Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 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 smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
• Optional: fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. While the oven heats up, prepare the chicken. Slice the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into tenders, about 1 inch wide.
3. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs until well beaten. In another bowl, mix the almond flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken tender first into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
5. Place the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil for added crispiness.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Remove from the oven and let the chicken tenders cool slightly before serving or storing.
8. If desired, garnish with fresh herbs to add a pop of color and flavor.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These make-ahead low carb baked chicken tenders are perfect for meal prep. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.

For a complete meal, serve these chicken tenders with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or cauliflower rice. They also pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, such as sugar-free barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or a tangy mustard sauce.

Why Choose Low Carb Chicken Tenders?

Choosing low carb options like these chicken tenders can help you maintain a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing taste. Traditional breaded chicken tenders can be high in carbohydrates due to the breadcrumbs used. By substituting almond flour and Parmesan cheese, you create a crunchy coating that is not only low in carbs but also gluten-free.

Almond flour is a great alternative for those looking to cut down on carbs, as it is made from finely ground almonds and is packed with healthy fats and protein. Parmesan cheese adds a savory flavor and contributes to the crispy texture, making these tenders absolutely irresistible!

Nutrition Information

When meal prepping, it is important to consider the nutritional value of your meals. These low carb baked chicken tenders are not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutrition information per serving:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze these chicken tenders?

Yes, you can freeze these chicken tenders! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

2. What can I use instead of almond flour?

If you don’t have almond flour, you can use coconut flour as an alternative. However, keep in mind that coconut flour absorbs more moisture, so you’ll need to adjust the amount of flour used and add more eggs or liquid to your mixture.

3. Can I make these chicken tenders in an air fryer?

Absolutely! To make these chicken tenders in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and cooked through.

4. How can I spice up the flavor of the chicken tenders?

You can customize the flavor of the chicken tenders by adding your favorite spices. Consider adding cayenne pepper for heat, Italian seasoning for a herby flavor, or even a dash of lemon zest for brightness!

Final Thoughts

These make-ahead low carb baked chicken tenders are a fantastic addition to your weekly meal prep routine. They are easy to make, delicious, and healthy, ensuring that you will look forward to your meals throughout the week. With their crispy coating and tender meat, they are bound to be a hit with the whole family.

So, gather your ingredients and get started on your meal prep today. Enjoy these chicken tenders as a fulfilling lunch or dinner option, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!