Baked Chicken Tenders with Low Carb Ingredients

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Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and made with wholesome low carb ingredients, these baked chicken tenders are a game-changer for weeknight dinners or party platters. Forget the deep fryer. With just a few pantry staples and a hot oven, you get golden, crunchy chicken tenders that taste indulgent without the carb overload.

This recipe skips traditional breadcrumbs and instead uses clever alternatives that keep the texture crispy while making the tenders keto-friendly. Whether you’re on a low carb lifestyle or just trying to sneak in healthier meals, these chicken tenders are pure comfort food without compromise.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

These chicken tenders are baked, not fried, which means less mess and more health points. The low carb breading crisps up beautifully in the oven, creating that satisfying crunch without needing a deep fryer. They’re kid-approved, freezer-friendly, and can be seasoned a million ways to keep things interesting. Plus, they cook fast, making them perfect for busy nights when takeout is tempting.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the juiciest tenders, boneless skinless chicken tenderloins are ideal. They’re pre-trimmed and uniform in size, so they cook evenly. If you’re working with boneless chicken breasts, just slice them into strips about one inch thick to mimic tenderloins. Try to keep the pieces consistent so they all cook at the same rate.

Ingredients for the Baked Chicken Tenders with Low Carb Ingredients

This recipe leans on pantry-friendly low carb staples that pack in flavor and crunch without relying on traditional flour or breadcrumbs. These ingredients are easy to find and deliver great results while keeping your carbs in check.

• Chicken tenderloins: The star of the dish, these are lean, quick to cook, and perfectly shaped for handheld dipping.
• Almond flour: A fantastic low carb substitute for breadcrumbs, almond flour gives a mild nutty flavor and crisp texture.
• Grated parmesan cheese: Helps create a golden crust and adds a savory boost to the breading.
• Eggs: They act as the binding agent, ensuring the coating sticks to the chicken.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and warmth to the breading mix.
• Garlic powder: For extra savory depth in every bite.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing flavor.
• Black pepper: Offers a gentle kick that balances the richness.

How To Make the Baked Chicken Tenders with Low Carb Ingredients

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and set a wire rack on top if you want extra crispiness.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix together the almond flour, parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken tenderloin first in the egg wash, letting the excess drip off, then coat in the almond-parmesan mixture. Press the coating firmly so it adheres well.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Place the coated tenders on your prepared baking rack or sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden and the internal temp should reach 165°F.

Step 5: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let them rest a few minutes before serving. This helps the coating firm up and prevents burning your fingers while dipping!

How to Serve and Store Baked Chicken Tenders with Low Carb Ingredients

These chicken tenders are a hit hot out of the oven, but they also store beautifully for meal prep or leftovers. A batch of these can feed about 4 people, depending on serving size and sides. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to revive their crunch—the microwave works in a pinch but will soften the coating.

For longer storage, you can freeze them after baking. Let them cool completely, then place on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F until hot and crispy again.

What to Serve With Baked Chicken Tenders?

Classic Dipping Sauces

Think sugar-free ketchup, spicy mustard, low carb BBQ sauce, or a homemade ranch. Dips take these tenders over the top.

Cauliflower Mash

Creamy and buttery, it pairs perfectly and adds a hearty feel without the carbs.

Zucchini Fries

Oven-baked zucchini fries are a fun, crispy side that keep things low carb and full of flavor.

Chopped Veggie Salad

A fresh and colorful salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and avocado balances out the richness of the tenders.

Roasted Broccoli

Tossed with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt, roasted broccoli adds crunch and depth.

Deviled Eggs

For a protein-packed side, deviled eggs offer creaminess and a tangy bite.

Pickles or Pickled Veggies

Their briny sharpness cuts through the richness and complements the savory flavors.

Cheddar Biscuits (Low Carb)

Almond flour cheddar biscuits can turn this meal into comforting southern-style fare while keeping carbs in check.

Want More Chicken Recipes That Keep It Interesting?

If you love these baked chicken tenders with low carb ingredients, here are a few more crave-worthy chicken ideas to explore next:

• Cheesy Chicken Fritters when you’re in the mood for juicy bites packed with cheese.
• Savory Chicken Wraps with Garlic Cream Sauce for a weeknight dinner that feels gourmet.
• Easy Crock Pot Orange Chicken when you need a set-it-and-forget-it meal with a zesty twist.
• Best Chicken and Rice Casserole for a hearty oven-baked comfort food classic.
• Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon if you’re looking to switch proteins but still want rich, bold flavor.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner or low carb board so you can come back to it whenever the craving hits.

And tell me how yours turned out in the comments! Did you make them spicy? Try them in the air fryer? Add a new seasoning twist?

I always love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Let’s share ideas and help each other level up our home cooking!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dishes and daily dinner inspiration on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feel-good meals!

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