Perfectly Almond-Coated Chicken: A Flavorful Comfort Food Recipe

Chicken coated in a crispy almond crust is a simple yet delightful recipe that satisfies both your taste buds and waistline. This dish provides the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors without being overly heavy or greasy.

Ingredients Required for Almond-Coated Chicken

• 1 cup slivered almonds (preferably toasted for extra flavor)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon sugar, optional, depending on your preference
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)
• 4 chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking oil for shallow frying

To begin, mix the almonds with flour, cornstarch, sugar, and your choice of optional seed. Coat each piece of chicken in this mixture, ensuring it’s evenly covered on both sides.

Preparation Instructions for Almond-Coated Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Shallow fry the chicken in hot oil until golden brown.
3. Once done, transfer them into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked through. Internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).

Nutritional Value Per Serving

This recipe serves four people, with each serving containing approximately:

• Calories: ~280 kcal per piece
• Fat: ~15g
• Protein: ~24g
• Sodium: ~297mg (if using salt)
• Potassium: ~365mg
• Dietary Fiber: ~2g

Tips for Perfect Almond-Coated Chicken

For extra flavor and crunch, consider toasting the almonds before adding them to your mixture. Toaster ovens or a pan over medium heat work well.

• To prevent sticking during baking, use parchment paper on your trays.
• Adjust seasoning according to taste preferences; some like it with added salt while others prefer sweetness from sugar.

Health Benefits of Almond-Coated Chicken

The almonds in this recipe offer several health benefits:

• Nutrient Dense: High in protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins like vitamin E which is essential for skin and eye health.
• Heart Health: Almonds are rich in potassium, magnesium, and fiber which help lower cholesterol levels and maintain heart health.

Variations of Almond-Coated Chicken

This versatile dish can be made with different types of meats or even vegetables. Try it with:

• Chicken thighs for a richer flavor
• Shrimp for seafood lovers
• Cauliflower florets for a vegetarian version

Dessert Variation

If you have any leftovers, consider turning them into dessert! Coat some fresh fruit in the same almond mixture and bake until soft. Serve with honey or melted chocolate for an extra treat.

Conclusion of Almond-Coated Chicken Recipe Article

This simple recipe showcases how delicious and easy it can be to create a nutritious meal using common ingredients found at most grocery stores. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special for the family, almond-coated chicken fits the bill perfectly.