The Almond Breaded Chicken Goodness: A Crispy, Crunchy Twist

The History and Origins of Breaded Chicken Dishes

Breading and frying chicken has long been a global cooking technique dating back hundreds of years. References to early versions of breaded chicken appear in ancient Roman and medieval European texts. English-style battered fish was likely adapted into chicken recipes.

In the American South, fried chicken emerged in the 1800s. The use of breadcrumbs and flour created a crispy coating. The popular Southern Sunday tradition of fried chicken dinner was often enhanced by creative cooks using things like ground nuts in the breading.

The Rising Popularity of Almond Breaded Chicken

Over the past decade, almond breading has become a popular alternative for fried chicken. Its crunch and texture along with flavor from toasted almonds makes it a hit. The subtly sweet and nutty taste combined with health benefits has made almond chicken a favorite recipe for home cooks and restaurants.

Benefits of Almond Breadcrumb Breading

Using almond meal or finely ground almonds as a breading for chicken provides several benefits:

Crunch

- Toasted, finely ground almonds provide a satisfying crunch.

Flavor

- Nutty, subtly sweet taste comes through.

Added Nutrition

- Almonds provide protein, healthy fats, and vitamin E.

Gluten-Free

- Almond breading allows gluten-free fried chicken.

Choosing the Best Chicken for Almond Breadcrumbs

While any chicken works well, here are some tips:

Cuts

- Breasts, tenders, thighs, drumsticks all work great.

Boneless or Bone-In

- Use boneless cuts for easier eating or bone-in for more flavor.

Skin-On or Skinless

- Skin-on has more crispiness, skinless is lower fat.

Step-by-Step Almond Breaded Chicken Recipe

Here is an easy recipe to make almond breaded chicken at home:

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken pieces
• 1 cup almond flour
• 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. In one bowl, mix almond flour, Parmesan, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In another bowl, beat egg.
3. Dip chicken pieces in egg then dredge through almond mixture to coat.
4. Fry chicken in oiled skillet over medium heat 3-5 minutes per side.
5. Drain on paper towel. Serve warm.

Cooking and Serving Tips

Use these tips for flavorful, tender almond breaded chicken:

• Let chicken come to room temp before breading for better adherence.
• Toast almonds and grind into fine crumbs for crunchier coating.
• Fry in olive or avocado oil for added flavor.
• Use a thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally.
• Let chicken rest 5 minutes after frying before slicing for juicier meat.

Serve almond chicken alone, over greens, with roasted veggies, or in sandwiches. The uses are endless!

Conclusion

Trading breadcrumbs for almond meal is an easy way to transform basic fried chicken into a gourmet, gluten-free dish. Each bite of almond breaded chicken imparts a satisfying crunch and nutty sweetness. This clever take on a classic is sure to be a hit.

FAQs

Can you use other nut flours like cashew?

Yes, you can substitute finely ground cashews, walnuts, pecans or a nut blend for the almond flour.

Is almond chicken also paleo friendly?

Yes, almond flour chicken is paleo as long as you avoid modern pantry staples like soybean oil.

Can you bake almond breaded chicken instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400F 15-20 minutes until cooked through and crispy.

How long does almond breaded chicken keep in the fridge?

Store fully cooled fried chicken covered in the fridge 3-4 days.

Can you use chicken breast instead of tenders?

Yes, boneless skinless breasts pounded thin work great. Adjust cook times.

With its satisfying crunch and dynamic flavor, almond breaded chicken is sure to be a hit! Enjoy this gluten-free twist on a familiar favorite.