Baked Almond-Crusted Chicken Tenders

Do you crave a meal that’s crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed full of flavor? Look no further than these Baked Almond-Crusted Chicken Tenders! Tender chicken strips are delightfully coated with a nutty almond crust that’s not just healthier than traditional breadcrumbs but also adds a fantastic earthy flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe delivers both satisfaction and comfort. Buckle up because this isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s your new go-to for a delicious and healthier take on chicken tenders.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Almond-Crusted Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a dish that ticks all the right boxes, then Baked Almond-Crusted Chicken Tenders is your answer! Here are a few reasons you’ll want to whip these up:

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Perfect for Beginners: Even if you’ve never cooked chicken before, this recipe is simple enough to get you started without a hitch.
Ideal for the Whole Family: Kids love finger foods, and this healthier twist on chicken tenders means you won’t have to feel guilty about letting them indulge.
Economical: Chicken tends to be budget-friendly, and paired with almonds you might already have in your pantry, this meal is economical without sacrificing taste.
Customizable: With optional ingredients and easy swaps suggested in this article, you can modify the recipe to fit your family’s preferences!

The Necessary Ingredients

Before you get started, let’s gather what you need for this delicious endeavor. Here’s your shopping list for Baked Almond-Crusted Chicken Tenders:

1.5 lbs chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
1 1/2 cups raw almonds or almond meal
2 large eggs
2 tbsp milk or almond milk
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Olive oil spray or neutral oil for brushing
Optional: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
Optional: 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or Italian blend)
Optional: 1 tsp Dijon mustard (for egg mixture)

Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:

Almonds: If you have almond meal on hand, feel free to use that! It’s still packed with flavor and will give you a fantastic crust.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a lovely tanginess to the egg wash. If you’re not a fan, you can simply omit it, and the tenders will still turn out great.
Chicken: While chicken tenders are ideal, feel free to substitute with boneless, skinless thighs or breasts. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they stay juicy!

How to Prepare the Baked Almond-Crusted Chicken Tenders Step by Step

Ready to cook? Let’s make these Baked Almond-Crusted Chicken Tenders together! Follow these easy steps:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden crust.

Pro Tip: Preheating your oven is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.
Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels and lightly season them with salt and pepper. This helps the spices stick and enhances the flavor.

Pro Tip: Removing excess moisture is key to a crispy exterior.
Pulse Almonds: In a food processor, pulse the almonds until they become coarse crumbs. Aim for a texture that resembles breadcrumbs, but don’t over-process!

Pro Tip: Stop when you see a crumbly consistency; over-processing can turn them into almond butter.
Mix Coating: Transfer the almond crumbs to a bowl and stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and if you’re using, Parmesan or herbs. This is your flavorful crust mix!

Pro Tip: Make sure everything is well mixed to ensure an even flavor on each tender.
Whisk Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with milk and Dijon mustard (if using). This will act as the "glue" for your crust.

Pro Tip: Be thorough with whisking to incorporate air, leading to a fluffier texture.
Prepare Flour (Optional): If desired, place a small amount of seasoned flour or cornstarch in a third bowl. This step is optional but can add an extra crunchy layer.

Pro Tip: Dredging in flour helps the egg mixture adhere better!
Dredging Process: Dredge each chicken piece in the optional flour, dip in the egg mixture, and then coat with the almond mixture, pressing the crumbs on firmly. This creates a beautiful, crunchy exterior.

Pro Tip: The more you press, the more adhered the coating will be—don’t skip this step!
Arrange Tenders: Place the coated tenders on the wire rack or baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking.

Pro Tip: Use a wire rack if you have one; it allows hot air to circulate for an even crisping effect.
Oil Coating: Spray lightly with oil or brush with a small amount to help achieve that golden color in the oven.

Pro Tip: A light mist of oil will make all the difference for crunchiness!
Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for perfectly cooked chicken.
Rest and Serve: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist.

Pro Tip: Resting makes a big difference in the tenderness of your chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Almond-Crusted Chicken Tenders are versatile, and they pair beautifully with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are some suggestions for making your meal even more delightful:

Perfect Pairings

Dipping Sauces: Try serving with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a tangy barbecue sauce.
Side Salads: A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the crunchiness of the tenders beautifully.
Vegetable Sides: Roast some seasonal vegetables or whip up a creamy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.

Occasions

Weeknight Dinner: This recipe is a fantastic and quick dinner option!
Kids’ Party: Make mini versions for finger foods that kids will love during parties.
Game Day Snack: Perfect for sharing while cheering on your favorite team!

Serving Tips

Serve the tenders on a large platter for a casual feel or arrange them neatly for a more elegant touch.
Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a pop of color and a zesty kick.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your tenders to keep them fresh and crispy:

Refrigerated:

Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Container: Use an airtight container to keep them from drying out.

Freezed:

Packaging: Wrap tenders tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Duration: They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

Best Method: Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help maintain their crispy texture, unlike microwaving.

Guaranteed Success Tips

To ensure your Baked Almond-Crusted Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly every time, keep these golden rules in mind:

Don’t Overmix the Egg Mixture: Just whisk to combine; over-mixing can make the eggs rubbery.
Pay Attention to Cooking Time: Every oven is different; keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Ensure the Chicken is Dry: The drier the chicken, the better the coating will stick and crisp up.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and herbs can drastically improve flavors in your dish.
Don’t Skip the Resting Step: Letting the chicken rest helps retain moisture for tender bites.

Recipe Variations

Looking to mix things up? Here are some delicious variations to try:

For a Spicy Version: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the almond crumb mixture. This will kick up the flavor and add a nice heat!
For a Vegan Version: Replace the chicken with slices of eggplant or zucchini and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) instead of eggs.
For a Mediterranean Twist: Blend in some feta cheese into the almond mixture, and use herbs like oregano and rosemary for a flavorful Greek-inspired version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative that adds a bit more flavor. Ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Why are my chicken tenders not crispy?

A: If your chicken isn’t crispy, make sure you’ve adequately dried them before coating and used enough oil spray during the baking process.

Q: Can I make these tenders ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the tenders up to the baking step, store them in the fridge, and then bake them when you’re ready to eat.

Q: How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through?

A: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This will prevent undercooked chicken while maintaining juiciness.

Q: What can I serve with these chicken tenders?

A: Pair them with a side salad, coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a refreshing dipping sauce for a complete meal.

Q: Can I bake these tenders from frozen?

A: It’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can bake from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: Are there any gluten-free options?

A: Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure the almond meal and any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Now you have all the tools and guidance you need to make these Baked Almond-Crusted Chicken Tenders a family favorite! Enjoy the process of cooking, and don’t forget to relish every delicious bite.