Perfectly Almond-Coated Chicken Breast Recipe

Almond coating is a delightful way to elevate any chicken dish! This recipe for almond-coated chicken breast not only provides you with a tasty meal but also offers the added benefit of a healthy crunch. The preparation time for this dish is approximately 20 minutes, and it serves four people perfectly.

To start, gather your ingredients: boneless skinless chicken breasts, almonds (preferably blanched), salt, pepper, flour, egg whites, and panko breadcrumbs. You will also need a shallow bowl or plate for the flour, another for the beaten egg white mixture, and one more for the almond coating.

Firstly, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Lay each breast flat between two pieces of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to pound them until they are an even thickness. This step ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.

In a shallow bowl or plate, mix the flour with some salt and pepper for seasoning. In another bowl or plate, beat one egg white well. In your final bowl or plate, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the blanched almonds, ensuring they are finely ground enough to adhere well to the chicken.

Coat each pounded chicken breast first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten egg whites, and finally press both sides firmly onto the almond mixture. You may need a spatula or your hands for this step; just be sure not to cross contaminate areas that are already coated with raw chicken.

Heat some oil (about one inch deep) in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place three chicken breasts at a time into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on each side, approximately 5 minutes per side for a total cooking time of about 10-12 minutes.

Once all sides are nicely browned, remove the chicken from the skillet with tongs or a slotted spoon. Place them onto a paper towel to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately on a plate garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

• Tip: To make this dish even more flavorful, consider adding some lemon juice and garlic powder to the almond mixture for extra zest.
• Optional Side Dishes: Pair these almond-coated chicken breasts with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Variations: For an alternative, you could try using whole almonds instead of grinding them down into crumbs. The texture will be different but still equally delicious!

The almond coating adds an extra layer of flavor and nutrition to the chicken. It’s rich in healthy fats from the almonds themselves and provides a crunchy exterior that complements the softness of the chicken perfectly. This recipe is ideal for those looking to incorporate more whole foods into their diet while still enjoying delicious, restaurant-quality meals at home.

If you have any leftovers, store them properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will keep well for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage. Thaw frozen chicken before reheating it according to package instructions. To reheat, simply place the chicken under the broiler until heated through.

This easy almond-coated chicken breast recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, not only because of its delicious taste but also due to its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this dish will impress both you and your guests alike!