These Crispy Whole30 Chicken Tenders are coated in a flavorful blend of almond meal, coconut flour, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, then pan-fried until golden brown. They’re an easy grain-free alternative to traditional breaded chicken tenders, with a deliciously seasoned coating and juicy chicken inside.
Perfect for a family dinner, casual lunch, or game-day snack, these homemade chicken tenders use simple ingredients and cook in a skillet—no deep fryer required.
Why You’ll Love These Chicken Tenders
- Grain-free coating: Almond meal and coconut flour replace traditional breadcrumbs.
- Crispy and flavorful: Garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper add savory flavor.
- Easy stovetop method: Cook in a skillet with olive oil.
- Family-friendly: Delicious with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Ready in about 40 minutes: Includes preparation and cooking time.
How to Make Whole30 Chicken Tenders
For a delicious grain-free coating, use finely ground Bob’s Red Mill Almond Meal combined with coconut flour, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to give these chicken tenders a flavorful, golden crust.
Start by combining almond meal, coconut flour, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika in a shallow bowl.
Season the chicken tenders lightly with salt and pepper. Beat an egg in a separate bowl, then dip each piece into the egg before coating it thoroughly with the flour and seasoning mixture.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken in batches for approximately three minutes per side, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent the almond coating from burning.
Because chicken tenders vary in thickness, always check that the thickest portion reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy chicken tenders with a Whole30-compatible dipping sauce, such as homemade compliant ketchup or mustard.
For a complete family meal, pair them with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. If you’re not following Whole30, try serving them with Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese or White Cheddar Mac and Cheese.
These homemade chicken tenders are a simple way to enjoy a familiar comfort-food favorite with a grain-free coating.
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Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: :40
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. chicken tenders
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup almond meal
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 –1 teaspoon salt (depending on how salty you like things)
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- oil for frying
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl combine almond meal, coconut flour, garlic powder, salt, pepper & smoked paprika.
- Liberally sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken tenders.
- In a small bowl scramble up 1 egg.
- Dip the chicken tenders in the egg, then roll them around in the breading mixture. Press the mixture all over the chicken and then shake off the excess.
- Place a large skillet over medium high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan. Once oil is hot, add a few tenders and cook for about 3 minutes on each side or until temp reaches 165°F.
- Continue with the rest of the tenders and serve with some paleo ketchup or other dipping sauce of choice!
- Prep Time: :20
- Cook Time: :20
- Category: Entree
- Method: Stove Top