Are you craving crispy, golden chicken tenders but want to stick to your low-carb or keto lifestyle? Look no further! Our Low Carb Baked Chicken Tenders recipe is here to satisfy your cravings while keeping your carb intake in check. These tender chicken strips are coated in a flavorful blend of parmesan cheese, ground almonds, and aromatic spices, then baked to perfection. Whether enjoyed as a tasty snack, a satisfying meal, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these baked chicken tenders are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey to discover the secrets behind this irresistible low-carb delight!
Ingredients: Gather the following ingredients to create your own batch of Low Carb Baked Chicken Tenders:
- 2 ounces parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 1/4 cup finely ground almonds
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon dried mustard
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
Instructions: Follow these simple steps to achieve crispy perfection with your Low Carb Baked Chicken Tenders:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the finely grated parmesan cheese, finely ground almonds, granulated garlic, dried mustard, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Coat the Chicken Strips: Melt the butter in a separate shallow dish. Dip each chicken strip into the melted butter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Dredge in the Coating: After coating the chicken in butter, dredge it in the parmesan and almond mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating to the chicken. Repeat the process for each chicken strip, coating them thoroughly.
- Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other to ensure even cooking.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken tenders for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Cook Notes and Variations: Customize your Low Carb Baked Chicken Tenders with these helpful tips and variations:
- Adding Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the coating mixture.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese in the coating, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or asiago, for unique flavor profiles.
- Herbaceous Touch: Enhance the flavor of your chicken tenders by incorporating fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme into the coating mixture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions: Indulge guilt-free with these keto and low-carb adaptations:
- Keto-Friendly Option: Replace the butter with melted ghee or coconut oil for a dairy-free and keto-friendly alternative. Serve the chicken tenders with a side of low-carb marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Use almond flour instead of ground almonds for a finer texture and lower carb count. You can also skip the butter coating and simply brush the chicken strips with olive oil before dredging them in the almond-parmesan mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q: Can I use pre-shredded parmesan cheese for this recipe? A: While pre-shredded parmesan cheese may work, it often contains added ingredients that can affect the texture and flavor of the coating. For best results, it’s recommended to use freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Q: Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time and reheat them later? A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: Can I freeze these chicken tenders for later use? A: Yes, these chicken tenders can be frozen after baking. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a juicier and more flavorful result. Simply adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.
In conclusion, Low Carb Baked Chicken Tenders are a delicious and satisfying alternative to traditional breaded chicken tenders. With their crispy coating, tender chicken, and flavorful seasoning, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your low-carb or keto meal rotation. Whether enjoyed as a quick and easy weeknight dinner or served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering, these chicken tenders are guaranteed to impress. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the irresistible goodness of Low Carb Baked Chicken Tenders—it’s a low-carb delight you won’t want to miss!
With this comprehensive guide, you’re well-equipped to create a batch of mouthwatering Low Carb Baked Chicken Tenders that will satisfy your cravings and keep you on track with your low-carb or keto lifestyle. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a guilt-free treat that’s sure to please your taste buds!
