Almond-Crusted Chicken – Crispy Baked Protein
Juicy chicken breast coated in crushed almonds and baked until golden. A high-protein 420-calorie dinner with 40g protein and a satisfying crunch.
Why You'll Love This Almond-Crusted Chicken Recipe
Juicy chicken breast coated in crushed almonds and baked until golden. A high-protein 420-calorie dinner with 40g protein and a satisfying crunch. This recipe is designed to be simple, nutritious, and satisfying — perfect for meal prep or a quick homemade meal. With 40g protein, 6g carbs, and 26g fat per serving, it fits seamlessly into a balanced diet.
Nutrition Breakdown
Each serving delivers 420 calories with a solid macronutrient profile. Whether you're tracking macros for muscle gain, fat loss, or general health, this recipe keeps you on target without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
- 400 g (2 pieces) Chicken breast
- 80 g Almonds (finely crushed)
- 1 Egg
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp Garlic powder
- to taste Salt & pepper
Instructions
Prepare coating
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Crush almonds in a food processor until they resemble coarse breadcrumbs. Mix with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Coat chicken
Whisk egg with Dijon mustard. Dip each chicken breast in the egg mixture, then press into the almond coating on both sides.
Bake
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake 20-22 minutes until internal temp reaches 74°C (165°F) and the coating is golden. Rest 5 minutes before slicing.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- — Pound the chicken to even thickness (about 2cm) for uniform cooking.
- — Do not crush the almonds too fine — some texture gives the best crunch.
- — The Dijon mustard in the egg wash adds flavor AND helps the coating stick better than egg alone.
Variations
- Low-carb version: Reduce or swap the carb source for extra vegetables or cauliflower rice.
- Higher protein: Add an extra serving of protein or a side of Greek yogurt.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: Watch the timing carefully — overcooked ingredients lose texture and nutrients.
- Under-seasoning: Healthy food should still taste great. Don't skip the seasoning step.
How to Store
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
What to Serve With This
- Side salad: A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds volume and vitamins.
- Water or herbal tea: Stay hydrated with a calorie-free beverage to complement this meal.
Final Thoughts
This Almond-Crusted Chicken recipe proves that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a nutritious dinner that supports your fitness goals. Bookmark this recipe and add it to your weekly rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is almond-crusted chicken gluten-free?
Yes. Crushed almonds replace traditional breadcrumbs, making this naturally gluten-free. It is also lower in carbs than breadcrumb-crusted chicken.
How do I keep the almond coating from falling off?
Pat the chicken very dry first, press the coating firmly, and let it rest for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before putting it in the oven. The egg-mustard mixture acts as strong glue.
Can I pan-fry almond-crusted chicken?
Yes. Pan-fry in a little olive oil over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side. Finish in a 180°C oven for 10 minutes to ensure the inside is fully cooked.
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