Are you craving crispy, succulent fried chicken but want to stick to your ketogenic diet? You’re in the right place!
This guide will walk you through a foolproof keto fried chicken recipe that is not only delicious but also perfect for keeping those carbs in check.
Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this dish will become a staple in your low-carb recipe arsenal.
What is Keto Fried Chicken?
Keto fried chicken is a low-carb version of the classic fried chicken that you know and love. Traditional fried chicken recipes are coated in flour or breadcrumbs, which are high in carbohydrates. However, by substituting these with keto-friendly alternatives like almond flour and crushed pork rinds, you can enjoy the same crispy, golden-brown chicken without the extra carbs. The result? A guilt-free indulgence that fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle.
Ingredients You’ll Need For Perfect Keto Fried Chicken
To make the perfect keto fried chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, drumsticks, or breasts (bone-in or boneless, based on preference)
Breading:
- 1 cup almond flour (a great low-carb substitute for wheat flour)
- 1 cup crushed pork rinds (adds extra crunch and flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added richness)
- 1 tsp paprika (for a subtle smoky flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Wet Mixture:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (keeps the coating moist and helps it adhere to the chicken)
Cooking Oil:
- 1 cup avocado oil or coconut oil (both are high in healthy fats and have a high smoke point, perfect for frying)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry: Use paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the coating adhere better and ensures a crispy finish.
- Season the chicken: Lightly season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Let them sit while you prepare the breading and wet mixture.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large shallow dish, combine the almond flour, crushed pork rinds, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Prepare the wet mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until fully combined.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Dip each chicken piece into the wet mixture: Make sure it’s fully coated.
- Transfer the chicken to the dry mixture: Press the chicken into the breading mix, ensuring an even coat. Shake off any excess.
- Repeat the process: For extra crispiness, you can double-coat the chicken by repeating the wet and dry mixture steps.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat the avocado or coconut oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of the breading mixture into it—if it sizzles and rises to the top, the oil is ready.
- Fry the chicken: Carefully add the chicken pieces to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 6-8 minutes on each side, depending on the size of the pieces, until golden brown and crispy.
- Check for doneness: The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, pierce the chicken with a fork—if the juices run clear, it’s done.
- Drain the chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Tips for Perfect Keto Fried Chicken
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Seasoning the chicken and the breading mixture is key to flavorful keto fried chicken. Don’t be afraid to add more spices according to your taste.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensuring your chicken is cooked through is important, both for safety and for the best texture. A meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of frying.
- Double-Coat for Extra Crunch: For an even crispier coating, consider double-coating your chicken pieces. This technique adds extra layers of crunch that are hard to resist.
- Fry in Batches: Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy, greasy chicken. Fry in small batches to maintain the oil’s heat.
- Drain Properly: Allowing the chicken to rest on a wire rack after frying ensures that it stays crispy and doesn’t become soggy from sitting in excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Keto fried chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various keto-friendly sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Keto Coleslaw: A creamy, tangy coleslaw made with a sugar-free dressing is a classic side that complements the rich flavors of fried chicken.
- Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is creamy, buttery, and the perfect accompaniment to fried chicken.
- Zucchini Fries: For a keto-friendly version of French fries, try crispy zucchini fries. They’re baked, not fried, and make a great addition to your meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of keto fried chicken (assuming one chicken thigh or drumstick per serving):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 24g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Net Carbs: 2g
This recipe is ideal for anyone following a ketogenic diet, as it’s high in healthy fats, moderate in protein, and low in carbs.
Why This Recipe Works
Keto fried chicken is a game-changer for anyone on a low-carb diet. By swapping out traditional breading ingredients for keto-friendly alternatives, you can enjoy all the flavors and textures of fried chicken without the carb overload. The combination of almond flour and crushed pork rinds creates a crispy coating that holds up well during frying, while the seasoning mix adds depth and richness to every bite. Plus, using healthy oils like avocado or coconut oil ensures you’re getting the right fats for your diet.
Conclusion
Keto fried chicken is the perfect dish when you’re craving comfort food but want to stay on track with your low-carb diet. With its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and rich flavor, this recipe is sure to satisfy your fried chicken cravings while keeping your macros in check. Give it a try, and it might just become your new favorite keto meal!