Baked Almond Chicken Strips

Baked Almond Chicken Strips: A Weeknight Winner

As a busy working mom, finding quick and healthy dinner options is always a top priority. My kids are picky eaters, and let's be honest, sometimes I'm just too tired to spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I'm so excited to share this recipe for Baked Almond Chicken Strips – it's a lifesaver! Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it's also surprisingly healthy and delicious, a perfect balance of satisfying crunch and lean protein. The whole family loves them, and even my usually hesitant-to-try-new-things toddler asks for seconds!

The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the seasonings to your liking. Feeling adventurous? Try adding some paprika, cayenne pepper, or even a touch of curry powder for a zesty kick! I often swap out the oregano for basil, depending on what's fresh in my garden. The almond coating adds a delightful crunch, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. I typically use pre-ground almonds but freshly ground ones also work and add a wonderful aroma to the house. This dish is light enough to be a stand-alone meal, or easily makes a wonderful addition to a salad or another healthy dish.

This recipe makes for excellent meal prep. I often double or triple the recipe on the weekend, bake them all at once, and store them in the fridge for quick weeknight meals. I just pop them in the oven or microwave for a few minutes and serve. This saves me so much time during those hectic weekday evenings. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious the next day – the flavors have time to meld together and the chicken stays nice and juicy. It's one of those recipes that never fails to impress, whether I’m serving it to my family or bringing it to a potluck. The crunch, the flavor – it's a total winner!

Beyond the ease and deliciousness, what I really appreciate about this recipe is its health factor. It's a great source of lean protein, which is crucial for maintaining energy levels throughout the day. The almond coating adds a healthy dose of good fats and fiber, keeping you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods. And because it’s baked instead of fried, it’s significantly lower in calories and fat, making it a guilt-free indulgence. My kids need healthy options, and I often choose to supplement them with additional vegetables, which adds great flavor to the dish.

The versatility of the chicken strips is also noteworthy. While we often enjoy them as a simple standalone dish, they also make a fantastic addition to salads, pasta dishes, or even as a topping for grain bowls. The possibilities are endless, making it an incredibly versatile addition to my weeknight meal repertoire. I've found that it perfectly pairs with a variety of sauces and sides, allowing me to mix and match to create different flavor profiles each time I make it.

This Baked Almond Chicken Strips recipe has quickly become a staple in my home. It’s the perfect balance of deliciousness, convenience, and health. If you are short on time, but want something easy, flavorful, and healthy – this recipe is an excellent choice for you!

Step-by-step

• Preheat oven to 450 F degrees.
• Line a large baking sheet with unbleached parchment paper, spray well with cooking spray and set aside.
• In one small bowl, mix ground almonds (almond meal), garlic (onion) powder, oregano (basil), salt and pepper.
• In another small bowl, whisk the eggs.
• Wash chicken breasts and pat dry with paper towel.
• Cut into 1/2 inch thick strips lengthwise.
• Place a few on a cutting board, cover with a piece of plastic wrap and pound with a meat tenderizer a few times. Repeat with remaining pieces.
• Dip each strip into an egg mixture, coat completely in almond mixture and place on prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 15 minutes on one side, flip and bake for another 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
• Serve hot with organic ketchup or Honey Mustard Sauce, or Cauliflower "Mashed Potatoes" for a complete meal.