Almond Breaded Chicken Goodness
Category: Poultry Recipes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Serving Size: 3 servings
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast, boneless and skinless | 2 large pieces |
| Lemon juice | ⅓ cup |
| Seasoned almond meal | 1 ½ cups |
| Coconut oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon pepper, to taste | As needed |
| Parsley, for decoration | As desired |
Directions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by slicing the chicken breasts in half, creating thinner slices for easier cooking. - Pound to Desired Thickness:
Lay each chicken half flat and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken until it’s about ¼ inch thick, ensuring even cooking. - Prepare the Pan:
Place a frying pan over medium heat and add the coconut oil. Allow the oil to heat up before proceeding with the chicken. - Soak in Lemon Juice:
Dip each chicken slice into the fresh lemon juice and let it sit for about 2 minutes on one side. This step infuses the chicken with a tangy zest. - Flip the Chicken:
After 2 minutes, flip the chicken slices over and let the other side soak for another 2 minutes. - Coat with Almond Meal:
Transfer the soaked chicken slices into the seasoned almond meal. Coat both sides thoroughly, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well. - Fry the Chicken:
Add the coated chicken slices to the hot oil in the pan. Fry each side for approximately 4 minutes, or until the coating is golden and crispy. Be sure to sprinkle lemon pepper liberally over each side as they cook for an added burst of flavor. - Rest and Repeat:
Once fried, transfer the chicken slices to a paper-lined sheet to absorb any excess oil. Repeat the process until all the chicken slices are cooked. - Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the chicken with fresh parsley for a vibrant, decorative touch. Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 325 kcal |
| Total Fat | 24.0 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 3.0 grams |
| Protein | 16.0 grams |
Allergen Information:
This recipe contains nuts (almonds) from the almond meal, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to tree nuts. Be sure to inform your guests about the presence of these allergens.
Dietary Preferences:
- Gluten-Free: The almond meal serves as a gluten-free alternative to breadcrumbs.
- Low-Carb: This recipe is a great option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet, thanks to the use of almond meal instead of traditional flour.
- Dairy-Free: No dairy ingredients are used in this recipe, making it suitable for those avoiding dairy.
Tips & Advice:
- For Extra Crispiness: If you prefer a crunchier texture, consider double-coating the chicken. After dipping in lemon juice, dip again in almond meal before frying.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with other seasonings in the almond meal, such as garlic powder, paprika, or even a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Healthy Oil Option: If you want to reduce the fat content, you can substitute the coconut oil with a lighter oil like olive oil or avocado oil, though the flavor profile may change slightly.
Conclusion:
This Almond Breaded Chicken Goodness is a perfect combination of crispy texture and zesty flavor, making it an ideal meal for any occasion. The almond meal crust offers a deliciously nutty taste, while the lemon juice and lemon pepper bring a refreshing citrusy zing. Serve it as a stand-alone dish or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends and family, this recipe promises a delightful, healthy, and satisfying experience.
