Healthy Low Carb Baked Chicken Tenders For Clean Eating Meal Prep
If you are looking for a delicious and nutritious meal prep option that is low in carbs, look no further! These Healthy Low Carb Baked Chicken Tenders are perfect for those who want to stick to clean eating while enjoying flavorful food. They are easy to make, packed with protein, and can be served with a variety of sides, making them an ideal choice for meal prep. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create these crispy baked chicken tenders that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Cooking spray (for the baking sheet)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray. This will help the chicken tenders to crisp up nicely.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and olive oil until well combined. This mixture will help the coatings adhere to the chicken.
- In another shallow bowl, combine the almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the seasonings.
- Cut the chicken breasts into tenders, approximately 1-inch wide. This size allows for even cooking and crispy texture.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, ensuring it is thoroughly coated.
- Next, dredge the coated chicken tender in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out and not touching. This will help them cook evenly and get crispy.
- Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps to retain their juiciness.
- Serve the baked chicken tenders with your choice of dipping sauces, such as a low-carb ranch or a zesty dipping sauce.
Why Choose Low Carb Chicken Tenders?
Low carb eating has numerous benefits, including weight management and stable energy levels. These chicken tenders provide a satisfying protein source without the excess carbs found in traditional breaded options. By using almond flour and Parmesan cheese, we create a crunchy coating that is both delicious and in line with clean eating principles.
Meal Prep Made Easy
These chicken tenders are perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. They can be enjoyed cold in salads, reheated in the oven or microwave, or paired with various low-carb sides for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
These Healthy Low Carb Baked Chicken Tenders are versatile and pair perfectly with several sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Steamed broccoli or cauliflower for a nutritious vegetable side.
- Mixed greens salad topped with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette.
- Cauliflower rice or zoodles for a low-carb alternative to traditional grains.
- Guacamole or salsa for an added flavor boost.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your chicken tenders, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 4 days. When reheating, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless.
- What can I use instead of almond flour?
- Coconut flour can be used, but you will need to adjust the amount as it absorbs more moisture than almond flour.
- Are these chicken tenders gluten-free?
- Yes, these chicken tenders are gluten-free as they are made with almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
- Can I freeze the chicken tenders?
- Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked chicken tenders. Just make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Conclusion
Healthy Low Carb Baked Chicken Tenders are a fantastic addition to any clean eating meal plan. They are easy to prepare, delicious, and versatile. With the ability to customize the seasoning and pair with various sides, you can keep your meals exciting and nutritious. So next time you are planning your weekly meals, give these baked chicken tenders a try. Your taste buds and your body will thank you!
