This Almond-Crusted Chicken is crispy, flavorful, and baked to perfection. Made with wholesome ingredients like almonds and Parmesan, this dish is a healthy and delicious dinner option that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on both taste and nutrition.

Ingredients

For the Almond Crust:

1 cup dry roasted unsalted almonds
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried parsley
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken:

1 egg, lightly beaten
1 pound chicken cutlets
Cooking spray as needed

Instructions

Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a baking rack on a rimmed sheet pan and spray it generously with nonstick cooking spray.
Make the Almond Coating: In a food processor, pulse the almonds until they form fine crumbs. Transfer the almond crumbs to a shallow bowl and mix in the Parmesan cheese, onion powder, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Prep the Chicken: Place the beaten egg in a separate shallow bowl. Pat the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels.
Coat the Chicken: Working one cutlet at a time, dip it into the egg, letting any excess drip off. Then, press the chicken into the almond mixture, ensuring an even coating on both sides. Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking rack. Repeat with the remaining cutlets.
Bake to Perfection: Spray the tops of the chicken with nonstick cooking spray. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the almond crust is golden and crisp.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the chicken from the oven, let it rest for a minute, and serve hot with your favorite side dishes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy & Wholesome: High in protein, low in carbs, and packed with healthy fats.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
Versatile: Works as a main dish, salad topping, or even a sandwich filling.

Tips

Ensure the almonds are finely ground to help them stick better.
Spray the chicken generously with cooking spray to achieve a crispy texture.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese-Free: Skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free option.
Spices: Add cayenne for heat or Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist.
Nuts: Substitute almonds with pecans or walnuts for a different flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses almonds instead of breadcrumbs.

What if I don’t have a food processor?
You can use store-bought almond meal or chop the almonds finely with a knife.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of cutlets?
Absolutely, just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Serving and Suggestions

Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed sweet potatoes, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Slice the chicken and add it to a wrap or grain bowl for a healthy lunch.
Serve with a creamy yogurt-based dip or honey mustard for extra flavor.

This Almond-Crusted Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!