Perfectly Almond-Coated Chicken for a Quick Weeknight Dinner

Cooking a quick yet delicious meal is often the goal of busy weeknights. With the right recipe, you can enjoy a simple yet satisfying dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a healthy and balanced dinner option. This article will guide you through creating Almond-Coated Chicken, a versatile dish that is both quick to prepare and packed with flavor.

The preparation of Almond-Coated Chicken involves a few simple steps, making it an ideal choice for those looking to save time while still enjoying a high-quality meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup slivered almonds (unsalted)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients Overview

The main ingredients in this recipe are the chicken breasts, which are marinated in a mixture of spices and nuts before being grilled or baked. The almonds add both texture and flavor to the dish, while olive oil is used for added richness. Garlic powder and paprika contribute to the overall taste profile.

Steps to Prepare Almond-Coated Chicken

The cooking process begins by preparing the almond coating. Preheat your oven to 400°F or heat up a grill to medium-high. In a shallow bowl, combine all ingredients except for the chicken breasts and almonds: olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Evenly coat both sides of each chicken breast with the almond slivers by pressing them onto one side first before flipping over to press the other side as well. This ensures that all parts of the chicken are evenly coated.
Cook your chicken in the oven for about 20 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, or cook on the grill for approximately 8-10 minutes per side depending on how crispy you prefer them.

Tips and Variations

For a quicker cooking time, consider using a skillet with some added olive oil instead of grilling or baking. Additionally, you could try adding other spices such as cumin or chili powder for an extra kick to your dish.

To serve, place the chicken on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired. Serve immediately so that everyone can enjoy their meal at its best temperature. This recipe serves four people quite comfortably; each person should have two pieces of chicken breast.

Conclusion

Almond-Coated Chicken is an excellent choice for those seeking a simple yet flavorful dinner option. Its preparation doesn't require extensive skills, making it accessible to even beginners in the kitchen. By following these straightforward instructions and tips provided here, you can prepare this delicious meal at home with ease.

Cooking Time & Servings

This recipe requires approximately 25 minutes of active cooking time (including preparation) but allows for a total cooking duration ranging from about 10 minutes on the grill up to 40 minutes in an oven. It serves four individuals, providing each with two pieces of chicken.

Enjoy your meal and experiment with different flavors by adding more spices or varying the type of nuts used. Happy cooking!