Perfectly Almond-Packed Baked Chicken

Baking chicken with a generous almond crust is an effortless yet impressive way to elevate your meal's flavor and texture. This recipe ensures that the almonds are toasted just right, creating a crunchy topping over tender, juicy chicken breasts. Almonds bring not only a delightful crunch but also healthy fats and antioxidants which add value to this dish. The cooking time for this recipe is approximately 35 minutes, and it serves four people comfortably. Let's dive into the steps of preparing your flavorful and visually appealing Chicken with Almond Crust.

Ingredients

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 16 oz total)
3/4 cup finely ground almonds
3 tablespoons melted butter
2 teaspoons lemon zest
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil, which is optional but recommended if you want easy cleanup.
Season the chicken breasts on both sides generously with salt and pepper. Set them aside while you prepare the almond mixture.
In a large bowl, combine the finely ground almonds, melted butter, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly mixed.
Evenly coat each chicken breast by dipping both sides in the almond mixture. Pat extra crumbs onto the breasts to ensure an even coating.
Lay the seasoned chicken on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overlapping. Bake for 30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
After removing from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired. Let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Tips and Variations

Add a drizzle of olive oil on top during baking for extra moisture.
For a richer flavor, use unsalted butter. It enhances the natural taste of almonds.
If you prefer less salt, reduce the amount or omit it altogether for a more savory experience.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

The nutritional value can vary depending on the size and type of chicken used as well as the portion of almonds. On average:

Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving, including fats and proteins.
Proteins: Around 26-28 grams per serving.
Fats: About 17-19 grams of which include healthy unsaturated fats from almonds.

Eating Tips

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a simple side salad for an easy and balanced meal. For a more robust flavor, consider serving it alongside a creamy sauce like béchamel or hollandaise. This recipe is also great when you want to have leftovers; store them in the fridge within two days of baking.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken with Almond Crust is not only delicious but also versatile enough for different occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to special family gatherings. Its preparation is straightforward and yields fantastic results every time. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is sure to impress both the palate and appearance of those around the table.

Enjoy your perfectly almond-packed baked chicken, and feel free to experiment with it by adding new ingredients like herbs or spices for added zest!