Cooking often has a magical way of turning an ordinary day into something special. One dish that can truly elevate your family meal is crispy almond crusted baked chicken tenders. This recipe brings together comfort food vibes with a healthy twist, making it an ideal choice for everyone, including our beloved senior cooks looking for something delightful yet uncomplicated.
At the heart of this dish, you’ll find tender chicken tenders expertly surrounded by a crispy almond and Parmesan coating. The blend of flavors from garlic powder and onion powder adds a savory depth, while the almond flour keeps it gluten-free and adds a nutty taste that pairs beautifully with the chicken. This dish is all about simplicity without sacrificing flavor.
With just seven straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. All it takes is preheating the oven, mixing your dry ingredients, preparing the egg wash, and then coating the chicken. After a quick bake, your family will be eagerly awaiting a golden-brown dish that makes your kitchen smell heavenly.
These chicken tenders are perfect for those chilly nights when comfort food is a must. They also shine at potlucks and family gatherings, sure to be a hit with both young and old alike. Let’s make something everyone can enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Almond Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders
- Quick Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and won’t take much time.
- Healthy Ingredients: Using almond flour and chicken tenders makes for a nutritious option.
- Great for All Ages: Perfectly suitable for both kids and seniors.
- Versatile Dish: These tenders can be enjoyed as a main course or as a snack.
- Delicious Flavor: The nutty almonds mixed with cheese makes each bite a delight.
Chicken Tips
When it comes to making the perfect chicken tenders, selecting the right cut is essential. Aim for high-quality chicken tenders, ideally from a trusted butcher or brand. Fresh chicken will yield the best texture and flavor. If you opt for frozen tenders, ensure they’re fully thawed before coating them to prevent uneven cooking. Always check for freshness by looking at the color and smell, ensuring you choose tenders that are pink and free of any strange odor.
Options for Substitutions
- Chicken Breast: Substitute chicken tenders with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips.
- Gluten-Free Options: Use crushed gluten-free rice or corn cereal instead of almond flour for a different crunch.
- Different Cheese: Try using shredded mozzarella or cheddar as a substitute for Parmesan cheese.
- Egg Alternatives: For a vegan option, replace eggs with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
- Flavor Boosters: Add dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the coating for additional flavor.
- Olive Oil Swap: Avocado oil can be a substitute for olive oil if you prefer its flavor or health benefits.
Watch Out for These Mistakes
One common mistake when making these chicken tenders is overcooking. Since ovens can vary, it’s important to monitor the chicken closely; start checking for doneness at 15 minutes. Ensure they are cooked through and golden brown, but not dried out.
Another pitfall is not allowing the coating to adhere properly. Make sure to press the almond flour mixture firmly onto the chicken after dipping it in the eggs. This step ensures a delightful crunch when baked.
Seasoning is also key; underseasoning can make even the best chicken tenders taste bland. Be sure to include all the suggested spices, as they enhance flavor dramatically. Finally, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this will steam the chicken rather than crisp it up.
What to Serve With Crispy Almond Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders?
These crispy chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them alongside a vibrant salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast. Alternatively, roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes complement the dish beautifully. For a more casual touch, a side of sweet potato fries or a classic coleslaw are also excellent choices, adding a delightful crunch to your meal.
Storage Instructions
Store: For leftovers, keep the chicken tenders in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freeze: You can freeze the tenders for up to 2 months. Ensure they are placed in freezer-safe bags or containers.
Reheat: To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, though this may make them less crispy.
Recipe Info
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: Approximately 4 servings, depending on portion size.
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 700-800
- Protein: 70-80g
- Fat: 40-50g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving that golden crisp on the chicken. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Coating
In a medium bowl, combine the almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash
In another bowl, crack the two large eggs and beat them until combined. This will be the glue that helps the coating stick to the chicken.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Take each chicken tender, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then coat it thoroughly in the almond flour mixture, pressing down gently to make sure it adheres well.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place each coated chicken tender on the prepared baking sheet. Once all are arranged, drizzle them with olive oil for added flavor and to help achieve a crispy texture during baking.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. They should be golden brown and cooked through before removing them.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, serve the chicken tenders hot alongside your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your deliciously crispy dinner with family!
In conclusion, this crispy almond crusted baked chicken tender recipe is not only easy to make but also a delightful meal for any occasion. The flavorful coating combined with tender chicken makes for a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite. I encourage you to try this recipe, share your thoughts, and explore more hearty meals on the blog. Happy cooking!
Crispy Almond Crusted Baked Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, and stir well.
- In another bowl, crack the two large eggs and beat them until combined.
- Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently.
- Place each coated chicken tender on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
