Crispy Almond Flour Chicken Tenders (Easy Keto & Gluten-Free Recipe!)

Craving that crunchy, golden goodness of fried chicken—without blowing your keto goals? These Crispy Almond Flour Chicken Tenders are about to become your new favorite comfort food. They’re low-carb, gluten-free, and packed with savory flavor in every bite. Perfect for picky kids, hungry husbands, and busy mamas who need dinner on the table fast.

Let’s be honest—chicken tenders are one of life’s little joys. But traditional versions are breaded in carb-loaded flour or panko. Not anymore! With a few keto swaps, we’re keeping that crunchy outside and juicy inside you love—minus the guilt.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, packing a keto-friendly lunch, or just in desperate need of a drive-thru alternative you can make at home—this recipe is here to save dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a few pantry staples to make these chicken tenders keto and totally crave-worthy:

• 1 lb chicken tenders (or slice chicken breasts into strips)

• 1 cup almond flour

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tbsp heavy cream

• Avocado oil or olive oil for frying

Optional for extra crunch:
Add 1–2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese to the almond flour mix.

How to Make Crispy Keto Chicken Tenders

Click Here for How to Video

These almond flour chicken tenders are super easy and ready in under 30 minutes!

Step 1: Prep Your Breading Stations

In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and heavy cream.
In another bowl, mix the almond flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then dredge it in the seasoned almond flour. Press gently so the coating sticks well.

Step 3: Pan-Fry to Perfection

Heat about ¼ inch of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place chicken tenders in the pan (don’t overcrowd!).
Fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F).

Step 4: Drain and Serve

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Let them rest for 2–3 minutes so the coating stays crispy.

Air Fryer Instructions (Optional)

Want to skip the oil? These almond flour chicken tenders also cook beautifully in the air fryer!

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.

2. Spray tenders lightly with avocado oil spray.

3. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. They’re done when crispy and cooked through.

Keto Tip: Keep That Coating Crisp

If you're meal prepping or storing leftovers, reheat in the air fryer or oven to bring back the crunch! Microwave = soggy coating (no thanks).

Dipping Sauce Ideas (All Low Carb!)

These tenders are delicious on their own, but even better with a dip. Try:

• Homemade Ranch (mix mayo, sour cream, garlic powder, dill, and salt)

• Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce

• Buffalo Mayo (mayo + hot sauce)

• Avocado Ranch

• Garlic Aioli

What to Serve with Keto Chicken Tenders

Need a full low-carb meal? Pair these tenders with:

• Cauliflower Mac & Cheese

• Zucchini Fries

• Keto Coleslaw

• Side Salad with Ranch

• Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus

Make It Your Own

• Swap the almond flour with crushed pork rinds for extra crunch

• Use chicken thighs for juicier tenders

• Add cayenne or chipotle powder for spicy kick

• Make it dairy-free by skipping the cream

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze cooked tenders in a single layer, then store in a bag up to 3 months.

• To Reheat: Bake at 375°F or air fry for 5–8 minutes until crispy.

Nutrition Facts (Per 2 tenders – Approximate)

• Calories: 310

• Fat: 24g

• Protein: 25g

• Total Carbs: 5g

• Fiber: 2g

• Net Carbs: 3g

Note: Macros may vary depending on your almond flour and oil type.

Why You’ll Love These Keto Chicken Tenders

✅ Super crispy without breadcrumbs
✅ Family-friendly and kid-approved
✅ No gluten, no sugar, no guilt
✅ Great for keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diets
✅ Freezer-friendly and perfect for batch cooking

Real Talk: Keto Doesn’t Have to Mean Boring

I hear it all the time—“I miss crispy, crunchy food on keto!” Well friend, not anymore.

These almond flour chicken tenders are a game-changer. You get the crunch you’re craving with none of the carbs that slow you down. Plus, they’re easy enough for a weeknight dinner and classy enough for keto meal prep on your Sunday reset.

If you try these, tag me @KetoWithMe or drop a comment below—I'd love to hear how yours turn out!

Pin This Recipe for Later!

Don’t forget to save this recipe to your Keto Dinner board on Pinterest so you always have a go-to crunchy chicken fix!

📎 Pin Title:
Crispy Almond Flour Chicken Tenders (Keto, Gluten-Free & Family Friendly!)

📎 Pin Description:
Crunchy, golden, and juicy—these almond flour chicken tenders are a keto-friendly dream! Easy to make, gluten-free, and perfect for meal prep or kid-approved dinners. #keto #chickentenders #lowcarbrecipes #glutenfree #ketofood #ketodinner

Let’s Chat!

Have a favorite keto dip you swear by? Tried this with pork rinds or in the air fryer? Share your tips in the comments! Let’s keep inspiring each other to stick with this keto life—without sacrificing the flavor.