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Low Carb Buffalo Chicken

Low Carb Buffalo Chicken

Crispy almond flour coated chicken tenders are fried or air fried until golden, then tossed in a buttery buffalo sauce. The result is a flavorful low carb dish with juicy chicken and bold spicy coating.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • CHICKEN:
  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • ½ cup superfine almond flour
  • ½ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups avocado oil for frying or 2 tablespoons for air fryer spraying
  • BUFFALO SAUCE:
  • cup hot sauce
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 1 clove garlic finely minced
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • FOR SERVING:
  • ¼ cup blue cheese dressing
  • 2 tablespoons blue cheese crumbles

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Tongs
  • Skillet or air fryer
  • Small saucepan
  • Paper towels
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooking thermometer (optional but helpful)

Method
 

  1. First, remove the chicken tenders from the refrigerator and pat them dry thoroughly using paper towels. This step improves coating adhesion and helps achieve a crisp exterior. Meanwhile, prepare a shallow bowl and combine almond flour, finely grated parmesan, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly blended and uniform in texture.
  2. Next, crack the eggs into a separate bowl. Then whisk them thoroughly until the yolks and whites combine completely. The egg mixture should appear smooth and slightly frothy, which helps the coating stick evenly.
  3. Now, dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture. Ensure the entire surface is coated. After that, transfer the chicken into the almond flour mixture. Press firmly on all sides so the coating adheres securely. Place coated chicken on a plate and repeat with remaining pieces.
  4. Stovetop method:
  5. First, pour avocado oil into a deep skillet until it reaches about 2 inches in depth. Then heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches approximately 375°F or 190°C. Carefully lower each chicken tender into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the skillet to maintain temperature.
  6. Next, cook the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Watch for a deep golden color and steady bubbling. After turning once, continue cooking until both sides are crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C.
  7. Then, transfer cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels. Allow excess oil to drain and let the coating firm up for about 2 minutes.
  8. Air fryer method:
  9. First, preheat the air fryer to 400°F or 200°C. Lightly spray the basket with avocado oil. Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer without overlap. Spray the tops lightly with oil.
  10. Next, cook for 8 minutes. Then flip each piece carefully. Continue cooking another 6 to 8 minutes until crisp and golden.
  11. Meanwhile, place hot sauce, butter, vinegar, garlic, and salt into a small saucepan. Heat over low heat. Stir continuously until butter melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and glossy.
  12. Finally, place cooked chicken into a bowl. Pour warm buffalo sauce over the chicken. Toss gently until evenly coated. Serve immediately with blue cheese dressing and crumbles.

Notes

Use finely grated parmesan for best coating texture. Do not overcrowd while cooking. Let chicken rest briefly before tossing in sauce.