Baked Paleo Chicken Tenders Recipe

There is something truly magical about the perfect combination of crispy and tender in a chicken dish, and the Baked Paleo Chicken Tenders Recipe delivers exactly that. Coated in a flavorful almond flour crust and baked to a golden finish, these tenders offer a delightful crunch with every bite while remaining juicy and tender inside. Whether you’re following a paleo lifestyle, looking for a gluten-free option, or simply craving a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, this recipe hits all the marks with ease and taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in these chicken tenders. Each element enhances the dish, from the subtle smokiness of paprika to the satisfying crunch of almond flour.

• 1 lb chicken tenders: Choose fresh, evenly sized tenders for consistent cooking and tenderness.
• 1 cup almond flour: This gluten-free alternative provides a crispy coating with a subtle nutty flavor.
• ½ tsp paprika: Adds a gentle smoky warmth and beautiful color to the crust.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: Infuses the coating with savory depth without overpowering the chicken.
• ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors to create a well-rounded taste.
• 1 egg, beaten: Acts as the perfect binder to help the almond flour mixture stick to the chicken.
• Olive oil spray: Helps develop a golden, crispy surface during baking without excess fat.

How to Make Baked Paleo Chicken Tenders Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This high heat is perfect for achieving that irresistible golden crispiness on the outside while keeping the chicken juicy inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Almond Flour Coating

In a shallow dish, combine the almond flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Mixing the spices evenly into the flour ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Dip each chicken tender into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then press each piece into the almond flour mixture, coating thoroughly on all sides so the flour forms a nice crust.

Step 4: Arrange for Baking

Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray each tender with olive oil for that golden finish and to promote crispiness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the chicken tenders for 20 to 22 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on that beautiful golden color developing. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and the crust is delightfully crisp.

How to Serve Baked Paleo Chicken Tenders Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives sprinkled over the tenders add a lovely burst of color and a hint of freshness to balance the rich crust. A wedge of lemon on the side can brighten the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair these tenders with a crisp side salad or roasted veggies to keep the meal light and nutrient-dense. Mashed sweet potatoes or cauliflower rice also complement the paleo theme while adding satisfying textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these chicken tenders as a fun finger-food appetizer with paleo-friendly dipping sauces such as ranch or honey mustard. You can even slice them and layer on a paleo grain-free wrap with fresh greens for a delicious handheld meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken tenders store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled helps maintain their texture and flavor for easy meals later in the week.

Freezing

If making ahead for busy days, place the cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer bag. This method prevents sticking and keeps the coating intact—store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the tenders in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 10 minutes. This quickly restores their crispiness without drying them out, unlike microwaving which can turn the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Just slice chicken breasts into strips about the size of tenders. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on thickness, so keep an eye on them while baking.

Is almond flour the only option for the coating?

Almond flour is ideal for this paleo-friendly recipe, but if you need a nut-free substitute, crushed pork rinds or coconut flour can work as alternatives, though texture and flavor will differ slightly.

Can I add other spices to the coating?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin, chili powder, or dried herbs to customize the flavor profile to your liking while keeping the recipe simple.

What dipping sauces go well with this recipe?

Paleo ranch, honey mustard, or a simple avocado lime dip complement these tenders perfectly, adding moisture and flavor without compromising the paleo guidelines.

Is there an air fryer method for this recipe?

Yes! You can air fry the coated tenders at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway. This method yields a similarly crispy and tender result with less oven time.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give this Baked Paleo Chicken Tenders Recipe a try soon. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy irresistible crispy chicken without the guilt, packed with flavor and simplicity. Whenever I prepare this dish, it feels like sharing a little crispy happiness with everyone around. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how quickly it disappears from the table!

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