As soon as these come out of the oven, the whole tray disappears before I can even take a bite.

 There's something timeless about a good chicken tender, isn't there? Growing up in the heart of the Midwest, chicken tenders were a staple at family gatherings and potlucks. This recipe takes a beloved classic and gives it a modern twist by making it low carb, perfect for those who are mindful of their carbohydrate intake. The secret to achieving that irresistible crispy coating without traditional breadcrumbs lies in using almond flour and Parmesan cheese. It's a dish that brings together the comfort of home-cooked meals with a nod to contemporary dietary preferences.

These crispy baked chicken tenders pair beautifully with a fresh garden salad, perhaps with a tangy vinaigrette to complement the savory flavors of the chicken. For a heartier meal, consider serving them alongside roasted vegetables or a creamy cauliflower mash. And don't forget a side of homemade ranch or honey mustard for dipping, which adds a delightful touch to each bite.

Low Carb Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Servings: 4

Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenders

1 cup almond flour

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

2 large eggs

2 tablespoons water

Cooking spray or olive oil

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a shallow bowl, combine the almond flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until well combined.

Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.

Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Variations & Tips

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the almond flour mixture. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor. If you prefer a nut-free version, try using crushed pork rinds instead of almond flour. To make this recipe dairy-free, omit the Parmesan cheese and increase the almond flour by 1/4 cup, adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.