Easy 20-Minute Low-Carb Crunchy Chicken Tenders

DIPPING A LOW CARB CHICKEN TENDER IN BUFFALO SAUCE

Easy 20-Minute Low-Carb Crunchy Chicken Tenders – No Grains

These golden, grain-free chicken tenders feature a triple-threat breading of almond flour, parmesan, and crushed pork rinds for the ultimate crunch. I love how they stay juicy on the inside while delivering that classic fried chicken snap in just 20 minutes. It is my favorite quick keto dinner for busy weeknights when I want comfort food without the carb count.

Prep Time10

Cook Time20

Total Time30

Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: 30 Minute Keto Dinner, Almond Flour Chicken Tenders, Best Keto Breading for Chicken, Crispy Keto Chicken Recipe, Easy Weeknight Keto Meals, Grain Free Chicken Tenders, Healthy Kid Friendly Keto, Keto Breaded Chicken Strips, Low Carb Chicken Tenders, Pork Rind Crusted Chicken

Servings: servings

Calories: 325kcal

Author: George - U Keep Cooking

Equipment

Ninja Air Fryer

Ingredients

1 lb chicken tenders (patted very dry)
¾ cup almond flour
¼ cup parmesan cheese (finely grated)(this is the secret for crispiness)
½ cup pork rinds (ground)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika (smoked if you have it)
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

Egg Wash:

1 egg (beaten)
1 tbsp heavy whipping cream or water — both work

For Cooking:

Avocado oil olive oil, or butter (don’t be shy)

Instructions

Prep the chicken: Pat chicken completely dry. This matters for crispiness.
Mix coating: In a shallow bowl, combine almond flour, parmesan, and all seasonings.
Egg wash: Whisk egg and cream until smooth.
Coat: Dip chicken into egg → press firmly into almond mixture.

Cook (pick one)

Pan-Fried (crispiest): Heat oil over medium heat Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through Don’t overcrowd the pan.
Air Fryer: Spray tenders lightly with oil. Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Oven: Bake at 425°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping once. Place on a wire rack for airflow.

Nutrition