There’s nothing quite like biting into a piece of perfectly fried chicken, is there? The crispy outer coating giving way to tender, juicy meat underneath… it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that’s hard to beat. But what if you’re following a ketogenic diet? Does that mean you have to kiss your beloved fried chicken goodbye? Not at all!
Think of the Keto diet like a tightrope walker. It requires balance. Too many carbs, and you fall off the rope. But with the right recipe, you can enjoy your fried chicken and stay on the rope. In fact, I’ve got a Keto Fried Chicken recipe that’s so delicious, you’ll forget it’s low-carb. Intrigued? Let’s dive in.
The Secret to Crispy Keto Fried Chicken
The secret to getting that crave-worthy crunch on your Keto Fried Chicken? It’s all about the breading. Traditional fried chicken recipes use flour or bread crumbs, both of which are no-nos on a Keto diet. Instead, we’ll be using a combination of almond flour and Parmesan cheese. Almond flour, being lower in carbs and higher in healthy fats, is a staple in many keto recipes. Meanwhile, Parmesan cheese adds a delightful savory flavor to our chicken.
But wait, won’t the cheese melt and make a mess in the frying pan? Not to worry. Parmesan has a higher melting point compared to other cheeses, which means it can withstand the heat and help create a beautifully golden, crispy crust.
Choosing the Best Chicken Parts
When it comes to fried chicken, the part of the chicken you choose can make a big difference in the final result. For this recipe, I prefer using chicken thighs or drumsticks. These parts are naturally more juicy and flavorful, which makes for a more satisfying Keto Fried Chicken.
That being said, you can certainly use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as breasts tend to cook faster than thighs or drumsticks.
The Importance of Seasoning
A good Keto Fried Chicken isn’t just about the crispy coating – it’s also about the flavor inside. That’s why seasoning your chicken is crucial. In this recipe, we’ll be using a combination of spices that will give our chicken a delicious taste. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking!
Remember, the key to a flavorful chicken is to season it well and let it marinate for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to penetrate into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful fried chicken.
Ingredients
- 5 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let it marinate for at least an hour.
- In a bowl, combine almond flour and Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each chicken piece in the beaten eggs, then dredge in the almond flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a frying pan. Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes plus marinating time
Tips for Keto Fried Chicken
Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to prevent it from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy. Also, do not overcrowd the pan; fry the chicken in batches if necessary. To keep the chicken warm while you fry the remaining pieces, place them in an oven set to a low temperature.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Keto Fried Chicken recipe is a must-try because it combines the best of both worlds: the crispy, savory goodness of traditional fried chicken and the health benefits of a keto diet. The almond flour and Parmesan cheese create a unique and delicious coating that you won’t find in any other recipe. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or a keto-friendly gathering.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Fat: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Carbohydrate: 4 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Protein: 24 g