Introduction
Welcome to a delicious journey into the world of Low Carb Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders! If you’re craving a crunchy, flavorful meal without the guilt of deep-frying, this recipe is your answer. Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly seasoned chicken tenders that are not only crispy on the outside but also juicy and tender on the inside. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, these baked chicken tenders are sure to satisfy your cravings.
What makes this recipe truly special is its ability to deliver all the crunch and flavor of classic fried chicken tenders while keeping the carb count low. By using a combination of almond flour and spices, we create a crispy coating that rivals any fast-food joint’s version. These tenders are perfect for a weeknight dinner, a family-friendly meal, or a party appetizer that won’t derail your healthy eating goals.
Chicken tenders have long been a popular choice for both kids and adults, offering a convenient way to enjoy tender, boneless chicken in a fun finger food format. By baking them instead of frying, we elevate this classic dish into a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on taste or texture. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the best of both worlds – crispy, flavorful chicken tenders without the excess oil and carbs!
Join me as we dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe, from the carefully selected ingredients to the step-by-step instructions that will guide you through creating the perfect batch of Low Carb Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Low Carb Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a standout dish for several reasons. First and foremost, they offer a guilt-free way to enjoy the crunch and flavor of classic fried chicken tenders. By baking them instead of frying, you significantly reduce the amount of unhealthy fats and calories typically associated with deep-fried foods.
Additionally, this recipe is perfect for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, as it swaps out traditional breadcrumbs for almond flour, a low-carb alternative that adds both texture and flavor. The result is a dish that’s not only delicious but also fits seamlessly into a low-carb eating plan.
Furthermore, these chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer a mild seasoning or a spicy kick, you can easily adjust the spices to create a flavor profile that suits your palate. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these crispy tenders that will have your family and friends coming back for more!
So, if you’re looking for a tasty, easy-to-make dish that satisfies your cravings without compromising your health goals, these Low Carb Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a must-try recipe that will soon become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create these delectable Low Carb Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– Chicken breast tenders (boneless, skinless)
– Almond flour
– Parmesan cheese
– Paprika
– Garlic powder
– Onion powder
– Salt and pepper
– Eggs
– Olive oil
Optional ingredient substitutions:
If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, feel free to customize this recipe by using gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of almond flour or swapping out the Parmesan cheese for nutritional yeast. You can also experiment with different spice blends to create a flavor profile that suits your taste buds.
Before you begin cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients prepped and ready to go. This will streamline the cooking process and ensure that your chicken tenders turn out perfectly crispy and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine almond flour, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the dry ingredients.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
4. Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, shaking off any excess, then dredge it in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating to the chicken.
5. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not touching each other.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken tenders to help them brown and crisp up in the oven.
7. Bake the chicken tenders for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Expert Tips for Success
For the crispiest chicken tenders, make sure to preheat your oven adequately before placing the tenders inside. This initial burst of high heat helps to seal in the juices and create a crispy exterior.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the almond flour mixture for an extra flavor boost.
To ensure even cooking, try to cut your chicken tenders into uniform sizes so that they cook at the same rate. This will prevent some pieces from drying out while others are still undercooked.
If you’re short on time, you can prepare the almond flour coating and dip the chicken tenders in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them, saving you precious minutes on busy weeknights.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and customize it to suit your preferences. You can swap out the spices for your favorite seasoning blend or add a touch of grated Parmesan to the almond flour mixture for an extra cheesy flavor.
If you’re not a fan of chicken breast tenders, you can use chicken thighs or even fish fillets for a different twist on this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that your protein is cooked through.
For a dairy-free version, omit the Parmesan cheese and use nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives to achieve a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy content.
If you’re looking to add a crunchy texture to your chicken tenders, try mixing in some crushed pork rinds or crushed almonds with the almond flour coating for an extra crispy finish.
Serving Suggestions
These Low Carb Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are delicious on their own but also pair well with a variety of dipping sauces. Serve them with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy buffalo sauce for an added kick.
For a complete meal, pair the chicken tenders with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb feast that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
If you’re serving these tenders at a party or gathering, consider making a platter with different dipping sauces and garnishes to create a fun and interactive appetizer that will delight your guests.
However you choose to enjoy these crispy baked chicken tenders, they are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table, whether they’re kids or adults looking for a healthier twist on a classic favorite.
FAQs
Q: Can I prepare these chicken tenders in advance and reheat them later?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken tenders ahead of time and reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This is a great time-saving option for meal prep or party planning.
Q: Can I freeze these chicken tenders for later use?
A: Absolutely! Once the chicken tenders are baked and cooled, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply bake them in a 375°F (190°C) oven until heated through.
Q: How can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?
A: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free almond flour and ensure that all other ingredients, including the spices, are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a flavorful and crispy dish without any gluten-containing ingredients.
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken pieces instead of chicken tenders?
A: While this recipe is tailored for boneless, skinless chicken tenders, you can certainly use bone-in chicken pieces like drumsticks or thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked through.
Final Thoughts
As you embark on your culinary adventure with Low Carb Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders, remember that this recipe is not just about creating a delicious meal—it’s about enjoying a healthier, guilt-free version of a beloved classic. By choosing to bake instead of fry, you’re making a conscious decision to prioritize your health without sacrificing flavor or texture.
So, whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, these chicken tenders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for more. With the right balance of spices, crunch, and juiciness, these baked chicken tenders are bound to become a regular feature on your menu rotation.
So, preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders fill your kitchen. It’s time to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Happy cooking!
Low Carb Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Enjoy crunchy, flavorful chicken tenders without the guilt of deep-frying with this low-carb baked recipe. These crispy tenders are made with almond flour and spices, resulting in a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken that is both juicy and tender on the inside.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast tenders (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow bowl, combine almond flour, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
- Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, then dredge in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to coat.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Let the chicken tenders rest before serving.
Nutrition Facts
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