If you are looking for a delicious, guilt-free way to enjoy crispy chicken tenders, the Healthy Almond Flour Chicken Tenders Baked Recipe is absolutely a must-try. This recipe transforms tender chicken strips into a crunchy, flavorful dish using wholesome almond flour and aromatic spices, all baked to perfection without deep frying. It’s a fantastic alternative to traditional breaded chicken, offering a nutty, satisfying crust that’s both gluten-free and packed with texture. Whether you’re meal prepping or just craving a comforting classic, this recipe brings simple ingredients together in a surprisingly delightful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Healthy Almond Flour Chicken Tenders Baked Recipe uses straightforward, everyday ingredients that are easy to find but essential to its success. Each ingredient plays a special role, from adding crunch, flavor, to just the right hint of seasoning to elevate the chicken tenders to crave-worthy status.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the perfect binder to make sure the coating sticks to the chicken for even crispiness.
- 3/4 cup almond flour: Provides a light, nutty crust that’s a healthier alternative to breadcrumbs.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes: Adds an amazing crunchy texture and subtle natural sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings warmth and smokiness that deepens the flavor of the coating.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a savory punch that naturally enhances the chicken’s taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a fresh herbal note and lovely specks of green for visual appeal.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Helps to balance and elevate all of the other flavors.
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders: The star of the dish; tender and juicy chicken that cooks perfectly under the coating. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips if preferred.
How to Make Healthy Almond Flour Chicken Tenders Baked Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start off by preheating your oven to 390 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a non-stick cooking spray to ensure the tenders don’t stick. Getting this step right will help the tenders bake evenly and develop that irresistible golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients Separately
In one shallow bowl, whisk the egg until it’s smooth and consistent. In a separate shallow bowl, mix together the almond flour, unsweetened coconut flakes, paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, and salt. Separating the wet and dry ingredients allows you to create that perfect double coating for extra crunch and flavor.
Step 3: Coat Your Chicken in Egg
Dip each chicken strip one at a time into the whisked egg, flipping it over to ensure each piece is fully coated. This wet layer is crucial as it helps the dry mixture cling tightly, so don’t skip this step!
Step 4: Coat Chicken with the Almond Flour Mixture
Next, transfer the egg-coated chicken directly into the dry mixture. Flip and press gently so every side is well covered in that delicious almond, coconut, and spice blend. Keep going until all your chicken tenders have a nice, even coating that will crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your coated chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Give them a light spray of oil to encourage browning. Bake in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until the tenders are lightly golden on the outside and thoroughly cooked with no pink remaining inside. Serve them warm for the best enjoyment.
How to Serve Healthy Almond Flour Chicken Tenders Baked Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor, garnish your chicken tenders with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest. These bright touches add a burst of color and a refreshing aroma that complements the nutty crust perfectly.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think crisp garden salads, roasted veggies, or even a creamy avocado dip. For a heartier meal, serve with quinoa or mashed sweet potatoes to keep the meal healthy but satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make your Healthy Almond Flour Chicken Tenders Baked Recipe extra fun? Serve the tenders as dippers alongside several homemade sauces like honey mustard, spicy aioli, or a classic marinara. Alternatively, assemble them into wraps or crunchy sandwiches to change things up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover almond flour chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool them completely before refrigerating to maintain crispness as much as possible.
Freezing
To freeze, place baked chicken tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months, letting you enjoy this Healthy Almond Flour Chicken Tenders Baked Recipe anytime quickly.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftover tenders is in a hot oven or toaster oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. This method revives the crispiness much better than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use almond meal instead of almond flour?
Yes! Almond meal is slightly coarser than almond flour, but it will still work well in this recipe. Expect a bit more texture in the coating, which can be a nice variation.
What sauce goes best with these chicken tenders?
These tenders shine with a variety of sauces. Honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch, or even a spicy sriracha mayo work wonderfully with the nutty coating.
Are these chicken tenders gluten free?
Absolutely! This recipe uses almond flour and coconut flakes instead of traditional breadcrumbs, making it a perfect gluten-free option.
Can I make this recipe dairy free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally dairy free as it doesn’t call for any cheese or milk products, making it suitable for those avoiding dairy.
How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?
The tenders are done when the coating is golden and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The chicken should no longer be pink inside.
Final Thoughts
I really hope you give this Healthy Almond Flour Chicken Tenders Baked Recipe a try. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a treat but is actually good for you, too. The crisp, flavorful crust combined with juicy chicken makes it a family favorite, and it’s so simple to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, these tenders are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!
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Healthy Almond Flour Chicken Tenders Baked Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Healthy Almond Flour Chicken Tenders are a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional breaded chicken tenders. Baked to golden perfection with a crispy almond flour and coconut coating, they offer a flavorful, gluten-free, and low-carb meal option that pairs beautifully with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 1 large egg
Coating
- 3/4 cup almond flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
Chicken
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders (or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 390°F (199°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Prepare Coating Mixtures: In one shallow bowl, whisk the large egg until smooth. In a separate shallow bowl, combine the almond flour, unsweetened coconut flakes, paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, and salt, mixing thoroughly to create the dry coating mixture.
- Coat Chicken in Egg Mixture: Dip each chicken strip one at a time into the egg mixture, flipping to ensure it is fully coated. This helps the dry mixture adhere properly.
- Coat Chicken in Dry Mixture: Transfer the egg-coated chicken strip to the almond flour and coconut mixture, flipping to cover all sides evenly. Repeat this process for all chicken strips.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil to encourage a golden and crispy finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the coating is lightly golden and the chicken is cooked through with no pink inside. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, flip the chicken tenders halfway through baking.
- Make sure chicken strips are evenly sized to ensure uniform cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to prevent undercooking.
- Unsweetened coconut flakes add a subtle sweetness; shredded coconut can be substituted but may alter texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
