Crunchy Almond Chicken
Crunchy Almond Chicken features tender chicken coated with a flavorful almond mixture, toasted to golden perfection. The combination of slivered almonds, garlic, and ginger imparts a nutty, aromatic taste that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Perfect for those who enjoy crispy, savory poultry with a gourmet twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place almonds, garlic, and ginger root in a blender container. Cover and blend until finely ground.
- Mix the ground almond mixture with salt, paprika, cumin, and pepper.
- Dip chicken pieces into melted margarine or butter, then roll in the almond mixture to coat evenly.
- Place the coated chicken, skin side up, in an ungreased 13 x 9 x 2-inch oblong pan.
- Bake uncovered in a 375°F oven until the chicken is cooked through and thickest pieces are done, about 55 to 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, consider toasting the slivered almonds before blending for a nuttier flavor. If you need a substitution, you can replace margarine with olive oil or ghee. Ensure the chicken pieces are of even size for consistent cooking; consider using skinless chicken for a lighter version. Check out other American recipes for additional inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Crunchy Almond Chicken alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Baked Chicken With Mushrooms for a heartier dinner. For a complete spread, consider offering crusty bread to soak up any juices and a light vinaigrette to dress the salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Crunchy Almond Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This will help retain its crunchy coating while ensuring the chicken remains juicy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Almond Chicken contains roughly 172 calories, with 9g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (152% of the Daily Value), calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1235mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole almonds instead of slivered?
Yes, you can use whole almonds, but you may need to adjust the blending time to ensure they are finely ground. Just make sure to monitor the texture, as it should be similar to a coarse flour consistency for optimal coating.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish goes well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a simple quinoa salad. For a comforting option, try pairing it with Chicken Broccoli Hot Dish for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Crunchy Almond Chicken is great for meal prep. You can prepare and coat the chicken a day in advance, then bake it just before serving. It retains its flavor and crunch, making it an excellent choice for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).