Keto Fried Chicken Tenders – Crispy Low Carb

Keto Fried Chicken Tenders – These easy low carb fried chicken tenders are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, these chicken tenders are not only guilt-free but also incredibly easy to make for a quick weeknight dinner or a snack.

Why Choose Keto Chicken Tenders?

Chicken tenders are a family-friendly dish, and making them keto-friendly is simple with a few tweaks. These tenders ditch the traditional breadcrumbs in favor of low-carb alternatives like almond flour or pork rinds. Here’s why you’ll love them:

• Low-carb and gluten-free: Perfect for those following a ketogenic, gluten-free, or low-carb diet.
• Quick to make: Ready in under 30 minutes, making them an ideal weeknight meal.
• Versatile: Can be air-fried, baked, or pan-fried with delicious results.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Keto Chicken Tenders

• Use pork rinds for extra crunch: If you’re after a super crunchy exterior, opt for ground pork rinds instead of almond flour. They mimic the texture of traditional breadcrumbs perfectly!
• Don’t overcrowd the pan/air fryer: Giving your tenders space ensures they crisp up evenly and don’t get soggy.
• Double coat for extra crispiness: For an extra-crispy coating, repeat the dipping process—dip the tenders in the egg wash and almond flour mixture twice.
• Season generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning. The breading can absorb a lot of flavors, so adjust seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is already a hit, you can easily switch it up:

• Parmesan-Crusted: Add 1/4 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese to your almond flour mixture for a cheesy, salty flavor boost.
• Coconut Flour: Substitute almond flour with coconut flour for a lighter, slightly sweet flavor. Just be mindful that coconut flour absorbs more liquid, so use a thinner coating.
• Spicy Tenders: For those who love a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili flakes to the breading mix.

How to Serve Keto Chicken Tenders

Keto chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and pair well with various sides and sauces. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

• Keto-friendly dipping sauces: Serve with sugar-free ketchup, mustard, or homemade ranch dressing.
• Sides: Pair them with cauliflower mash, a fresh green salad, or roasted Brussels sprouts for a low-carb feast.
• Wrap it up: Make a keto chicken wrap using lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas. Add some avocado, cheese, and a drizzle of hot sauce for a satisfying lunch!

Storing and Reheating Keto Chicken Tenders

If you make a large batch or have leftovers, here’s how to keep your tenders fresh:

• In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, use the air fryer or oven to maintain their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
• In the freezer: Freeze cooked tenders on a baking sheet in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?

Yes, you can substitute coconut flour, but it tends to absorb more moisture, so you may need to adjust the quantity to prevent the coating from becoming too dry.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but if you’re adding Parmesan, just omit it or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenders?

Yes! Chicken thighs offer a juicier alternative to tenders. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

Can I bake them instead of frying?

Definitely. Baking or air frying works perfectly and is a healthier alternative to pan-frying.

How can I make them spicier?

Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce to the egg wash, or even mix in some chili powder or smoked paprika into the breading for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

Keto chicken tenders are a delicious way to stay on track with your low-carb goals without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you’re whipping them up for a quick lunch, a game day snack, or a kid-friendly dinner, these tenders are guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, with so many variations and serving options, this recipe never gets boring!

So, grab your favorite low-carb breading, fire up your air fryer or oven, and enjoy the crunchy, juicy goodness of keto chicken tenders. Happy cooking!

Also Read:

• Keto Chicken Tenderloin
• Keto Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
• Keto Coconut Chicken Tenders