Keto Chicken Nuggets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and completely guilt-free! Made with boneless chicken breast, they’re coated in a low-carb blend of almond flour and seasonings, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick snack, lunch, or dinner, these nuggets are a flavorful, healthier alternative to traditional ones.
These keto chicken nuggets pork rinds are so flavorful that is crunchy and juicy with that smoky flavor that your whole family will love and for keto lovers, these low carb zesty chicken nuggets are sure to become their favorite comfort food.
What should be the breadcrumbs substitute on a keto diet?
We all know that whenever we talk about nuggets or any other fried chicken recipe, breadcrumbs acts as the main binding ingredient which holds the egg mixture. But when on keto we cannot use breadcrumbs because of its carbs amount.
So what to do?
Well, on keto there’s is an option known as panko crumbs or pork rind crumbs (< buy them) because they are high in fat and contain no carbs or 0 carbs. It naturally Carb-Free and Gluten-Free, Oven & Grill Friendly as well as it has high heat tolerance.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Keto Chicken Nuggets
- Double Coat for Extra Crunch: For an even crunchier nugget, you can double-dip the chicken pieces. After the first egg dip and almond flour coat, dip them back into the egg and almond flour mixture again.
- Rest the Nuggets: Let the breaded nuggets rest for 5 minutes before frying or baking. This helps the coating adhere better.
- Test the Oil: If you’re frying, test the oil temperature by dropping in a small piece of chicken or breading. It should sizzle immediately.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When frying, don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each nugget enough space to crisp up without getting soggy.
Variations of Keto Chicken Nuggets
While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, there are endless ways to customize these keto chicken nuggets:
- Cheese Variation: You can mix different types of cheese into the almond flour mixture. Try adding cheddar, mozzarella, or even spicy pepper jack for a bold flavor.
- Spicy Nuggets: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the dry mixture for a spicy twist.
- Nuggets with Herbs: If you’re a fan of herbs, feel free to mix in dried rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning into the almond flour mixture for an aromatic flavor profile.
How to Serve Keto Chicken Nuggets
Keto chicken nuggets are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for a wide range of meal ideas. Here are a few ways to serve them:
- As a Snack or Appetizer: Serve with a side of low-carb dipping sauces like ranch, mustard, or homemade avocado dip.
- In a Salad: Toss the nuggets on top of a mixed greens salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and avocado for a protein-packed lunch.
- In Wraps: For a low-carb wrap, place the nuggets in a lettuce leaf with some avocado, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of ranch or Caesar dressing.
Can you make them without almond flour?
Yes, you can try other options like dry-grated parmesan cheese and pork rinds (this is what we are using in this recipe)
How to Serve these Low Carb Zesty Chicken Nuggets
You can serve them as a main course with keto ranch dressing, baked zucchini fries or keto-friendly ketchup and enjoy this as a snack or an appetizer.
How to Store Keto Chicken Nuggets
These nuggets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes, or air fry them for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture.
For longer storage, keto chicken nuggets freeze well! Simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Keto Chicken Nuggets Air Fryer
Follow the initial steps and place them on the air fryer and fry at 350° for about 12 minutes flipping halfway through.
Keto Chicken Nuggets Baked
As mentioned above, follow the initial steps from the recipe card and place them in the preheated oven of 375F and bake for 15 minutes.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They tend to be juicier, which adds extra flavor. Just be sure to trim any excess fat before using them.
Can I make these nuggets in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the nuggets for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll get that perfect crisp without the need for extra oil.
How do I make these nuggets spicier?
To add heat, mix chili powder, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes into the almond flour mixture. You can also make a spicy dipping sauce using hot sauce or sriracha.
Can I use a different flour instead of almond flour?
Almond flour is key for keeping the recipe low-carb, but you can try coconut flour as an alternative. Just know that coconut flour absorbs more moisture, so you may need to adjust the egg coating.
Keto Chicken Nuggets (Low Carb)
Keto Chicken Nuggets are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and completely guilt-free! Made with boneless chicken breast, they’re coated in a low-carb blend of almond flour and seasonings, then baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
- 3 Chicken Breasts, skinless, boneless, cut into 1 inch chunks
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 bag (3 ounces) of pork rind breadcrumbs
- Avocado oil for frying
Instructions
- Take a bowl, beat the eggs and add paprika, salt, pepper, salt, garlic, and onion powder and mix well.
- Take a separate bowl and place the pork rinds.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add avocado oil.
- Dip the chicken into the egg mixture bowl then to the pork rind bowl and coat well, shake off any excess and place on a plate.
- Now add the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry them in batches for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
6Amount Per Serving Calories 191Total Fat 8gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 117mgSodium 542mgCarbohydrates 4gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 24g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Still Hungry! Try these other keto chicken recipes:
- Keto Chicken and Dumplings
- Easy Low Carb Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Chicken Kabobs with Vegetables
- Keto Low Carb Pineapple Chicken
Final Thoughts
These keto chicken nuggets are an absolute game-changer for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. Whether you’re craving a crunchy snack, a protein-packed meal, or a healthier alternative to fast food, these nuggets will become your go-to recipe. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven, packed into a salad, or dipped in your favorite low-carb sauce. Whatever way you serve them, they’re sure to be a hit!
