If you're on the hunt for a mouthwatering dish that’s both crispy and low-carb, look no further than these Pork Rind Crusted Chicken Tenders! Imagine tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a crunchy, flavorful coating that’s not only delicious but also guilt-free. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these irresistible tenders that are perfect for dinner, game day snacking, or even a quick lunch. Ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your family? Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful recipe that will keep you coming back for more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Low Carb
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 2 cups crushed pork rinds
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better.
- In a shallow bowl, crush the pork rinds into fine, even crumbs using a rolling pin or food processor. Aim for a breadcrumb-like consistency.
- In another shallow bowl, combine the crushed pork rinds, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Beat the eggs in a separate shallow bowl until well combined.
- Create a breading station: Place the chicken tenders, egg wash, and pork rind mixture in separate bowls in order.
- Dip each chicken tender first into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then coat completely in the pork rind mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
- Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each tender for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the crust to set and juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot with your favorite low-carb dipping sauce, such as ranch, sriracha mayo, or sugar-free ketchup.
Tips
- Prep Your Ingredients: Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and tools. This makes the process smoother and ensures you don’t miss any steps.
- Dry the Chicken: Patting the chicken tenders dry is crucial. It helps the egg wash and pork rind coating stick better, resulting in a crunchier texture.
- Crush the Pork Rinds: For the best texture, crush the pork rinds until they resemble breadcrumbs. A food processor can make this task quick and easy, but a rolling pin works just as well.
- Create a Breading Station: Set up your breading station with the chicken, egg wash, and pork rind mixture in a line. This organized approach speeds up the process and keeps your workspace tidy.
- Don’t Rush the Baking: Bake the chicken tenders until they are golden brown and cooked through. Turning them halfway ensures even cooking and a perfect crust.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the crust set and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Pair with Dipping Sauces: Elevate your meal by serving these tenders with your favorite low-carb dipping sauces, like ranch or sriracha mayo, for an extra kick of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 140mg
