Almond chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with the crunch and nutty flavor of almonds. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for guests, almond chicken is a versatile recipe that’s both flavorful and satisfying. In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make almond chicken step-by-step, including some tasty variations and tips to customize it to your liking.
What Is Almond Chicken?
Almond chicken typically features chicken pieces cooked with almonds, often accompanied by a savory sauce and vegetables. The almonds add a wonderful crunch and a subtle sweetness that complements the savory chicken perfectly. There are different styles of almond chicken, including stir-fried versions with veggies and saucy coatings, or oven-baked almond-crusted chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy inside.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a basic list of ingredients for a classic almond chicken recipe:
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or cutlets
– Sliced almonds or ground almonds (for crust)
– Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and onions (optional)
– Garlic and ginger for flavor
– Soy sauce or a savory stir-fry sauce
– Cooking oil (vegetable or avocado oil)
– Salt and pepper for seasoning
– Optional: Parmesan cheese, flour, eggs, and spices like paprika and onion powder for coating
How to Make Almond Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces or thin cutlets, depending on your preference. Season with salt and pepper. For a crispy baked version, you can coat the chicken in a mixture of ground almonds, Parmesan cheese, and spices, dipping the chicken first in beaten egg to help the coating stick.
2. Cook the Vegetables (Optional)
If you want a stir-fry style almond chicken, sauté your choice of vegetables like onions, bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms in a hot pan with some oil. Cook for about 4-6 minutes until tender, then remove them from the pan.
3. Cook the Chicken
For stir-fry: In the same pan, add more oil and brown the chicken pieces on both sides until cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
For baked almond chicken: Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet, spray with cooking spray or drizzle olive oil, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F to 450°F for about 18-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should be golden and crispy.
4. Make the Sauce
While the chicken cooks, prepare a sauce to add flavor. A simple stir-fry sauce can be made by whisking together soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, and a bit of chicken stock or water. Simmer it in the pan for a few minutes to thicken. Alternatively, you can make a creamy almond gravy by cooking flour and avocado oil into a paste, then adding almond butter, soy sauce, chicken stock, garlic, and green onions, simmering until thickened.
5. Combine and Finish
If stir-frying, add the cooked vegetables back to the pan with the chicken and pour the sauce over everything. Stir well to coat and heat through for a couple of minutes.
For baked chicken, serve the crispy almond-crusted chicken with a side of the almond gravy or a honey mustard sauce made from Greek yogurt, mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
6. Add the Almonds
Sprinkle toasted or sliced almonds on top just before serving to add an extra crunch and enhance the nutty flavor.
Recipe Variations and Tips
– Meat Alternatives: Swap chicken with beef, pork, shrimp, lamb, or turkey for a different protein twist.
– Vegetarian Version: Use firm tofu instead of chicken for a plant-based option.
– Veggie Choices: Feel free to add snow peas, carrots, broccoli, bok choy, or celery to your stir-fry.
– Spicy Kick: Add fresh jalapeños or chili flakes to the sauce if you like it spicy.
– Nut Substitutes: Cashews, hazelnuts, or pecans can replace almonds if needed.
– Cooking Method: Try oven-baking for a healthier, hands-off approach or stir-frying for a quick meal.
– Add Eggs: Incorporate scrambled eggs into the stir-fry for extra protein and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Almond chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh green salad. For a low-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside roasted vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs to brighten the dish.
Almond chicken is a delicious, adaptable recipe that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you prefer it stir-fried with veggies or oven-baked with a crunchy almond crust, this dish brings great flavor and texture to your table. Give it a try and enjoy a tasty meal that’s both comforting and nutritious!