If you’re looking for a mouthwatering and healthy snack option, look no further than these delectable keto chicken tenders. Packed with flavor and low in carbs, these tender strips of chicken are the perfect guilt-free indulgence.
Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet or simply looking for a tasty alternative to traditional chicken tenders, this recipe will hit all the right notes. Get ready to satisfy your cravings without compromising on your health goals.
Ingredients
To make delicious keto chicken tenders, you will need the following ingredients:
Chicken breast
Chicken breast is the main ingredient for this recipe. It is lean, tender, and perfect for making crispy chicken tenders.
Almond flour
Almond flour is a great low-carb alternative to regular flour. It adds a nutty flavor and helps create a satisfying crunch.
Parmesan cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory and salty taste to the breading mixture. It adds a nice touch of richness to the chicken tenders.
Eggs
Eggs are used to create a sticky base for the breading mixture. They help the almond flour and Parmesan cheese adhere to the chicken.
Salt and pepper
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the chicken tenders. They enhance the overall taste and bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Garlic powder
Garlic powder adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to the chicken tenders. It gives them a hint of savory and subtle garlic taste.
Paprika
Paprika adds a mild smoky flavor and a vibrant red color to the breading mixture. It enhances the visual appeal of the chicken tenders.
Dried thyme
Dried thyme adds an earthy and herbal flavor to the breading mixture. It complements the other seasonings and adds depth to the overall taste.
Instructions
Now, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making these delicious keto chicken tenders.
1. Prepare the chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Then, prepare the chicken breast by cutting it into strips or tenders. Make sure to remove any excess fat or skin.
2. Make the breading mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine the almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Coat the chicken
Take each chicken tender and dip it into beaten eggs. Make sure it is fully coated in the egg mixture. Then, transfer it to the breading mixture and coat it evenly with the almond flour mixture. Press the breading firmly onto the chicken to ensure good adherence.
4. Bake the chicken tenders
Place the coated chicken tenders onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy.
Tips for Success
To make the best keto chicken tenders, here are some helpful tips:
Choose boneless, skinless chicken breast
Using boneless, skinless chicken breast ensures that you have a lean and tender base for your chicken tenders. It also reduces the amount of fat in the final dish.
Grind your own almond flour
For the best texture and flavor, it is recommended to grind your own almond flour using a food processor. This way, you can control the coarseness and ensure that it is fresh.
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese has a stronger and more distinct flavor compared to pre-packaged shredded cheese. It adds a delightful taste to the breading mixture.
Add your favorite spices for extra flavor
Feel free to experiment with different spices to customize the flavor of your chicken tenders. You can try adding cayenne pepper for some heat or dried basil for a fresh herbal taste.
Serving Suggestions
Keto chicken tenders are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with various dipping sauces and low-carb side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
Dipping sauces
Serve your chicken tenders with keto-friendly sauces like sugar-free barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy mayo. These sauces add an extra layer of flavor and make the chicken tenders even more enjoyable to eat.
Low-carb side dishes
Create a complete keto-friendly meal by pairing your chicken tenders with low-carb side dishes. Some great options include cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
FAQs
Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about keto chicken tenders:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast if you prefer. Keep in mind that chicken thighs have more fat, so the texture and flavor of the chicken tenders may be slightly different.
Can I fry the chicken tenders instead?
While baking is the healthier option, you can also fry the chicken tenders if you prefer a crispier texture. Just make sure to use a keto-friendly oil like avocado oil or coconut oil.
Can I make the breading ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the breading mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. This way, you can save time when making the chicken tenders and have the breading ready to go whenever you want to cook them.
Conclusion
With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can enjoy delicious and keto-friendly chicken tenders right at home. The combination of almond flour, Parmesan cheese, and flavorful spices creates a crispy and satisfying coating, while the chicken remains tender and juicy.
Whether you decide to pair them with a dipping sauce or enjoy them on their own, these keto chicken tenders are sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!
