This Keto Fried Chicken recipe is a game-changer for those following a low-carb lifestyle while still craving the crispy, savory goodness of fried chicken. Coated in a seasoned almond flour and Parmesan cheese crust, each bite is juicy and flavorful, without the guilt of traditional breading. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish promises to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will love this recipe because it delivers on flavor without compromising on dietary goals. The chicken is perfectly seasoned and fried to a golden brown, ensuring a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat inside. The ease of preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, and because it aligns with keto principles, it fits seamlessly into a low-carb lifestyle. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served for any occasion, from a casual weeknight meal to a festive gathering.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least an hour before breading. This not only enhances flavor but also ensures the chicken stays juicy.
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the almond flour mixture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.
- If frying in batches, keep the cooked chicken warm in a low oven to maintain crispiness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying, as this lowers the oil temperature and leads to soggy chicken.
- Don’t skip the marinating step; this adds moisture and flavor.
- Be cautious with the heat; too high can burn the coating before the chicken cooks through, while too low will make it greasy.
- Using the wrong type of flour can result in a different texture; stick to almond flour for the best keto-friendly result.
Make Ahead Tips
To make this recipe in advance, marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator. You can also prepare the breading mixture ahead of time and keep it in an airtight container. The cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep!
Recipe Variations
- For a gluten-free option, ensure your almond flour is certified gluten-free.
- Swap out the chicken for turkey or even cauliflower for a vegetarian version.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices in the breading, such as Italian seasoning or smoked paprika, to create your own unique flavor profile.
- For a healthier twist, bake the chicken in the oven instead of frying it.
How to Serve
Serve the finished fried chicken on a rustic wooden board or a white platter for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color, and consider adding lemon wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze of freshness. Pair it with a side of creamy coleslaw or a fresh garden salad to make a complete meal.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully. If you prefer cocktails, a refreshing gin and tonic is a lovely choice. For non-alcoholic options, iced tea with lemon or sparkling water will cleanse the palate. Side dishes like zucchini fries or a cauliflower mash make excellent companions to this dish, and a sugar-free cheesecake or keto brownies can satisfy your sweet tooth afterwards.
How to Store
Store any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container; it will last up to three months. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Equipment Needed
- A cast iron skillet is ideal for frying, as it retains heat well and provides an even cooking surface. However, any heavy-bottomed frying pan will work.
- A meat thermometer is essential for checking the chicken’s internal temperature.
- For a healthier option, an air fryer can also be used to achieve crispy chicken with less oil.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice. For nut-free options, you can use sunflower seed flour in place of almond flour. If you need to avoid gluten, ensure that all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, pair this fried chicken with fresh herbs like basil or dill for a brighter flavor profile. In the fall or winter, consider adding spices like sage or thyme to the breading for a warm, cozy taste.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost for this keto fried chicken recipe comes in at around $4 per serving, depending on the price of chicken and ingredients in your area. To stay budget-friendly, consider buying chicken in bulk or using bone-in pieces, which are often less expensive than boneless.
Kitchen Hacks
To make breading easier and cleaner, use a shallow dish for the dry ingredients and another for the wet. This minimizes mess and keeps your hands relatively clean. Additionally, to easily coat the chicken, use tongs to dip and flip, allowing you to maintain control.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken? Yes, boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well, but cooking times may vary.
What can I substitute for almond flour? Coconut flour can be used, but you’ll need to adjust the quantity, as it absorbs more moisture.
How long can I keep leftovers? Leftover fried chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.
How To Make keto fried chicken recipe
Keto Fried Chicken
This Keto Fried Chicken recipe is a game-changer for those following a low-carb lifestyle while still craving the crispy, savory goodness of fried chicken.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 cup almond flour
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk (or plant-based milk with lemon juice)
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Start by marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for best results.
- In a large bowl, combine almond flour, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess liquid drip off, and then dredge each piece thoroughly in the almond flour mixture.
- Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 558Total Fat 40gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 29gCholesterol 180mgSodium 835mgCarbohydrates 13gFiber 4gSugar 4gProtein 42g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This keto fried chicken recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a classic dish without straying from your dietary goals. With its crispy coating and juicy interior, it’s a dish that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their diet. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a staple in your meal rotation!