Almond Crusted Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy nutty coating with juicy chicken
• Packed with flavor and texture
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
• Great low-carb alternative to breadcrumbs
• Perfect for weeknight meals or special dinners
• High in protein and satisfying
• Pairs well with many side dishes

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup almonds, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley and lemon wedges for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking dish or baking sheet.
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
3. In a shallow bowl, combine chopped almonds, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. In another bowl, whisk the eggs.
5. Dip each chicken breast into the eggs, then coat thoroughly in the almond mixture.
6. Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking dish.
7. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Almond Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the coating.
• Herb Crusted Version: Mix dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the almond coating.
• Air Fryer Option: Cook in the air fryer at 375°F until crispy and cooked through.
• Honey Mustard Style: Serve with honey mustard dipping sauce.
• Gluten-Free Version: This recipe is naturally gluten-free when using certified ingredients.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover almond crusted chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, bake in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the coating may soften.

Cooked chicken can also be sliced and used in salads or wraps.

FAQs

Can I use almond flour instead of chopped almonds?

Yes, almond flour can work, though chopped almonds provide more crunch.

How do I keep the coating crispy?

Bake at a high temperature and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work very well and stay juicy.

Is almond crusted chicken gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables, salads, rice, and mashed potatoes pair beautifully.

Can I pan-fry instead of bake?

Yes, pan-frying creates an even crispier crust.

Why is my coating falling off?

Press the almond mixture firmly onto the chicken and avoid moving it too much during cooking.

Can I freeze almond crusted chicken?

Yes, cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.

What sauces go well with almond crusted chicken?

Honey mustard, garlic aioli, ranch, or lemon butter sauce all pair nicely.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F and the juices should run clear.

Conclusion

Almond Crusted Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines crunchy nutty coating with tender juicy chicken. Easy enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for entertaining, this recipe offers a delicious alternative to traditional breaded chicken. With its crispy texture and savory flavor, it’s a versatile meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Almond Crusted Chicken

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Almond Crusted Chicken is a crispy and flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in crunchy almonds, Parmesan cheese, and savory seasonings. This easy low-carb meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant entertaining.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup almonds, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for serving
• Lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking dish or baking sheet.
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
3. In a shallow bowl, combine the chopped almonds, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. In another bowl, whisk the eggs.
5. Dip each chicken breast into the eggs, then coat thoroughly in the almond mixture.
6. Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking dish.
7. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the almond coating.
• Boneless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a juicier option.
• Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
• This recipe is naturally gluten-free when using certified gluten-free ingredients.
• Serve with roasted vegetables, salad, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
• Calories: 420 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 540 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 42 g
• Cholesterol: 155 mg