Almond Crusted Chicken

If you’re looking for a crispy chicken dish that’s anything but boring, this Almond Chicken is about to be your new go-to. The crunchy almond coating gives the chicken a rich, nutty taste and golden crispiness while the inside stays perfectly juicy. And what’s crispy chicken without the perfect dip? A quick homemade honey mustard sauce adds just the right balance of sweet and tangy. This is an easy crispy chicken recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight but fancy enough for company. And the best part? No deep frying required!

I’ve tested a lot of breaded chicken recipes over the years, and this one stands out for a few key reasons. First, the almond coating isn’t just for crunch. It adds a rich, nutty taste that goes perfectly with the juicy chicken. Unlike some coatings that can get soggy, the combination of finely chopped almonds and panko gives you that crispy, golden crust every time. Plus, no deep frying means you get all the texture without the mess. And while this chicken is incredible on its own, the honey mustard sauce takes it over the top. Just the right amount of sweetness with a little tang to balance everything out. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for plain breaded chicken.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken breasts – Thin-sliced and pounded to an even thickness for quick, even cooking and ultra-juicy results.
• Flour – Helps the coating stick, giving the almonds and panko something to cling to.
• Eggs – Act as the binder, ensuring the coating stays in place.
• Almonds – The star of the show! The key to a perfect almond crusted chicken is finely chopped almonds. They create a crunchy, nutty crust that sets this recipe apart.
• Panko breadcrumbs – Light and crispy, they add structure to the almond coating without making it too dense. Giving it a light crunch.
• Cajun seasoning – A little boost of seasoning for a subtle kick. You can use a store-bought blend or make your own.
• Salt & pepper – Essential for bringing out the best in the chicken and coating.
• Olive oil or butter – For pan-frying to a golden, crispy finish. Butter adds a rich flavor, while olive oil keeps it lighter.

For the Honey Mustard Sauce:

• Dijon mustard – Bold and tangy, this balances the sweetness of the honey.
• Honey – Adds natural sweetness and helps create that perfect dipping consistency.
• Mayonnaise (optional) – A touch of mayo makes the sauce extra creamy, but you can leave it out if you prefer a thinner dip.
• Apple cider vinegar – Just a splash for a bit of acidity to brighten everything up.

How to Make Almond Chicken (Crispy & Golden)

Prep the Chicken

Lay the chicken breasts on a cutting board and pound them to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning if using.

Set Up Your Breading Station

Grab three shallow bowls. Fill one with flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with a mixture of finely chopped almonds and panko.

Bread the Chicken

Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, making sure it’s lightly coated. Dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off, then press it into the almond-panko mixture, ensuring an even coating.

Pan-Fry to Crispy Perfection

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This pan-fried chicken gets a perfectly golden, crispy crust while staying juicy inside.

Make the Honey Mustard Sauce

While the chicken cooks, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and mayonnaise (if using) in a small bowl until smooth.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before slicing. Serve with the honey mustard sauce on the side, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips and Tricks

• Chop the almonds finely for the best crunch. Large almond pieces won’t stick as well and can make the coating uneven. A quick blitz in a food processor or a rough chop with a sharp knife works best. I usually just pop them in the food processor.
• Make sure your chicken is thin sliced and an even thickness. This will help make sure that it’s cooked evenly without overcooking. You don’t want bland, dry chicken!
• Press the coating firmly onto the chicken – This helps the almond-panko mixture stick better so it stays crispy during cooking.
• Don’t skip the flour – It might seem like a small step, but the flour helps the eggs adhere properly, which keeps the breading from falling off.
• Use medium heat for even browning – Cooking over too high of heat can burn the almonds before the chicken is fully cooked, so stick to medium heat for the perfect golden crust.
• Check for doneness with a thermometer – The chicken is ready when it reaches 165°F internally. This ensures it’s cooked through while staying juicy.
• Let the chicken rest before slicing – Giving it a couple of minutes to rest keeps the juices inside.

How to Store and Reheat Almond Crusted Chicken

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store leftover almond chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat Almond Chicken

• Oven (best method): Preheat to 350°F and place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Heat for 10-12 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 4-5 minutes for the crispiest results. I recommend flipping them halfway through so that both sides get nice and crispy again.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side until heated through.
• Microwave (not recommended): While convenient, microwaving can make the coating soft instead of crispy and is most likely to overcook your chicken. You end up with a soft, soggy exterior and an overcooked interior.

Best Sides for Almond Chicken

This crispy almond-crusted chicken goes great with a variety of sides, whether you’re looking for something light and fresh or warm and comforting. Here are some of my favorite options:

Vegetable Sides

• Roasted Green Beans – A simple side that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Brown Sugar-Glazed Carrots – A touch of sweetness is great with the nutty almond crust.
• Garlic Butter Asparagus – Quick to make and packed with flavor.

Starches & Grains

• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and comforting, these are a great contrast to the crispy coating.
• Parmesan Orzo – Light and fluffy, it soaks up the honey mustard sauce perfectly.
• Quinoa or Couscous – A healthy, hearty option that complements the chicken.

Fresh & Light Options

• Rainbow Chopped Salad – Crispy veggies and a bright dressing make a refreshing contrast.
• Cucumber Tomato Salad – Light, crisp, and easy to throw together.

FAQs

With a golden, crunchy coating and a quick homemade honey mustard sauce, it’s a meal that feels special without the extra effort. Whether you pair it with a side salad or cheesy potatoes, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Did you make this Crispy Almond Chicken recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below and let me know, or tag me on Instagram so I can see your delicious creation.

More easy chicken recipes you might like

• Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken
• Panko Chicken
• Crispy Chicken Parmesan
• Baked BBQ Chicken Wings