Crispy Almond Chicken Breast Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

I've got a fantastic recipe for you today to satisfy your craving for some seriously crispy and delicious chicken. This Crispy Almond Chicken Breast is inspired by Panda Express's famous version, but I've added my own little twist to make it even better.

The key to this recipe is the crispy and puffy rice coating we will use to cover the juicy and tender chicken breast. It's just the right balance of satisfyingly crunchy yet light, and it's so addictive you won't be able to stop at just one piece. And let's not forget the amazing flavor combo - we've smothered the chicken in a savory and tangy glaze, then tossed it with some almonds for an extra nutty crunch.

Trust me, this dish hits all the right notes and will become a staple in your weeknight meal rotation. So grab your apron, and let's get cooking!

Jump to:

• Ingredients you'll need:
• Step-by-step instructions:
• Top tips for making this recipe
• How to make crispy almond chicken breast in the air fryer
• How to make crispy almond chicken breast in your oven
• What goes well with Crispy Almond Chicken breast?
• Storing and Freezing Crispy Almond Chicken Breast
• FAQs related to crispy almond chicken breast
• Full Recipe

Ingredients you'll need:

For the Chicken:

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1½ lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 2-inch pieces
• Frying oil

For the dredge:

• ½ cup almond flour
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups crispy rice cereal
• Salt and pepper

For the Sauce:

• 3 cloves minced garlic
• ½ tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

For cornstarch slurry:

• ¼ cup water
• 1½ tablespoon cornstarch

For garnish:

• ½ cup sliced almonds
• 1-2 stalks of green onions, thinly sliced

---

Step-by-step instructions:

Step 1 Marinate the chicken

1. To enhance the chicken's flavor, I recommend marinating it. Start by whisking egg, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, baking soda, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper in a large bowl. This mixture will help tenderize the chicken and flavor the breading.
2. Then, add the chicken to the mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for 30 minutes or overnight for the best results. This step is critical to ensure the chicken is flavorful and tender before it's breaded and fried. 

---

Step 2 Mixing the perfect breading for your chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine ½ cup of almond flour, ½ cup of all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative), and 1 ½ cups of crispy rice cereal. This mixture will be the base of the breading and will help to create a crispy exterior on the chicken.
2. Add salt and pepper to the bowl and mix everything until well combined. This mixture will coat the chicken pieces before they are fried, giving them a crispy and crunchy exterior.

---

Step 3 Coat the chicken for the perfect crunch

1. Take a chicken chunk from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. This will help the dredge to stick to the chicken better.
2. Roll and press the chicken chunk into the dredge mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides. Press the breading onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
3. Place the breaded chicken chunk onto a plate or baking sheet, and repeat the process with the rest of the chicken pieces.

---

Step 4 It's time to fry that chicken to crispy perfection!

1. Pour about 1-2 inches of frying oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot and heat it up to 350°F. This temperature is ideal for frying the chicken and achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
2. Add a couple of chicken pieces to the pot, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. As you fry the chicken, the oil will naturally bubble, so it's crucial to monitor the temperature and make any necessary adjustments to maintain a frying temperature of 315-350°F.
3. Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes or until it's deeply golden brown and has an internal temperature of 155°F. This will ensure that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
4. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken to a cooling rack, and consider lightly salting. Repeat the process with the remaining chicken, frying in small batches.

---

Step 5 Let's toast some almonds!

1. Add the sliced almonds to a skillet or wok over medium heat, stirring them often.
2. Toast the almonds for about 3 minutes or until they are lightly golden and fragrant. This will help to bring out their natural nuttiness and add an extra layer of crunch to the dish.
3. Once the almonds are toasted, transfer them to a clean bowl and set them aside.

---

Step 6 Bring all the flavors with a delicious sauce or glaze

1. Combine minced garlic, ginger, low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, and low-sodium chicken broth in a small bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined.
2. Pour the sauce into the same skillet used to toast the almonds. Set the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for 1 to 2 minutes.
3. Add the cornstarch slurry and constantly whisk until it's dark and thickened. This will create a savory, tangy glaze that will take your Crispy Almond Chicken Breast to the next level!

---

Step 7 Assemble the food

1. Add the fried chicken pieces, toasted almonds, and the prepared sauce to the wok or a large bowl if serving immediately. Add half of the thinly sliced green onion as well.
2. Toss all the ingredients together until the chicken is evenly coated in the delicious sauce.
3. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl, and top it off with the remaining almond flakes and thinly sliced green onion.

Read:

• Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

---

Can I double-fry the chicken when making this recipe?

Yes, you can double-fry the chicken when making this recipe! Double-frying is a technique that involves frying the chicken twice to achieve an extra-crispy exterior. Here's how to do it:

1. After the chicken has been fried once, remove it from the oil and let it rest for a few minutes.
2. Reheat the oil to 375°F.
3. Add the chicken to the hot oil and fry it for about 1-2 minutes or until it's even crispier and more golden brown.

Here are a few notes to keep in mind:

• If you plan to marinate the chicken for more than 2 hours, be sure to cover it with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Before frying, let the chicken come to room temperature to ensure even cooking.
• Almond flour has a higher moisture content, which means it will bubble a lot when it hits the oil. To ensure your chicken is crispy and evenly cooked, fry it in small batches and carefully monitor the oil temperature to prevent it from rising above 350ºF.
• For the best results, we recommend using a frying thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and a meat thermometer to know when the chicken is fully cooked. This will help you achieve perfectly crispy and juicy chicken every time.

---

Importance of each ingredient:

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the dish's perfect flavor, texture, and balance. From the tenderizing effect of baking soda to the nuttiness of almond flour to the sweetness of white sugar, each element has been carefully chosen to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your taste buds.

1. Egg - The egg acts as a binding agent for the breading, holding the almond and all-purpose flour and the crispy rice cereal in place on the chicken. It also helps to create a crisp texture on the outside of the chicken.
2. Low-sodium soy sauce - Soy sauce is a staple in many Asian dishes and provides a savory umami flavor to the chicken and the breading. The low-sodium version is recommended to keep the sodium level in check and prevent the dish from becoming too salty.
3. Baking soda is a tenderizing agent that helps break down the chicken's fibers and make it more tender and juicy. It also helps the chicken to retain moisture while cooking, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
4. Boneless skinless chicken breast - This chicken cut is lean and has a mild flavor, making it ideal for this dish because it does not overpower the other flavors. The absence of skin also allows the breading to adhere to the chicken more easily.
5. Almond flour provides a nutty flavor and added crunch to the breading and is a great alternative to traditional flour for gluten-free people. It also contributes to the dish's nutritional value, as it is a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
6. All-purpose flour is combined with almond flour to help the breading adhere to the chicken and create a crisp crust. It also helps to absorb any excess moisture from the chicken, resulting in a crisper coating.
7. Crispy rice cereal - Crispy rice cereal provides a unique texture and flavor to the breading, creating a light and airy coating that is satisfyingly crunchy and easy to eat. The cereal is crushed and combined with the flour to make the breading.
8. Salt and pepper - Salt and pepper are basic seasonings that help to enhance the natural flavor of the chicken and the breading. They also help to balance the sweetness and tanginess of the sauce.
9. Frying oil - Frying oil is necessary for cooking the chicken and achieving a crispy exterior. Vegetables, canola, or peanut oil are all good choices for this recipe, as they have high smoke points and neutral flavors.
10. Garlic - Garlic provides a pungent, aromatic flavor to the sauce and complements the savory and tangy elements in the dish. It also offers several potential health benefits, including immune-boosting properties and the ability to lower blood pressure.
11. Ginger - Ginger adds a spicy, fresh flavor to the sauce and pairs well with the other flavors in the dish. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive health benefits.
12. Low-sodium chicken broth - Chicken broth adds richness and depth of flavor to the sauce and helps to balance out the strong flavors of the soy sauce and oyster sauce. A low-sodium version helps keep the dish's overall sodium content in check.
13. Oyster sauce - Oyster sauce provides a salty, savory, and slightly sweet flavor and is a staple in many Chinese dishes. It is made from oyster extracts, soy sauce, and other seasonings.
14. White granulated sugar - Sugar is added to the sauce to balance the saltiness and add a slightly sweet flavor. It also helps to create a nice glaze on the chicken.
15. Cornstarch - Cornstarch is used as a thickener in the sauce, helping it to adhere to the chicken and create a nice glaze. It is a common ingredient in many Chinese dishes, creating a smooth and silky texture in sauces and gravies.
16. Sliced almonds - Sliced almonds are used as a garnish for the dish and provide a nutty crunch for each bite. Almonds are also high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber and are a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals.
17. Green onions - Green onions are a flavorful garnish that provides a fresh, slightly pungent flavor. They are also a good vitamin C and fiber source known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

---

Top tips for making this recipe

Tip 1 Whisk it up: How to create a perfectly smooth and flavorful sauce

1. Combine all the sauce ingredients in a separate bowl first. This will ensure the corn starch is thoroughly whisked in with the other ingredients, creating a smooth and cohesive mixture.
2. Adding the ingredients directly into the pan can result in an uneven mixture - the starch may clump together, and you'll end up with a lumpy sauce that you'll need to strain.

---

Tip 2 Toasting almonds is a crucial step

1. Watch the sliced almonds very carefully while toasting. Nuts contain lots of natural oil that causes them to burn quickly, so keeping a close eye on them is crucial.
2. Stir the almonds continually as they toast to ensure they cook evenly and don't burn. This will also help release their delicious nutty aroma.

---

Tip 3 Elevate the flavor with a simple pinch of salt

1. The oil absorbs seasoning better when it's hot, so adding a pinch of salt immediately after frying will help it stick to the chicken and create an extra burst of flavor.
2. Be sure to use just a pinch of salt, as the chicken is already seasoned from the marinade and the breading mixture. A little bit of salt goes a long way!

---

How to make crispy almond chicken breast in the air fryer

I always look for ways to make my favorite dishes healthier without sacrificing flavor. If you're a Crispy Almond Chicken Breast fan, you'll be happy to know it's easy to make a healthier version of this dish using an air fryer. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get the best results.

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400ºF before you start cooking. This will ensure it's hot enough to cook the chicken quickly and evenly.
2. Generously spray the basket with oil before adding the chicken to prevent it from sticking. You can lightly coat the chicken pieces with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
3. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. This will help the hot air circulate around the chicken and cook it evenly.
4. Air fry the chicken for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket and spraying with more oil halfway through. This will ensure the chicken is evenly browned and crispy on all sides.

---

How to make crispy almond chicken breast in your oven

Baking is an excellent option if you're looking for a healthy and easy way to enjoy Crispy Almond Chicken Breast. I've tried and tested different methods to help you get the best results every time. Here are some tips to remember when baking this dish in your kitchen.

1. A wire rack is necessary to get a crispy crust on the chicken. Line a baking sheet with foil and place the wire rack on top. Generously spray the rack with oil to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the breaded chicken on the wire rack, leaving space between each piece. This will allow the hot air to circulate around the chicken and cook it evenly.
3. Spray the chicken with oil to help it brown and become crispy. Then, bake in a preheated oven at 425ºF for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 155ºF.
4. You can still bake the chicken directly on a foil-lined baking sheet if you don't have a wire rack. Just be sure to spray the foil with oil and flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure that both sides are evenly browned.

---

Substitutes

1 Almond flour:

If you are out of almond flour, there is no need to worry. You can easily substitute all-purpose flour or corn starch on a 1:1 basis and still achieve an amazing result. While almond flour provides a unique nutty flavor and a healthier nutritional profile, using a substitute will not compromise the delicious taste of the dish. So don't let a lack of almond flour stop you from making this scrumptious Crispy Almond Chicken Breast recipe.

---

2 Protein

No matter what cut of chicken you use, whether you use chicken breasts, thighs, or even a combination of both, chunk the meat into approximately 2-inch pieces.

This helps ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and has a consistent texture. If you end up cutting the chicken into smaller pieces, just keep in mind that you may need to make more dredge to ensure that each piece is fully coated in the breading.

---

Gluten-free options

Unfortunately, the original Panda Express Crispy Almond Chicken recipe is not gluten-free. However, you can make gluten-free substitutions for some ingredients, such as using gluten-free soy sauce and flour, to make a gluten-free version at home.

Here are the gluten-free options for this Crispy Almond Chicken Breast recipe:

1. Almond Flour - You can use almond flour as a gluten-free alternative instead of all-purpose flour. It will add a nutty flavor and extra crunch to the breading.
2. Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour - If you don't have almond flour on hand, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a 1:1 substitute for the all-purpose flour in the recipe. This will help the breading adhere to the chicken and create a crisp crust.
3. Cornstarch - Cornstarch is naturally gluten-free and can be used instead of all-purpose flour to help the breading stick to the chicken and create a crispy exterior.
4. Gluten-Free Crispy Rice Cereal - If you need a gluten-free alternative to crispy rice cereal, look for a gluten-free brand at your local grocery store.

---

What goes well with Crispy Almond Chicken breast?

When it comes to Crispy Almond Chicken Breast, there are a variety of sides and sauces that can elevate your meal. As someone who has made this dish numerous times, here are some of my go-to options for sides and sauces that I highly recommend:

1. Fried Rice: The nuttiness of the almond and the savory flavors of the chicken complement the flavors of fried rice well. Recipe here.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Serve with broccoli, green beans, or bok choy to add fresh and healthy greens.
3. Egg Drop Soup: This light and flavorful soup is a great way to start your meal and complements the richness of the Crispy Almond Chicken Breast.
4. Noodles: Crispy Almond Chicken Breast is also great with noodles. Try lo mein, chow mein, or stir-fried noodles for a delicious and satisfying meal.
5. Salad: A simple side salad of greens, carrots, and cucumbers with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the chicken and provide a refreshing contrast.
6. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A stir-fry of mixed vegetables, such as carrots, snap peas, and mushrooms, can add extra crunch and flavor to your meal.
7. Sweet and Sour Sauce: A classic Chinese sauce that goes well with Crispy Almond Chicken Breast. Its tangy and sweet flavors complement the savory flavors of the chicken perfectly. Hibachi chicken recipe.

---

Storing and Freezing Crispy Almond Chicken Breast

After making a delicious batch of Crispy Almond Chicken Breast, proper storing is essential to maintaining its texture and flavor. Here are my tips for storing this dish:

1 Storing leftovers:

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it.
• Transfer the chicken to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to four days.
• To keep the chicken crispy, store it separately from the sauce.

---

2 Freezing leftovers:

• If you want to freeze the chicken, start by flash-freezing it. Transfer the cooled chicken onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each nugget. 
• Freeze for 30-60 minutes until solid, then store in zip-top bags or airtight containers in the freezer for up to 4 months. 
• But remember that the sauce will not freeze well, so it's best to make a fresh batch of gravy when you're ready to reheat and serve the frozen chicken.

---

How to Keep Your Crispy Almond Chicken Breast from Going Soggy

If you want to reheat your leftover Crispy Almond Chicken Breast and keep it just as crunchy and delicious as when it was first made, there are several methods you can try. In my experience, the oven and air fryer methods work best and yield the best results. Here are the different ways and how to use them:

1. Oven: Preheat the range to 375°F. Place the leftover chicken on a wire rack on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until crispy and hot.
2. Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Add the leftover chicken in a single layer, spray with oil, and air fry for 5-8 minutes or until crispy and hot.
3. Toaster Oven: Preheat the toaster oven to 375°F. Place the chicken on a wire rack on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and hot.

Which method would you recommend that best reheat the leftover?

Of the methods mentioned, the oven and air fryer are the best options to reheat leftover crispy almond chicken breast as they will help retain the crispiness of the chicken. 

• If using the oven, preheat to 350°F, place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. 
• For the air fryer, preheat to 375°F, place the chicken in a single layer, and cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. It's best to avoid using the microwave as it may result in the chicken becoming soggy.

---

Making ahead:

If you're planning ahead for a special occasion or want to have some Crispy Almond Chicken Breast ready to go, follow these steps to ensure a fresh and delicious taste.

• Fry the chicken for only 2-3 minutes, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. 
• On the day of serving, fry the chicken once again for 1-2 minutes to achieve the perfect crispiness.

---

FAQs related to crispy almond chicken breast

Is it possible to use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken if preferred. However, the cooking time may vary, so it's recommended to use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature has reached 165°F.

---

Can I use a gluten-free flour alternative for this recipe?

You can use gluten-free flour such as rice flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. However, the texture and flavor of the chicken may be slightly different.

---

Can I use a different nut instead of almonds for the crispy coating?

Yes, you can use other nuts, such as pecans or cashews, but the flavor and texture of the chicken will be different.

---

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

---

Can I make Crispy Almond Chicken Breast without a deep fryer?

You can use an air fryer or bake the chicken in the oven. See above for tips on how to do this.

---

Can I freeze the chicken and reheat it later?

You can freeze and reheat the chicken later, but the texture may differ slightly. See above for tips on how to properly freeze and reheat the chicken.

---

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

You can use oils such as canola or vegetable oil, but avoid oils with a low smoke point, like olive oil.

---

How can I adjust the recipe to make it spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce to the sauce for some extra heat. You can also add some cayenne pepper to the dredge mixture.

---

Can I double-fry the chicken for even crispier results?

Yes, double-frying the chicken can result in an even crispier texture. After frying the chicken once, let it cool before frying it again for 1-2 minutes.

---

How to make almond flakes at home:

Full Recipe