If you’re craving a crispy, flavorful, and guilt-free snack, these Crispy Keto Chicken Strips are the perfect solution! Tender chicken coated in a crunchy, low-carb, and keto-friendly breading, these chicken strips are a delicious and satisfying alternative to traditional fried chicken. Whether you’re on a keto diet, following a low-carb regimen, or simply looking for a healthier version of a classic favorite, this recipe delivers all the flavor and crunch without the extra carbs.

By swapping traditional breadcrumbs with almond flour and other keto-friendly ingredients, these chicken strips remain crispy on the outside while staying juicy on the inside. With the perfect blend of seasonings and a light, crispy coating, these strips will soon become your go-to low-carb meal or snack.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Strips:

  • 2 pounds (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenders
  • 1 large egg (or 2, depending on the amount of chicken)
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for extra moisture)
  • 1 cup almond flour (or 100g)
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (or 50g), for extra crispiness and flavor
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds (optional for added fiber)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smokey flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (optional, helps create extra crispiness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a little heat)

For Frying:

  • 1/4 cup avocado oil, coconut oil, or olive oil (or about 60ml) for frying
  • 1-2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) for extra flavor (optional)

For Dipping Sauce (Optional):

  • 1/2 cup sugar-free ketchup or low-carb BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
  • 1 tablespoon mustard or Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for tanginess)
  • A pinch of salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Strips

  1. Trim the Chicken: Begin by trimming the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into even strips (about 1-inch wide). You can also use pre-cut chicken tenders for this recipe if preferred.
  2. Tenderize (Optional): If you prefer a more tender texture, you can gently pound the chicken strips with a meat mallet to make them thinner. This step is optional but helps them cook evenly and quickly.
  3. Set Up the Breading Station: Prepare your breading station by setting up three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, whisk together the egg and heavy cream until combined (if you’re using heavy cream). In the second bowl, combine the almond flour, grated parmesan cheese, ground flaxseeds (optional), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, black pepper, salt, baking powder, and chili powder. In the third bowl, place a paper towel to drain excess oil after frying.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken Strips

  1. Dip the Chicken in Egg Wash: First, dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess egg drip off.
  2. Coat with Almond Flour Mixture: After dipping in the egg wash, transfer the chicken strip to the almond flour mixture. Press gently to coat the chicken strip thoroughly, making sure it is well-covered with the seasoned breading.
  3. Repeat the Process: Continue this process with each chicken strip, placing the coated chicken strips on a clean plate or tray. Make sure there’s no excess breading on the chicken strips to prevent sogginess.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken Strips

  1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the avocado oil (or your preferred oil) over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan but not submerge the chicken entirely.
  2. Test the Oil Temperature: To test if the oil is hot enough, sprinkle a small pinch of almond flour into the pan. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready for frying.
  3. Fry the Chicken: Add the chicken strips to the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each chicken strip for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid flipping them too often; let them cook evenly on one side before turning them over.
  4. Drain Excess Oil: Once the chicken strips are crispy and golden, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Optional – Prepare Dipping Sauce

  1. Mix the Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the sugar-free ketchup or low-carb BBQ sauce with mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Serve the Dipping Sauce: Serve the dipping sauce alongside your crispy keto chicken strips for added flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve Hot: Once the chicken strips are ready, serve them immediately while they’re still warm and crispy. These chicken strips make a great appetizer, main dish, or even a keto snack.
  2. Pair with a Side: You can pair these crispy chicken strips with a keto-friendly side such as a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or cauliflower rice.

Useful Tips for Success

  1. Oil Temperature: Be sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken strips. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy. The ideal temperature is around 350°F (175°C).
  2. Make It Extra Crispy: For an even crispier crust, you can add a tablespoon of baking powder to the almond flour mixture. This helps create an airy, crispy coating.
  3. Flavor Variations: You can customize the seasoning of the breading to your taste. Try adding a little lemon zest for a zesty touch or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
  4. Baking Option: If you prefer to avoid frying, you can bake the chicken strips. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with avocado oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Nutritional Information (Per Chicken Strip, Based on 10 Servings)

  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Fat: 16g
    • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
    • Fiber: 2g
    • Net Carbs: 1g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Potassium: 180mg
  • Calcium: 80mg
  • Iron: 1.5mg

Weight Watchers SmartPoints:

  • PersonalPoints: 3 points per chicken strip (based on 10 servings)
  • Old Points: 4 points per chicken strip
  • Blue/Green: 3 points per chicken strip
  • Purple: 3 points per chicken strip

Why These Crispy Keto Chicken Strips Are Perfect for Keto and Low-Carb Diets

These Crispy Keto Chicken Strips are an ideal snack or meal for anyone on a keto or low-carb diet. Packed with healthy fats from avocado oil and almond flour, they keep you in ketosis while providing satisfying protein from the chicken. The almond flour and parmesan breading replace traditional high-carb breading, making them low in carbs while still delivering that satisfying crunch.

The combination of the egg wash and almond flour creates a crispy, golden exterior that rivals the best fried chicken—without the carb load. These chicken strips are great for meal prep, as they can be stored in the fridge and enjoyed throughout the week.

With only 1g of net carbs per serving and 3 SmartPoints for Weight Watchers, these chicken strips fit seamlessly into your diet plan while giving you the crunch and flavor you crave. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a special gathering, or as a snack to get you through the day, they are versatile, easy to prepare, and full of flavor.

Why These Chicken Strips Are Ideal for Weight Watchers

For those on the Weight Watchers program, these crispy keto chicken strips are a great option for satisfying your cravings without breaking the bank on your SmartPoints. At only 3 SmartPoints per serving (for each chicken strip), they are a low-points snack or meal that you can enjoy without guilt. Plus, the high protein and healthy fats in these strips will keep you fuller for longer, making them perfect for curbing hunger between meals.

These chicken strips are an excellent source of lean protein while being low in carbs, making them an ideal choice for anyone following the WW Blue, Green, or Purple plans. You can pair them with a side of fresh veggies or a light salad for a balanced, filling meal without adding too many points.

Conclusion

These Crispy Keto Chicken Strips are a must-try for anyone looking for a satisfying, low-carb, and keto-friendly alternative to traditional fried chicken. With their golden, crunchy coating and juicy interior, they provide the perfect combination of texture and flavor. Plus, they are incredibly versatile—serve them as an appetizer, a main course, or as a snack during your day.

By using wholesome, keto-approved ingredients like almond flour and parmesan cheese, these chicken strips are both low in carbs and packed with healthy fats. Whether you’re on a keto diet, following Weight Watchers, or just looking for a healthy dinner option, these crispy chicken strips will become a staple in your kitchen.