Keto Chicken Tenders

Keto Chicken Tenders

Whenever I crave something crispy, yet guilt-free, I turn to my favorite dish: Keto Chicken Tenders. These tenders are ideal for those busy weeknights when I want something quick, delicious, and healthy. Just the other day, I found myself juggling work and family time, and I knew these would be a hit at the dinner table. The moment I take a bite, I’m transported to a world of flavor that makes me forget they’re actually keto-friendly! With a perfect crunch on the outside and tender, juicy chicken on the inside, they’ve become a staple in our house. It’s amazing how a simple recipe can evoke such joy and satisfaction.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
10 mins
Difficulty:
Easy
Calories:
300 kcal
Protein:
30 g
Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Vegan
Fat:
18 g
Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Whisk, Food Processor, Oven

Why We Love This Keto Chicken Tenders

Flavorful Crunch

What sets these Keto Chicken Tenders apart is their delightful crunch. Coating them with almond flour and keto bread crumbs provides a satisfying crunch that’s hard to resist. Each bite is a celebration of crispy goodness that pairs wonderfully with your favorite dips.

Health-Conscious Choice

These tenders are a great way to enjoy a classic without the carbs. Using skinless chicken makes this dish a low-calorie protein option that fits perfectly into a keto lifestyle. It’s a win-win situation for anyone trying to eat healthier.

Quick and Easy

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, these tenders can be whipped up in no time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a whole family, they can be ready to serve in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weekday!

Customizable Flavor

You can add your own twist to the Keto Chicken Tenders by incorporating different spices and herbs. Whether you want something spicy with paprika or a subtle flavor with garlic powder, the options are endless. Personalizing your dish has never been easier!

Family-Friendly

Kids love these tenders! They’re a fantastic way to introduce healthier meals to picky eaters without sacrificing taste. The familiar chicken tender shape is perfect for little hands and is easy to dip in their favorite sauces.

Ingredients Required for Keto Chicken Tenders

Keto Chicken Tenders

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious Keto Chicken Tenders. Each element plays an important role in creating the perfect blend of flavor and texture. The star of the show, the chicken, provides lean protein, while the almond flour and keto bread crumbs contribute to that satisfying crunch. Together, these ingredients make a harmonious balance that’s both healthy and fulfilling.

  • 1 lb chicken tenders (skinless and boneless): The lean protein that forms the base of our dish, ensuring a satisfying meal.
  • 1/4 cup almond flour: Adds a gluten-free crunch that complements the chicken beautifully.
  • 1/4 cup keto bread crumbs (or extra almond flour): Enhances the texture while keeping it keto-friendly.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: A crucial seasoning that enhances all the flavors in the dish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the tenders.
  • 1 large egg: The binding agent that helps the breading stick to the chicken.

Instructions for Keto Chicken Tenders

Keto Chicken Tenders

Making Keto Chicken Tenders is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.

  1. Start by preheating your oven to 200C/400F. This step is vital as it ensures the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that crispy texture we’re after. While the oven heats up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the almond flour, keto bread crumbs, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create the flavorful crust that gives your tenders that delightful crunch.

  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg. This will act as a wash for the chicken, helping the dry ingredients adhere to each piece.

  4. Now, take a chicken tender and dip it into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated. This step is crucial as it creates a sticky surface for the breading to cling to. You want to really cover it well!

  5. Next, transfer the egg-coated chicken into the bowl with the dry mixture. Coat it thoroughly, making sure every side is covered with that crunchy goodness. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders.

  6. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space between them. Overcrowding will cause them to steam rather than bake, which isn’t what we want!

  7. Now, it’s time to bake! Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the tenders cook for 20 minutes. Halfway through, flip them over to ensure even cooking and browning. This will give you that perfect golden exterior.

  8. Once they reach an internal temperature of 160C, they’re ready to come out of the oven. The aroma in your kitchen will be irresistible, and you’ll know you’ve created something fantastic.

  9. Remove the chicken from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy. Serve them immediately for the best experience!

Things Worth Knowing

Things Worth Knowing

  • Make It Ahead: You can prepare the tenders ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a quick dinner later in the week. Just reheat in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
  • Perfect Serving Size: Depending on your appetite, feel free to adjust the serving size of the tenders. They’re perfect for meal prep!
  • Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a hotter version. The dish is versatile, and you can customize it to your liking.
  • Dipping Sauce: Pair with a low-carb dipping sauce like keto ranch dressing or sugar-free BBQ sauce for a delicious combo!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

Keto Chicken Tenders

There are countless ways to make the Keto Chicken Tenders your own! Here are some tips to inspire your culinary creativity.

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
  • Freezing: These tenders freeze well! Just make sure they’re fully cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated directly from frozen.
  • Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
  • Flavor Variations: Mix in spices like garlic powder or Italian herbs to the coating for a unique flavor twist.
  • Healthy Dips: Try pairing them with homemade sauces like avocado dip or tzatziki to keep it healthy while enjoying.

What to Serve Alongside Keto Chicken Tenders

Creating a meal around the Keto Chicken Tenders is simple and fun! Here are some delicious ideas to complement your dish:

  • Crispy Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette makes a great side. The crunchiness of the salad pairs wonderfully with the tenders.
  • Vegetable Medley: Roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus can add color and nutrients to your plate.
  • Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice seasoned with herbs for a filling and satisfying meal.
  • Meal Prep Bowls: Create meal prep bowls with a base of leafy greens, topped with chicken tenders, cucumbers, and avocado for a quick lunch option.
  • Party Platter: These tenders are also perfect for parties. Serve with a trio of dips for guests to enjoy as an appetizer!

FAQ

When it comes to dipping sauces for Keto Chicken Tenders, the options are endless! Some of my favorites include keto ranch dressing, sugar-free BBQ sauce, and homemade honey mustard. These sauces enhance the flavor and provide a delicious way to enjoy the tenders. You can even get creative by mixing plain Greek yogurt with spices to create a unique dip. Whatever you choose, these tenders are sure to shine!

Absolutely! One of the great things about Keto Chicken Tenders is that they can be prepared in advance. You can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for a day or even freeze it for longer storage. When you are ready to eat, simply bake them from frozen or let them thaw in the refrigerator before baking. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Storing leftovers of Keto Chicken Tenders is simple. Place any uneaten tenders in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just ensure they are completely cool before putting them in the freezer. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispy texture for a quick meal later!

Yes! The versatility of Keto Chicken Tenders means you can experiment with various flavors and spices. For a twist, try adding different herbs like thyme or oregano to the breading. You can also substitute the chicken for other proteins like shrimp or tofu for a different meal option. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!

Conclusion

The Keto Chicken Tenders truly stand out with their crispy texture and savory flavor, making them a great choice for any meal. I encourage you to give them a try and experience the joy of a healthy, homemade dish. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a cozy night in, these tenders will surely satisfy your cravings!

Keto Chicken Tenders

Keto Chicken Tenders

Satisfy your cravings with these Keto Chicken Tenders. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, they make a perfect healthy weeknight dinner. Easy to prepare and deliciously flavorful, you'll want to make these again and again!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Whisk
  • Food Processor
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Chicken tenders skinless and boneless
  • 1/4 cup Almond flour
  • 1/4 cup Keto bread crumbs or extra almond flour
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1 large Egg

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 200C/400F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the almond flour, keto bread crumbs, salt, and pepper.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the egg.
  • Add a chicken tender into the egg wash then dip it in the dry ingredients, ensuring both sides have been coated in the 'breading'. Repeat until all the chicken has been coated.
  • Bake the chicken tender for 20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 160C, flipping halfway through.
  • Remove them from the oven and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Tip 1: You can play with flavors by mixing in some garlic powder, onion powder, or any spices of your choosing to completely transform the dish.
  • Tip 2: For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon or two of smoked paprika and/or cayenne pepper to the crumb mixture.
  • Tip 3: Don’t forget the dipping sauce! Try my keto ranch dressing, sugar-free ketchup, keto honey mustard, and sugar-free BBQ sauce.
Keyword Healthy Chicken Recipes, Keto Chicken Tenders, Keto Meal Prep, Low Carb Dinners

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