Name: Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken tenderloins; 1 cup almond flour; 3 tablespoons tapioca starch; 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 large eggs, whisked; 1/3 cup coconut oil (for frying); 1/2 teaspoon paprika

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Table of Contents: Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers

Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers

Remember those carefree days of crispy chicken fingers and dipping sauces? As we navigate life’s stages, prioritizing health doesn’t mean sacrificing those beloved flavors. These Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers bring back all the nostalgia, but with wholesome ingredients that nourish you and your family.

They’re a delicious way to enjoy a classic without the gluten, grains, or processed ingredients. Perfect for pleasing even the pickiest eaters!

These aren’t just any paleo chicken recipe; they’re infused with the vibrant flavors of Italy. We’ve swapped traditional breadcrumbs for a flavorful almond flour and tapioca starch blend, seasoned generously with Italian herbs and garlic. The result? Golden, crispy, and incredibly delicious gluten-free chicken fingers that are surprisingly easy to make.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, looking for a satisfying family dinner, or simply need a quick and healthy kid-friendly meal, these Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers are a guaranteed hit. They’re a fantastic alternative to heavily processed fast food options, offering a protein-packed and flavorful experience.

This recipe is designed to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a familiar comfort food experience while adhering to paleo principles. It’s a testament to the fact that healthy eating can be both enjoyable and convenient. We’ll walk you through each step, ensuring a perfect outcome every time. Get ready to rediscover a childhood favorite, reimagined for a modern, health-conscious lifestyle!

Alternate Names & Variations

You might also find recipes for these under names like:

* Paleo Chicken Strips
* Gluten-Free Italian Chicken
* Almond Flour Chicken Fingers
* Paleo Chicken Nuggets (if cut smaller)
* Baked Paleo Chicken Tenders

For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breading. You can also experiment with different Italian herb blends to customize the flavor. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, consider swapping the Italian seasoning for a lemon-pepper blend for a refreshing paleo chicken variation.

Ingredients: Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers:

* 2 lbs boneless, skinless Chicken Tenderloins
* 1 cup Almond Flour (blanched, finely ground)
* 3 tablespoons Tapioca Starch (also known as tapioca flour)

* 1 ½ teaspoons Garlic Salt
* 1 teaspoon Salt (sea salt or kosher salt recommended)
* 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning (a blend of oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, etc.)
* ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground is best!)
* 2 large Eggs, whisked
* ⅓ cup Coconut Oil, for frying (refined coconut oil has a higher smoke point)

* ½ teaspoon Paprika (adds a lovely color and subtle flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make these Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps the breading adhere better. If the tenderloins are very long, you can cut them in half for more manageable “finger” size.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, whisk together the almond flour, tapioca starch, garlic salt, salt, Italian seasoning, paprika, and black pepper. Ensure everything is well combined for even seasoning. Chef’s Tip: Sifting the almond flour can help prevent clumping.
3. Dip in Egg: In a separate shallow dish, whisk the eggs until light and frothy. Dip each chicken tenderloin into the whisked eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
4. Coat with Breading: Immediately transfer the egg-coated chicken to the almond flour mixture. Press the flour mixture firmly onto the chicken, coating it completely. Shortcut: Use tongs to easily maneuver the chicken through the egg and flour.

5. Heat the Oil: Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small piece of breading sizzles immediately upon contact.
6. Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the breaded chicken tenderloins into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Drain and Serve: Remove the fried chicken fingers from the skillet and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite paleo-friendly dipping sauce. Chef’s Tip: A simple marinara sauce or a creamy avocado dip pairs perfectly with these Italian flavors.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

These Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers come together quickly! Prep time is approximately 15 minutes, and cook time is around 10-12 minutes. The total time from start to finish is about 25-27 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.

The approximate calorie count per serving is around 350-400, depending on the amount of oil absorbed.

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This recipe works because it perfectly balances flavor and texture while staying true to paleo principles. The almond flour provides a nutty flavor and a surprisingly crispy coating, while the tapioca starch helps bind everything together. The Italian seasoning adds a delightful aromatic complexity that elevates these paleo chicken fingers beyond the ordinary.

It’s easy comfort food for family dinners that doesn’t leave you feeling sluggish or guilty. Using refined coconut oil ensures a neutral flavor and a higher smoke point, preventing the oil from burning and imparting an unpleasant taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings! A little smoked paprika can add a delicious smoky flavor, or a pinch of cayenne pepper can provide a subtle heat.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Leftover Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other.

For longer storage, you can freeze these gluten-free chicken fingers. Place the cooled chicken fingers in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 30 minutes. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

To reheat, the best method is to bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a quicker and even crispier result. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.

People Also Ask: Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers

Here are some frequently asked questions about these Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers:

How do you make Italian paleo chicken fingers?

These Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers are made by coating chicken tenderloins in a breading mixture of almond flour, tapioca starch, Italian seasoning, garlic salt, salt, paprika, and black pepper. The chicken is first dipped in whisked eggs to help the breading adhere, then fried in coconut oil until golden brown and cooked through.

It’s a simple process that delivers a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional chicken fingers. The key is to ensure the oil is hot enough and not to overcrowd the pan, allowing each finger to crisp up beautifully.

What ingredients are used for paleo breading?

The foundation of paleo breading typically involves nut flours, like almond flour, and starches, such as tapioca starch or arrowroot starch. These ingredients mimic the texture of traditional breadcrumbs without containing grains or gluten.

We also use a generous blend of Italian seasoning, garlic salt, salt, paprika, and black pepper to create a flavorful and satisfying coating for our Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers. Some recipes also incorporate coconut flour or finely ground cauliflower.

Are these chicken fingers gluten-free?

Yes, these Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers are absolutely gluten-free! We specifically avoid all gluten-containing ingredients, such as wheat flour, breadcrumbs, and traditional coatings. The recipe relies on almond flour and tapioca starch, which are naturally gluten-free alternatives. This makes them a safe and delicious option for individuals with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or those simply following a gluten-free diet.

Can I bake or air fry them?

Absolutely! While frying provides the most authentic crispy texture, you can definitely bake or air fry these Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers for a healthier option. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For air frying, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The texture won’t be quite as crispy as frying, but it will still be delicious and satisfying.

Conclusion: Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers

So there you have it – a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic comfort food! I truly believe these Italian Paleo Chicken Fingers will become a staple in your kitchen. They’re quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful. Don’t hesitate to give them a try and let me know what you think in the comments below.

I love hearing about your cooking adventures! Share your photos and variations – let’s inspire each other to eat healthy without sacrificing taste.