Baked Chicken Tenders with Low Carb Ingredients

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These baked chicken tenders are crispy, juicy, and completely guilt-free thanks to their low carb makeover. Perfectly seasoned and oven-baked until golden, they offer the crunch you love without the deep-frying. If you’re trying to eat clean but still crave comforting flavors, this dish hits all the right notes.

Whether you’re following a low carb diet, keto, or simply want a lighter dinner idea, these tenders are ideal for busy weeknights, lunch prep, or family-friendly meals. Made with simple ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a no-fuss recipe you’ll find yourself making over and over.

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Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken Tenders with Low Carb Ingredients

These chicken tenders check every box: they’re juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and full of bold flavor. By swapping out traditional breadcrumbs with a low carb coating, they’re perfect for anyone watching their carbs without sacrificing taste.

They’re also kid-approved, freezer-friendly, and super versatile—pair them with salads, veggies, or your favorite dipping sauces.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for This Recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken tenders or chicken breasts sliced into strips work perfectly for this dish. Opt for fresh, not frozen, for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen chicken, make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry to ensure a crispier coating.

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Ingredients for the Baked Chicken Tenders with Low Carb Ingredients

To make these crispy yet low-carb tenders, every ingredient plays a role in adding texture and flavor without the extra carbs. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Tenders or Breast Strips – The star of the dish, providing lean protein and a tender bite.
• Almond Flour – A great low-carb substitute for traditional flour, adding a mild nuttiness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Boosts flavor and crisps up beautifully during baking.
• Eggs – Help the coating stick to the chicken and keep everything intact.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth and savory flavor.
• Paprika – Brings color and a subtle smoky taste.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh Parsley (optional) – For a touch of color and freshness after baking.

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How To Make the Baked Chicken Tenders with Low Carb Ingredients

Follow these easy steps for crispy, juicy tenders every time:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Pat your chicken dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better. If you’re using chicken breasts, slice them into even strips.

Step 2: Set Up a Breading Station

In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In another, mix together the almond flour, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then dredge it in the almond flour and Parmesan blend. Press gently to ensure an even coating.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the coated tenders on a baking tray lined with parchment or foil. Lightly spray with oil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Bake until golden and cooked through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the hot tenders and serve immediately with your favorite low-carb dipping sauce.

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How to Serve and Store These Baked Chicken Tenders

This recipe makes enough to serve 4 people generously, making it great for family dinners or weekly meal prep. The baked chicken tenders are best served hot and crispy right out of the oven but are just as enjoyable the next day.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 8–10 minutes to restore their crispiness.

If you want to freeze them, arrange the cooked tenders on a tray to flash freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

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What to Serve With Baked Chicken Tenders?

🥗 Side Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

A light and zesty salad balances the richness of the chicken.

🥦 Roasted Broccoli or Cauliflower

Low in carbs and high in flavor, roasted veggies are a perfect pairing.

🥒 Cucumber Yogurt Dip

Cool, creamy, and refreshing—great for dipping.

🍠 Baked Sweet Potato Fries (if not strictly low-carb)

A slightly sweet side that pairs well with savory tenders.

🧄 Garlic Green Beans

Simple, garlicky green beans add color and crunch.

🥬 Cauliflower Rice

For a complete low-carb meal, this is a perfect alternative to traditional rice.

🥚 Deviled Eggs

Especially if you’re doing keto, deviled eggs are a creamy, protein-packed side.

🧀 Cheese-Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers

Colorful and crunchy with a creamy cheese filling—they make the meal more exciting.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these chicken tenders in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F and cook the tenders in a single layer for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll get an even crispier texture.

2. What can I use instead of almond flour?
If you’re not concerned about staying low carb, crushed pork rinds or coconut flour are both good alternatives. Pork rinds keep it low carb and give an ultra-crispy bite.

3. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F. The coating should be golden brown and the juices should run clear when cut.

4. Can I marinate the chicken before breading?
Yes! A short marinade in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs adds an extra layer of flavor, but make sure to pat the chicken dry before breading to help the coating stick.

5. Are these tenders good for meal prep?
Definitely. You can cook a batch ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you try it in the air fryer or stick to baking? Did you go classic or add your own spice blend?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are always welcome—let’s make cooking simple and fun together.

Explore beautifully curated low-carb and keto-friendly meal ideas on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to meals that fit your lifestyle.

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Conclusion

These Baked Chicken Tenders with Low Carb Ingredients are the kind of recipe that makes healthy eating feel indulgent. With a crispy crust, juicy center, and bold seasoning, they’re a go-to for busy weeknights or meal prep success.

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