Oh, friend, let me tell you about the magic of making gluten free chicken tenders in my kitchen—it’s one of those comforting dishes that immediately brings everyone to the table. I remember the first time I perfected my gluten free chicken tenders recipe. It was a bit of a kitchen adventure! My youngest was diagnosed with gluten intolerance, and I was determined to create the crispy, juicy chicken tenders she loved—without any gluten mishaps. That’s when the heartwarming journey to the best-ever gluten free chicken tenders began.
You know how sometimes frying chicken strips can be a little… tricky? I had plenty of “aha” moments with my gluten free chicken tenders—like realizing the secret wasn’t just a gluten free breading for chicken but also letting the coating rest before cooking. That little pause makes all the difference! The smell of sizzling chicken tenders that are perfectly golden and crispy fills my kitchen with that comforting aroma that say, “Dinner’s about to be amazing.”
This recipe has become our family’s go-to because it fits right into our busy schedule. Between soccer practice, homework, and family movie nights, making these gluten free chicken tenders feels like a quick, healthy treat that everyone loves, including the picky eaters. It’s a healthy chicken tenders recipe that sneaks in some nourishment without skimping on that crispy, satisfying bite.
I first discovered the combination of almond flour and a touch of cornstarch for the crisp coating after trying countless gluten free breading for chicken options. It just works like a charm! And yes, my kitchen has seen a few flops along the way, but those mishaps? They’re part of the fun and learning.
If you’re into easy, tasty, and family-friendly meals, this one’s for you. I’d love for you to make these gluten free chicken tenders and invite your loved ones to enjoy a bit of crispy comfort with you. Ready to dive into the ingredients? I’ve got all my tips and tricks lined up. Oh, and by the way, if you want some extra inspiration for cozy chicken dishes, you might enjoy my turmeric chicken soup that’s just as satisfying!
What You’ll Need for This Gluten Free Chicken Tenders
Alright, let’s talk ingredients—the right ones make all the difference when making gluten free chicken tenders that taste just like the classic version but without any gluten worries. Here’s what I always keep on hand for this recipe:
- 1 ½ pounds of chicken tenders (or chicken breasts sliced into tender-sized strips)
- 1 cup almond flour (I always choose blanched almond flour for a finer texture in my gluten free chicken strips)
- ½ cup cornstarch (this helps the breading become perfectly crispy)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a subtle smoky flavor to our gluten free fried chicken)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs (lightly beaten, to help the breading stick)
- Cooking oil (I like to use avocado oil because it’s great for frying and a healthy option for crispy chicken tenders gluten free)
When making these gluten free chicken tenders, you can usually find almond flour at well-stocked grocery stores or natural food markets. If you’re looking to save a little here, buying in bulk or checking online options works well too!
A little kitchen wisdom I picked up: always pat your chicken strips dry before breading. It helps the gluten free breading for chicken stick better and crisp up more evenly. Also, prepping all your ingredients beforehand (mise en place!) saves so much time during cooking—vital when juggling dinner and family chaos.
If you happen to have any leftover almond flour or cornstarch, store them in airtight containers in a cool, dry place to keep them fresh for your next batch of healthy chicken tenders recipe goodness. By the way, if you want some extra pointers on ingredient choices for gluten free chicken, Easy Gluten Free Chicken Tenders (Crispy, Juicy, & Healthy!) has a nice guide that complements this recipe perfectly.
Let’s Make This Gluten Free Chicken Tenders Together
Here’s where the fun really begins! Whether you’re new to gluten free fried chicken or a seasoned pro, I’m right there with you to make the best gluten free chicken tenders you’ve ever tasted. Let’s get to it:
- Prep your chicken: If you’re using chicken breasts, slice them into strips about 1 inch wide. Pat dry with paper towels to remove moisture. This helps the breading stick and gives you that crispy finish.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a shallow bowl, combine almond flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir to mix well.
- Beat the eggs: In another bowl, lightly beat the two eggs. This will be your glue for the breading.
- Bread the chicken strips: Dip each chicken strip first into the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge it in the almond flour mixture. Press gently to make sure the coating adheres well. Don’t worry if some spots look patchy—that adds to the rustic charm!
- Rest before cooking: This is a trick I once learned after many trial runs. Let the coated chicken tenders sit for about 10 minutes on a wire rack. It helps the breading stick firm so it won’t fall off during frying. Such a game changer for crispy chicken tenders gluten free!
- Heat your oil: Pour about ½ inch of avocado oil into a heavy skillet and warm it over medium heat. You want it hot but not smoking—around 350°F if you have a thermometer.
- Cook the chicken: Carefully add the chicken tenders to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. They should have a beautiful crispy texture and smell like pure comfort frying in your kitchen.
- Drain and rest: Remove cooked tenders and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. If you’re making a big batch, keep them warm in the oven while finishing up.
You know, I learned the hard way with gluten free chicken strips that not resting the coating before frying results in a crumbly mess. Patience truly pays off here! While the chicken tenders are cooking, I usually tidy up the kitchen or throw together a quick spicy buffalo chicken mac and cheese to serve alongside.
For those wondering about alternate cooking methods, baking or air frying can work well too for healthier chicken tenders recipe options. Just know that frying keeps that extra-crispy crust we all crave. If you want more troubleshooting and technique tips, the Seriously Good Gluten-free Chicken Tenders! » Wheat by the Wayside page has some wonderful insights.
How I Love to Serve This Gluten Free Chicken Tenders
Every time I bring these gluten free chicken tenders to the table, it’s met with smiles all around. My family loves them paired with sweet potato fries for a cozy weeknight meal or alongside a crisp kale salad for something lighter. Sometimes, I throw together some roasted veggies or creamy mashed potatoes to round things out—comfort food that also feels nourishing.
These gluten free chicken tenders are perfect for so many occasions: from casual family dinners to game day gatherings or even kids’ birthday parties where a gluten free option is needed without missing the fun. Presentation-wise, a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon makes the tenders look as good as they taste.
Leftover gluten free chicken strips? Oh, we never waste those! They’re fantastic chopped into a salad, tossed into wraps, or even turned into a quick chicken tender sandwich with some gluten free bread. I love adding seasonal tweaks like a dusting of Cajun seasoning or swapping almond flour for gluten free panko crumbs depending on what’s available.
Friends always ask for this gluten free chicken tenders recipe, and I happily share it knowing it’s a crowd-pleaser. If you want to see another delicious chicken dish that’s warm and inviting, you might like my Parmesan Mushroom Chicken Soup. It’s the kind of meal that pairs beautifully with tender chicken in all forms.
Your Gluten Free Chicken Tenders Questions Answered
You know, when I first started making gluten free chicken tenders, I had bunches of questions, and guess what? Many of my readers have asked the same! So here are some answers to common cooking curiosities:
Q1: Can I substitute almond flour with something else for my gluten free chicken strips?
Absolutely! Some folks use coconut flour or gluten free panko crumbs. But watch the texture—almond flour is my favorite because it crisps up nicely without drying out the chicken. I’ve tried rice flour too, but it’s less crunchy.Q2: How do I keep my crispy chicken tenders gluten free and not soggy?
The key is in drying the chicken before breading and letting the breaded tenders rest before frying. Also, frying at the right temperature (around 350°F) keeps them crisp. I made the mistake once of using cold oil and ended up with greasy, limp tenders—not fun!Q3: Can I bake instead of frying for a healthier chicken tenders recipe?
Yes, baking is an option! Coat tenders as usual, lay them on a lined baking sheet, and spray with a little oil. Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t get the same crunch as my classic gluten free fried chicken, but it’s a healthier compromise.Q4: What’s the best oil for gluten free fried chicken?
Avocado oil and light olive oil are my top picks because they handle heat well and taste good. Avoid strong-flavored oils that might overwhelm the seasoning.Q5: Can I freeze these gluten free chicken tenders?
Definitely! Freeze them cooked on parchment paper, then transfer to a freezer container. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy. It’s a huge time-saver for busy weeks!Q6: How do I make gluten free breading for chicken that sticks better?
Use the egg wash generously and press the coating firmly onto the chicken. The rest period before frying also helps. If it still slips, use a little tapioca starch mixed in—it’s magic.Q7: Are these gluten free chicken tenders kid-friendly?
Oh yes, my kids adore them! They love dipping them into honey mustard or ketchup. This recipe has never failed me when feeding little ones or even my gluten free friends.
If you’re curious for even more tips or alternative recipes, Easy Gluten Free Chicken Tenders from Gluten Free Palate is an excellent tutorial that complements what I share here perfectly.
My Final Thoughts on This Gluten Free Chicken Tenders
I have to say, these gluten free chicken tenders hold a very special place in my heart—and our family dinners. From the first experimenting days to now, this recipe has become a symbol of comfort, care, and togetherness in my kitchen. The crispy, juicy bites remind me of the joy of cooking with intention and love.
My Gluten Free Chicken Tenders Pro Tips:
- Always let the breaded chicken rest before cooking for extra crispiness.
- Use a combination of almond flour and cornstarch for that perfect golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying to keep the oil temperature steady.
I’ve also tried variations like adding Parmesan cheese to the breading for a cheesy twist, using coconut flour for a tropical hint, and even air frying for a lighter touch. My kids tend to love the Parmesan add-in, while I personally enjoy the classic with smoked paprika—it’s the little smoky kick that wins me over every time.
I encourage you to make this recipe your own. Tweak the seasoning, experiment with dipping sauces, or pair it with your favorite sides. My hope is that your kitchen fills with the same cozy smells and happy chatter that happen whenever I serve these gluten free chicken tenders to my family.
Before you go, if you’re looking for comforting soup recipes to round out your meals, check out my cozy Turmeric Chicken Soup or indulge in this comforting Parmesan Mushroom Chicken Soup. And if a cheesy, spicy pasta calls your name, you don’t want to miss this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese.
Cooking gluten free chicken tenders is a journey—a mix of trial, error, and triumph. But with just a handful of smart tricks and ingredients, you’re well on your way to a crispy, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug from your kitchen. Happy cooking, friend!
Gluten Free Chicken Tenders
Enjoy crispy and juicy gluten-free chicken tenders, perfectly seasoned and baked for a healthy and delicious meal suitable for the whole family.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In another bowl, combine gluten-free breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender in the egg, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil if desired for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Serve with your favorite gluten-free dipping sauce or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.