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Keto Crispy Pork Rind Chicken Tenders

A stack of golden brown Keto Crispy Pork Rind Chicken Tenders showing the white, juicy interior.
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Make moist chicken tenders with a very crispy, low-carb coating using crushed pork rinds. This recipe works well for baking or air frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
  • 1 cup finely crushed pork rinds (chicharrones)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for binding)
  • Cooking spray or 2 tablespoons avocado oil for baking/frying

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or set your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine the crushed pork rinds, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. In a second shallow dish, whisk the eggs and Dijon mustard (if using).
  4. Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels. This step helps the coating stick.
  5. Dip each chicken strip first into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
  6. Dredge the chicken thoroughly in the pork rind mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken to ensure full coverage and a thick crust.
  7. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet or in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with oil.
  8. Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If using an air fryer, cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  9. Serve immediately for maximum crispness.

Notes

  • For the finest coating, pulse the pork rinds in a food processor until they resemble coarse breadcrumbs.
  • If you prefer pan-frying, heat 1/2 inch of avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry the tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pork rind mixture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tasteportfolio.com/keto-crispy-pork-rind-chicken-tenders/