Looking for a tasty meal prep idea that’s easy and healthy? You’re in the right place! This Nutty Meal Prep Almond Crusted Chicken Tenders recipe will make dinner fun. Made with simple ingredients like chicken, almond flour, and spices, these tenders are crunchy and flavorful. Plus, they're perfect for busy weeks ahead. Let’s dive into a recipe that will keep your meals exciting and your taste buds happy!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients Needed
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup ground almonds
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Chicken tenders are the star of this dish. They stay juicy and cook quickly. Almond flour and ground almonds form a crunchy, tasty crust. The eggs and Dijon mustard help the crust stick well.
Seasonings and Oils
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
The seasonings add flavor and depth. Garlic powder and onion powder give a savory touch. Smoked paprika adds a hint of smokiness. Salt and pepper bring out all the flavors. Olive oil helps the tenders brown nicely in the oven.
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
I love adding fresh parsley at the end. It adds color and a fresh taste. You can also serve the chicken tenders with dipping sauces. Honey mustard or ranch dressing works great!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
First, I preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature cooks the chicken well, giving it a nice crust. Next, I line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Preparing the Coating Mixture
In a shallow bowl, I mix the dry ingredients. I combine 1 cup of almond flour, 1/2 cup of ground almonds, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. This flavorful blend makes the chicken taste amazing.
In another bowl, I whisk the wet ingredients. I add 2 large eggs and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. I mix until it's smooth and creamy. This will help the coating stick to the chicken.
Coating and Baking the Chicken
For the chicken tenders, I use a simple dipping method. I take each tender and dip it in the egg mixture first. I let any extra egg drip off. Then, I coat it in the almond mixture. I press the coating onto the chicken to help it stick.
Once coated, I arrange the chicken tenders on the baking sheet. I drizzle a little olive oil over the tops. This adds moisture and helps them turn golden brown.
I bake the tenders for about 15-20 minutes. Halfway through, I flip them to ensure even cooking. They are done when the crust is golden and the chicken is cooked through. After baking, I let them cool for a few minutes. I finish by garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring the Perfect Crunch
To get the crust to stick, dip the chicken in the egg mix first. Let the excess drip off. Then, coat it well in the almond mix. Press the mixture onto the chicken. This helps it stay on during baking. Olive oil is key to browning. Drizzling it over the chicken before baking gives it a nice golden color. It also helps keep the chicken moist.
Meal Prep Suggestions
Store the cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days. For reheating, use an oven for the best results. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes. This keeps the crust crispy. When prepping meals, portion the tenders into single servings. This makes it easy to grab and go.
Presentation Ideas
For serving, place the chicken tenders on a rustic wooden board. This adds a nice touch. You can add a small bowl of dipping sauce, like honey mustard or ranch. Garnish the plate with lemon wedges for a fresh look. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and flavor. This makes your meal not just tasty, but also visually appealing!
Variations
Flavor Enhancements
To spice up these almond crusted chicken tenders, try different spices. Cayenne adds heat, while Italian herbs can bring fresh flavor. Experimenting with your favorite seasonings keeps things fun. You can also switch up the nuts. If you're feeling adventurous, use crushed pecans or walnuts instead of almonds. Each nut gives a unique taste and texture to your dish.
Dietary Adjustments
You can make this recipe gluten-free. Just choose gluten-free almond flour. For a low-carb option, stick with the almond crust and skip the breadcrumbs. If you're dairy-free, use a dairy-free mustard. This keeps the flavor while fitting your dietary needs. These simple swaps ensure everyone can enjoy this dish.
Serving Style Variations
There are many ways to serve these chicken tenders. You can wrap them in a tortilla with fresh veggies. This makes a tasty lunch or snack. Another option is to slice the tenders and toss them in a salad. They add protein and crunch. Pair the tenders with sides like roasted veggies or sweet potato fries. Dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch complement the flavors perfectly.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your almond crusted chicken tenders fresh, follow these steps:
- In the refrigerator: Place cooked tenders in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps them tasty. Store them for up to four days.
- Freezing options: If you want to keep them longer, freeze the tenders. Lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This method helps avoid freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to three months.
Reheating Recommendations
When it's time to enjoy your chicken tenders again, you have two good options:
- Oven vs. microwave: The oven is best for reheating. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the tenders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps them crispy. The microwave works too, but it may make them soggy. If you use the microwave, heat them in short bursts.
- Tips for maintaining texture: To keep the crust crunchy, cover the tenders loosely with foil in the oven. This allows steam to escape, keeping your meal crispy.
Shelf Life
Knowing how long your chicken tenders last is key:
- Typical shelf life in the fridge: When stored properly, these tenders last up to four days in the fridge.
- Signs that the tenders are no longer good: Watch for any off smells, changes in color, or a slimy texture. If you see any of these signs, it’s best to discard them. Always trust your senses to stay safe!
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Cut them into strips that are about the same size as tenders. This ensures even cooking. The cooking time may increase slightly since breasts are thicker. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
What can I serve with almond-crusted chicken tenders?
You have many tasty options! Try these sides:
- Steamed broccoli for a healthy crunch.
- Sweet potato fries for a sweet touch.
- A fresh garden salad for a light bite.
- Quinoa for a nutty flavor that pairs well.
These sides make your meal balanced and filling. They also add color to your plate.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken tenders ahead of time. Keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. If you want to store them longer, freeze the coated tenders. This way, you can enjoy them later. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking. This will help them cook evenly. Meal prep makes busy weeks easier!
This blog post showed you how to make almond-crusted chicken tenders. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and tips for perfecting your dish. I shared variations to fit different diets and storage advice to keep your meal fresh. Remember, these tenders are not only tasty but also quick to prepare. Enjoy trying new flavors and serving ideas. Each step gives you a chance to impress yourself and others. Happy cooking!