Crispy Low-Carb Chicken Tenders with Parmesan Crust

Low carb cripsy chicken tenders with parsley garnished on top
egg, buttermilk, and spices in a bowl
Raw chicken in buttermilk
chicken tenders marinating in buttermilk

These Low Carb Crispy Chicken Tenders are a family favorite—crispy, flavorful, and simple to make. I tested this with very picky eaters and it was a hit. Using almond flour gives the tenders a satisfyingly crunchy coating while keeping the carbs low. Try them for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

chicken tenders in almond flour
almond flour coated chicken tenders

Low Carb Crispy Tenders Recipe

Serves 6

Ingredients

  • 8 oz chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt, divided
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper, divided
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon parsley flakes
  • 4 cups olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl whisk together the heavy cream, egg, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and the chili powder.
  2. Add the chicken tenderloins to the bowl, toss to coat, and let them marinate for about 15 minutes.
  3. On a separate plate combine the almond flour with the remaining seasonings: 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and parsley flakes.
  4. One at a time, dredge the marinated chicken in the almond flour mixture so each piece is well coated.
  5. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. When the oil reaches about 375°F (190°C) or is hot enough that a small bit of coating sizzles immediately, carefully add the tenders in a single layer.
  6. Fry the tenders for about 6 minutes total, turning as needed, until they are cooked through and golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  7. Transfer cooked tenders to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain briefly before serving.

Nutrition

Serves 6 — Calories: 311; Total Carbs: 2.4g; Fiber: 0.8g; Net Carbs: 1.6g; Sugars: 0.5g; Fat: 18.2g; Protein: 32.1g

crispy low carb chicken tenders on a wire rack

These tenders come out perfectly crispy with a great golden crust. Serve them hot with your favorite low-carb dipping sauce or a simple side salad for a satisfying meal.

Low Carb Crispy Chicken Tenders

Crispy Low Carb Chicken Tenders

Crispy low carb chicken tenders made in just minutes.
Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 6 mins
Total Time 26 mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 chicken tenders
Calories 311 kcal

Ingredients

  • 8 oz chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt divided
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper divided
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon parsley flakes
  • 4 cups olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

  • Whisk together the heavy cream, egg, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and the chili powder in a large bowl.
  • Add the chicken, toss to coat, and let it marinate for 15 minutes.
  • Combine the almond flour with the remaining seasonings in a separate bowl or plate.
  • Coat each chicken tender in the almond flour mixture until well covered.
  • Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high. When oil is hot (about 375°F), fry the tenders for about 6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Drain briefly before serving.

Nutrition facts are provided as a courtesy.