Dairy Free Paleo Almond Flour Chicken Tenders
Crispy, golden chicken tenders are one of those comfort foods that feel almost impossible to recreate without the usual breadcrumbs and dairy-laden dips — but this oven-baked version absolutely delivers. Almond flour forms the coating here, pressed firmly onto each piece and finished with a drizzle of avocado oil that helps it turn a deep, satisfying golden brown in a hot oven. Smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a hit of cayenne give every bite serious flavor without relying on any dairy whatsoever. Setting the tenders on a wire rack while they bake is the real trick — it lets hot air circulate all the way around so you get crunch on every side, not just the bottom. A squeeze of fresh lemon right before eating brightens the whole thing up and cuts through the richness of the almond flour crust. These are the kind of tenders that disappear fast, whether you're feeding picky kids or just treating yourself to something genuinely good on a weeknight.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the chicken
- 1 ½ lb chicken tenders (about 12 pieces)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the coating
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
For serving
- lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Set a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet and brush or spray the rack lightly with avocado oil.
- 2
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels, then season all over with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!