`html

Low Carb Air Fryer Chicken: A Crispy, Guilt-Free Delight

Welcome to my kitchen! I’m Nyla—a chef with a true love for creating recipes that not only taste amazing but also bring people together. This website is where I share my favorite dishes, cooking tips, and step-by-step guides to help you enjoy the process as much as the result. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, you’ll find inspiration here to make every meal special! Today, we’re diving into a fantastic recipe that’s both delicious and healthy: Low Carb Air Fryer Chicken. Forget greasy, unhealthy fried chicken—this version delivers all the crispy goodness you crave, without the carbs and extra calories. It’s so good, you’ll wonder why you ever made it any other way!

This recipe is perfect for anyone following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet, or simply looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. We’re talking juicy, tender chicken with a satisfyingly crunchy coating, all achieved with minimal oil and maximum flavor. Plus, the air fryer makes the whole process incredibly easy and quick. It’s a weeknight dinner winner!

A Brief Overview of This Recipe

This Low Carb Air Fryer Chicken recipe swaps out the usual flour-based breading for a mixture of almond flour, parmesan cheese, and seasonings. This creates a crispy, flavorful crust that’s also low in carbohydrates. The air fryer cooks the chicken evenly and quickly, using hot air circulation to mimic the effects of deep-frying. The result? Chicken that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and guilt-free all around. This recipe also allows you to customize the spices according to your preference. Add a little kick, or keep it mild, it’s all up to you!

Ingredients You Will Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece. Don’t be scared to adjust and adapt according to your palate:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
• Optional: Cayenne pepper for a little heat, or Italian seasoning for added flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps for perfectly cooked Low Carb Air Fryer Chicken:

1. Prep the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into evenly sized pieces (about 2-inch chunks) for even cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels – this helps the coating adhere better.
2. Prepare the Breading: In a shallow dish, combine the almond flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
3. Set Up the Egg Wash: In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
4. Bread the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dredge it in the almond flour mixture, pressing gently to help the breading stick. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated.
5. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets crispy.

6. Air Fry the Chicken: Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the breaded chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded. You may need to cook the chicken in batches.
7. Cook the Chicken: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
8. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken

Here are a few extra pointers to take your Low Carb Air Fryer Chicken to the next level:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Overcrowding the air fryer prevents the hot air from circulating properly, resulting in unevenly cooked chicken. Cook in batches for the best results.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, and make sure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to create your own unique flavor profile. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, or some Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
• Spray with Oil: Lightly spraying the chicken with olive oil or avocado oil before air frying helps it to get even crispier.

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the egg wash for a spicy kick.
• Lemon Herb Chicken: Add lemon zest and dried herbs like thyme and rosemary to the almond flour mixture.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add extra garlic powder and Parmesan cheese to the breading for a super savory flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Low Carb Air Fryer Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Salads: Serve with a fresh garden salad, Caesar salad, or coleslaw for a light and refreshing meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts make a healthy and delicious side dish.
• Cauliflower Mash: Creamy cauliflower mash is a great low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
• Zucchini Noodles: Sautéed zucchini noodles with pesto or marinara sauce provide a satisfying and low-carb pasta option.

Health Benefits of This Recipe

Besides being incredibly delicious, this Low Carb Air Fryer Chicken offers several health benefits:

• Low in Carbs: Made with almond flour instead of traditional flour, this recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
• High in Protein: Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, as well as promoting satiety.
• Lower in Fat: Air frying uses significantly less oil than deep-frying, resulting in a lower fat content.
• Gluten-Free: Almond flour is naturally gluten-free, making this recipe a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

By using the air fryer, you are significantly reducing the amount of oil needed to cook the chicken, which also reduces the overall fat content. You still get that crispy texture, but without the added grease!

Prep Time | Total Time | Kcal | Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving (depending on the size of the chicken pieces and specific ingredients used)
• Yield: 4 servings

This Low Carb Air Fryer Chicken is so quick and easy to make that it’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s also a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy, whether they’re following a low-carb diet or not. So, give it a try and let me know what you think!

You’ll love how this recipe delivers the satisfying crunch of fried chicken without the guilt. The almond flour breading is a game-changer, providing a tasty, low-carb alternative to traditional breading. Plus, the air fryer makes clean-up a breeze!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well, and they tend to be even more moist and flavorful. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Keep an eye on the internal temperature – it should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to air fry it when you’re ready to eat for the best results. The breading might get a little soft if it sits for too long, so air frying it fresh is always recommended.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover Low Carb Air Fryer Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can air fry it again for a few minutes to re-crisp the coating, or you can microwave it (though it won’t be as crispy).

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese in the breading. Parmesan is a classic choice, but you could also try using cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.

What can I use if I don’t have almond flour?

While almond flour is ideal for this recipe because it provides a great texture and is low in carbs, you could try using ground pork rinds as a substitute. Just make sure to grind them finely for a similar consistency.

Thank you for being here! I’m so glad you’re here. If you enjoyed this recipe or found it helpful, feel free to share it with your friends and family—great food is meant to be shared!

Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook and Instagram for more delicious recipes, kitchen tips, and daily cooking inspiration. Your support means the world to me, and I look forward to bringing you even more tasty ideas straight from my kitchen.

` Print