you prefer a smoky flavor, grilling is great. Simply marinate the chicken tenders before grilling. This method adds a delicious char and depth to the flavor.
Dietary Modifications
For gluten-free options, you can replace almond flour with a gluten-free blend. This keeps the dish safe for those with gluten allergies.
If you’re looking for vegan options, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Use the same almond flour mix to coat. For the egg wash, mix ground flaxseed with water as a binder. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty meal!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Chicken Tenders
To keep your almond crusted chicken tenders fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure the chicken tenders cool to room temperature before sealing. This helps avoid moisture buildup, which can make them soggy.
You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each tender in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating chicken tenders without losing their crunch is key. Here are some methods to try:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tenders on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This helps restore their crispiness.
- Microwave Method: If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave. Place the tenders on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, but be aware they may lose some crunch.
- Air Fryer Method: This is my favorite way to reheat! Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Heat the tenders for about 5-7 minutes. They will come out hot and crispy!
No matter your choice, be sure to check the internal temperature. They should reach 165°F (74°C) before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQs
How long do almond crusted chicken tenders last in the fridge?
Almond crusted chicken tenders stay fresh in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Store them in an airtight container. This keeps them tasting great and safe to eat. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Can I make almond crusted chicken tenders in advance?
Yes, you can prepare almond crusted chicken tenders ahead of time. To do this, coat the chicken and place it on the baking sheet. Cover the sheet with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to bake, take them out and cook as usual.
What are some common allergens in this recipe?
This recipe contains several common allergens. These include chicken, almonds, and eggs. Almond flour can be a problem for those with nut allergies. Parmesan cheese may cause reactions in some people who are lactose intolerant. Always check for allergies before serving.
This blog post covered how to make delicious almond crusted chicken tenders. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. I also shared fun ways to customize this dish and how to store leftovers.
This dish is tasty and easy to prep, making it great for meals. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and cooking methods to find your favorite. You’ll love serving these chicken tenders to family or friends, and they’ll be asking for more.
Almond Crusted Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
1 lb chicken tenderloins
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons water
Olive oil spray or cooking oil for greasing
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil spray.
In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until well blended.
Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge in the almond flour mixture. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
Place the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet. If desired, lightly spray the tops with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let the chicken tenders rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4
– Presentation Tips: Arrange the chicken tenders on a platter with a side of dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or a yogurt-based dip. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Almond Crusted Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 spray Olive oil spray or cooking oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until well blended.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge in the almond flour mixture. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
- Place the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet. If desired, lightly spray the tops with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken tenders rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Arrange the chicken tenders on a platter with a side of dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or a yogurt-based dip. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
![To make this easy chicken fried rice, gather these key ingredients: - 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old for best texture) - 1 cup cooked chicken, diced - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - 2 eggs, lightly beaten - 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn) - 3 green onions, sliced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - Salt and pepper to taste These ingredients blend perfectly to create a tasty meal. Day-old rice gives the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky. You can add personal touches to your chicken fried rice with these options: - Bell peppers for crunch - Broccoli for added nutrition - Shrimp or tofu for different proteins - Ginger for extra flavor - Chili flakes for heat Feel free to mix and match based on what you love. This dish is perfect for using up leftovers. If you have allergies, consider these swaps: - Use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free needs. - Replace eggs with scrambled tofu for a vegan option. - Swap the vegetable oil for olive oil or avocado oil. - Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a soy-free option. These substitutions help you enjoy the dish safely. Always check labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs. For the full recipe, check our detailed guide. To make this easy chicken fried rice, first gather your ingredients. You will need: - 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old for best texture) - 1 cup cooked chicken, diced - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil - 2 eggs, lightly beaten - 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn) - 3 green onions, sliced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - Salt and pepper to taste Make sure your rice is cold. This makes it easier to fry. Diced chicken should be ready to go. Slice your green onions and mince the garlic. These steps save time during cooking. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. This adds great flavor to your dish. Next, push the garlic to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked. Then mix them with the garlic. Now, add the diced chicken and mixed vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes. This allows everything to heat through and blend. Add the cooked rice next. Break up any clumps as you add it to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the other ingredients. Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes. This helps the rice absorb all the tasty flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Then add the sliced green onions, saving some for garnish. Toss everything together until it is evenly mixed and heated through. For a great presentation, serve the fried rice in a large bowl. Garnish with the remaining green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil. This adds a nice touch to your dish. Enjoy your meal with chopsticks for an authentic experience. You can find the full recipe above for a detailed guide. For fried rice, use day-old rice. It dries out a bit in the fridge. This helps it fry better. Fresh rice can be too sticky. If you don’t have day-old rice, cook some and spread it on a tray to cool. This will help it dry. To boost flavors, use good soy sauce. Dark soy sauce gives a richer taste. Add sesame oil for a nice nutty flavor. You can also toss in some ginger or chili paste. Fresh herbs like cilantro add a fresh touch. A squeeze of lime brightens everything up too. Don’t overcrowd the pan. This makes food steam instead of fry. Always heat your skillet well before adding ingredients. Avoid using too much liquid; it can make the rice soggy. Lastly, don’t skip the garlic. It brings great flavor but should be cooked just right, not burnt. {{image_2}} You can easily make chicken fried rice vegetarian or vegan. Instead of chicken, use tofu or tempeh. Both add great texture and protein. For a vegan option, skip the eggs and use an egg substitute, like silken tofu. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for more flavor. Chicken is a favorite, but you can try other proteins too. Shrimp, beef, or pork all work well. For a fun twist, use leftover rotisserie chicken for quick prep. If you like a spicy kick, add diced sausage. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the protein you choose. Enhancing flavor is key to great fried rice. Soy sauce is essential, but you can add more. Try hoisin sauce or oyster sauce for depth. For a kick, add chili paste or sriracha. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can brighten the dish. Finally, sesame seeds give a nice crunch. For a full guide on these variations, check out the Full Recipe. To store your leftover chicken fried rice, place it in an airtight container. Make sure the rice cools to room temperature first. This helps to keep it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. You can also divide it into smaller portions for easy access. If you want to save it longer, freezing works great. Use a freezer-safe bag or container. Press out as much air as you can before sealing. Chicken fried rice can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water to help steam it and keep it moist. Chicken fried rice does not last forever. In the fridge, it stays good for about three days. After that, it may spoil. If you notice any off smells or colors, toss it. Always check before eating. Proper storage helps keep your meals tasty and safe! Check the [Full Recipe] for more tips on making this dish. Yes, leftover rice is perfect for chicken fried rice. Day-old rice has less moisture. This helps it fry better and gives a nice texture. Fresh rice can be too sticky and clump together. If you have leftover rice, use it! To reduce oil, use less vegetable oil. You can also add more veggies. They will add moisture and flavor without extra oil. Another tip is to cook over high heat. This helps to fry the rice quickly and keeps it from getting greasy. Great veggies for this dish include: - Carrots - Peas - Corn - Bell peppers - Broccoli These add color and crunch. You can mix and match based on what you have. Yes, you can make chicken fried rice gluten-free. Just use gluten-free soy sauce. There are many brands available now. You can also use coconut aminos as a tasty alternative. Yes, using frozen vegetables is a smart choice! They are easy and save time. Just add them straight to the pan. They will heat up quickly and keep their nutrients. Using frozen veggies also makes this dish even faster to prepare. For the full recipe, check the recipe section. Easy chicken fried rice combines simple ingredients and cooking steps. You can customize your dish with optional flavors or different proteins. I shared tips to boost taste and avoid common mistakes. Storage advice ensures you can enjoy leftovers safely. Remember, you can always use leftover rice and frozen veggies for convenience. Experiment with variations to find your favorite. This dish is fun and easy to make, perfect for any meal!](https://dailydishlab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/7a871d5a-324a-485e-b6c8-e68637190de3-768x768.webp)
