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Crispy Low Carb Chicken Tenders – Simple, Crunchy, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk
  • 3/4 cup finely crushed pork rinds
  • 1/2 cup blanched almond flour
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Avocado oil spray or 2 tablespoons melted butter/ghee for brushing
  • Lemon wedges and your favorite low-carb dipping sauce (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the pan and oven. Heat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment and set a wire rack on top if you have one. Lightly oil the rack for extra crispness.
  2. Pat the chicken dry. Use paper towels to remove surface moisture. This helps the coating stick and crisp.
  3. Whisk the egg wash. In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs with the heavy cream until smooth.
  4. Mix the dry coating. In a separate bowl, combine crushed pork rinds, almond flour, Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to distribute the seasoning evenly.
  5. Coat the chicken. Dip each tender in the egg wash, letting the excess drip off. Press into the dry coating, turning to cover. Gently shake off loose crumbs so the crust isn’t too thick.
  6. Arrange and oil. Place tenders on the rack or parchment. Spray lightly with avocado oil or brush with melted butter. This helps browning and crunch.
  7. Bake to golden perfection. Bake 12–15 minutes, flipping once halfway. Tenders are done when they’re golden and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Optional: quick broil. For extra crunch, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.
  9. Rest and serve. Let the tenders rest for 3 minutes to set the crust. Finish with a squeeze of lemon and serve with low-carb ranch, sugar-free BBQ, or a spicy mayo.