Crispy Almond Chicken Breast

Crispy Almond Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right into your kitchen! This recipe captures the essence of Panda Express’s version, featuring juicy chicken coated in a light and crunchy rice cereal crust, all smothered in a savory glaze and topped with almonds. Perfect for any occasion, this dish impresses at dinner parties or serves as a quick weeknight meal for the family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in about an hour.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates an irresistible savory glaze.
• Crunchy Texture: The crispy rice coating gives each bite a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with tender chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even as a snack during movie night.
• Healthy Twist: Using chicken breast keeps this recipe lean without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Crispy Almond Chicken Breast, a few essential tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowls
• Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer
• Baking sheet or plate for dredging
• Whisk
• Skillet or wok

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer: Ensures even heating for perfectly fried chicken.
• Large mixing bowls: Essential for marinating chicken and combining dry ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

For this Crispy Almond Chicken Breast, gather the following ingredients:

For the Marinade

• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• 1½ lb boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 2 inch pieces)

For Dredging

• ¼ cup almond flour
• ¼ cup all purpose flour
• 1½ cups crispy rice cereal
• Salt and pepper

For Frying and Sauce

• Frying oil
• 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ¼ inch knob ginger (minced; about ½ tsp)
• 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1½ tbsp white granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp corn starch
• ⅓ cup low sodium chicken broth
• ¼ cup sliced almonds
• 1-2 green onion (thinly sliced; for garnish)

How to Make Crispy Almond Chicken Breast

Step 1: Marinade the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, whisk together egg, 1 tbsp soy sauce, baking soda, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well.
3. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Dredge

1. In another large bowl, combine almond flour, all purpose flour, crispy rice cereal, ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp pepper.
2. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Step 3: Batter the Chicken in Dredge

1. Once marinated, remove a piece of chicken from the marinade allowing excess to drip off.
2. Roll and press it into the cereal mixture until fully coated.
3. Place on a plate or baking sheet and repeat with remaining chicken pieces.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat 1-2 inches of frying oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to about 350°F.
2. Carefully add a few pieces of battered chicken. Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper frying.
3. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown with an internal temperature of 155°F.
4. Transfer fried chicken to a cooling rack; lightly salt if desired.
5. Repeat with remaining batches of chicken.

Step 5: Toast the Almonds

1. In a skillet over medium heat, add sliced almonds.
2. Toast for about 5 minutes while stirring frequently until lightly golden and fragrant.
3. Transfer almonds to a clean bowl and set aside.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix garlic, ginger, 2 tbsp soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, corn starch, broth, salt, and pepper until homogenous.
2. Pour into the same skillet used for almonds; simmer over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until thickened.

Step 7: Assemble

If serving immediately:
1. In a wok or large bowl, combine fried chicken pieces with toasted almonds and sauce along with half of the green onion.
2. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in sauce.
3. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with remaining green onion before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Crispy Almond Chicken Breast, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Crispy Almond Chicken Breast

Crispy Almond Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the chicken over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, creating a delicious combination.

With Noodles

• Pair the chicken with stir-fried noodles for an Asian-inspired feast. The noodles add a different texture and soak up the flavors of the sauce beautifully.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for a fresh appetizer or snack that’s both fun to eat and healthy.

As Part of a Salad

• Add crispy almond chicken to your favorite salad mix. The crunch complements greens like spinach or arugula, while the sauce adds depth to each bite.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer various dipping sauces on the side, such as sweet chili sauce or soy sauce. This allows guests to customize their flavors according to their preferences.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your serving with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. This adds an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

How to Perfect Crispy Almond Chicken Breast

Achieving the perfect Crispy Almond Chicken Breast requires attention to detail and a few helpful techniques. Follow these tips for optimal results:

• Marinate Well – Allowing the chicken to marinate longer intensifies flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and ginger provide better taste than pre-packaged options.
• Maintain Proper Oil Temperature – Keeping oil at 350°F prevents sogginess and ensures a crispy texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry in small batches to maintain consistent temperature and achieve even cooking.
• Toast Almonds Beforehand – Toasting almonds enhances their flavor and adds an extra crunch.
• Serve Immediately – For maximum crispiness, serve right after tossing in sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Almond Chicken Breast

Crispy Almond Chicken Breast pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A nutritious choice that adds color and balances out the richness of the chicken.
2. Fried Rice
   Flavorful fried rice with vegetables makes for a hearty side that complements Asian-inspired dishes well.
3. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad offers a crunchy contrast that’s light and zesty.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and richness alongside crispy chicken.
5. Coleslaw
   Crisp coleslaw brings crunch and tanginess, making it an excellent pairing for fried dishes.
6. Quinoa Pilaf
   A healthy grain option, quinoa pilaf adds protein and nutty flavors, enhancing your meal’s nutritional value.
7. Sauteed Green Beans
   Quick sautéed green beans tossed with garlic offer a vibrant, flavorful side bursting with nutrients.
8. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory dishes like crispy chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crispy Almond Chicken Breast can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid those pitfalls.

• Not marinating enough: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step; longer is better.
• Overcrowding the frying pan: If you add too many pieces of chicken at once, the temperature drops, resulting in soggy coating. Fry in small batches for a crispy texture.
• Skipping the toast on almonds: Toasting almonds brings out their flavor and enhances your dish. Always toast them before adding to the chicken for the best taste.
• Not checking internal temperature: Undercooked chicken can be unsafe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 155°F.
• Ignoring sauce thickness: A sauce that’s too thin won’t cling well to the chicken. Whisk continuously while simmering until it thickens properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crispy Almond Chicken Breast

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crispy Almond Chicken Breast

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Crispy Almond Chicken Breast, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

What can I use instead of almond flour?

You can substitute with any nut flour or even all-purpose flour if needed. Just consider allergies when choosing alternatives.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken your sauce, add more corn starch mixed with water or let it simmer longer until it reduces.

Can I use other nuts besides almonds?

Absolutely! Cashews or peanuts would work great if you’re looking for variety.

Is Crispy Almond Chicken Breast healthy?

With lean chicken and nut toppings, it’s a healthier option compared to fried alternatives. Enjoy it as part of a balanced meal!

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. You can also adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Almond Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that combines tenderness with crunch, making it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and ingredients based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious meal that impresses everyone at your table!