Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight! are a healthy and delicious twist on classic chicken tenders. This recipe offers a perfect balance of crispy texture and savory flavor, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or even a fun snack. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving comfort food, these almond flour coated chicken tenders will impress everyone. Enjoy the benefits of a gluten-free option without sacrificing taste!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Alternative: These tenders are coated with almond flour, providing a nutritious alternative to traditional breading.
- Quick Cooking Time: With just 12 minutes in the air fryer, you’ll have a meal ready in no time.
- Crispy Texture: Air frying gives you that satisfying crunch without the extra oil of deep frying.
- Versatile: Great as an appetizer, main dish, or served with your favorite dipping sauces.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these flavorful chicken tenders!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful recipe, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand to ensure success.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Shallow Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Air Fryer: This is crucial for achieving that crispy texture we love without deep frying.
- Shallow Bowl: Perfect for mixing the almond flour coating evenly.
- Tongs: Help in flipping and handling the chicken tenders easily while cooking.
Ingredients
To make Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight!, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb (about 450 g) Chicken Tenders
- 1 cup (about 100 g) Almond Flour
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Rinse the chicken tenders under cold water and pat them dry using paper towels.
Step 2: Mix the Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine:
* Almond Flour
* Garlic Powder
* Onion Powder
* Paprika
* Salt
* Black Pepper
Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Take each chicken tender and coat it in the almond flour mixture. Press gently to ensure that the coating sticks well.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket
Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil in the air fryer basket. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer.
Step 6: Cook the Chicken Tenders
Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Step 7: Check Doneness
Make sure that each tender reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before removing from the air fryer.
Step 8: Rest Before Serving
Let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy your tasty Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight!
How to Serve Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight!
Serving Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight! is an exciting part of enjoying this healthy dish. Here are some creative ways to present these delicious tenders for any meal.
With Dipping Sauces
- Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy sauce that complements the savory flavors of the chicken.
- Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch adds a classic touch and enhances the taste of the tenders.
- BBQ Sauce: Smoky BBQ sauce brings a delightful contrast and adds a kick to the dish.
On a Salad
- Caesar Salad: Top fresh romaine with chicken tenders, croutons, and Caesar dressing for a filling meal.
- Mixed Green Salad: Toss the tenders onto mixed greens with your favorite vinaigrette for a lighter option.
As a Sandwich
- Chicken Tender Wrap: Wrap the tenders in a tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and your choice of sauce for an easy lunch.
- Bun Sandwich: Place tenders on a bun with all the fixings for a healthier take on a classic chicken sandwich.
How to Perfect Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight!
To make your Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight! even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and spices will enhance flavor and texture.
- Preheat Properly: Ensuring the air fryer is preheated allows for even cooking and crispiness.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy tenders.
- Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the almond flour mixture for extra flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight!
Pairing side dishes with your Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight! can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries complement the savory chicken well.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy side that balances out the richness of the chicken tenders.
- Steamed Broccoli: Nutritious and vibrant, steamed broccoli is an easy way to add greens to your meal.
- Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed salad pairs nicely with chicken and offers a hearty side option.
- Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower is a low-carb alternative that goes perfectly with tenders.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds summer vibes and pairs beautifully with crispy chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight! can be simple, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for. Here are a few tips to ensure your chicken tenders turn out perfectly every time.
- Skipping the drying step: If you don’t pat the chicken dry, the coating won’t adhere properly. Always make sure to remove excess moisture from the tenders.
- Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too many tenders in the basket can prevent them from cooking evenly. Arrange them in a single layer for the best results.
- Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can result in bland chicken. Be generous with spices in your almond flour mixture to enhance flavor.
- Ignoring cooking times: Each air fryer is different, and cooking times may vary. Always check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).
- Not resting before serving: Allowing the tenders to rest helps retain their juices and improves texture. Don’t skip this step!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight!
- Place cooled chicken tenders in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- These can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight!
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place tenders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until warm, but this may make them less crispy.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil. Add chicken tenders and cook until heated through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight gluten-free?
You’re already on the right track! Using almond flour ensures that these chicken tenders are gluten-free. Just double-check any additional ingredients for gluten content.
Can I use other types of flour instead of almond flour?
Yes, you can substitute almond flour with other flours like coconut flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs, but it may change the texture and flavor slightly.
How do I ensure my chicken tenders are crispy?
To achieve a crispy texture, avoid overcrowding your air fryer and ensure that you coat each piece evenly with almond flour. Lightly spraying with oil also helps!
What dipping sauces go well with Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight?
These tenders pair wonderfully with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight! is not only a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the spices or even add herbs to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Delight
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Almond Flour Coated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a deliciously healthy alternative to traditional fried chicken. These tenders are coated with almond flour, which not only provides a satisfying crunch but also keeps the dish gluten-free. Ideal for lunch, dinner, or as a fun snack, they can be served with various dipping sauces or incorporated into salads and wraps. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, these tenders will impress with their savory flavor and crispy texture.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Rinse and pat dry the chicken tenders.
- In a shallow bowl, mix almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Coat each chicken tender in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil and arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
- Allow them to rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 113g (about 4 chicken tenders)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For added flavor, experiment with different spices such as cayenne pepper or Italian herbs in the almond flour mixture. Serve with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce for dipping. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for two months.