If you want chicken fingers but want to eat healthier or paleo, I can help you! As a food blogger who has been on a paleo diet for years and a huge fan of chicken tenders, I have perfected a recipe that always makes golden, sticky paleo chicken fingers. Plus, I have figured out how to keep that crispy crust!
Reader, Amy, said: “I truly can’t say enough good things about this recipe! Tonight was our second time making the chicken tenders and they were even better than the first time! This time we ensured to shake off the excess egg and let the tenders rest in the fridge for an hour which really helped the breading stay together! Thank you so much! This is a forever staple in our home now! ★★★★★“.
We all have those moments when we crave comfort food, and nothing beats good old chicken fingers. But, sometimes, I crave that crispy goodness without the excess oil. Thats where these babies come in – theyre a healthier twist on everyones favorite comfort food! These guys have become a family favorite for us – theyre sticky, sweet, and perfectly spiced. Weve made them many times over the past few years and never seem to tire of them. Our little girl loves them as much as we do. What I like most about them is that they taste like something that shouldn’t be healthy, but it is!
The Paleolithic diet, which focuses on whole, unprocessed foods, tells us how to cook and eat chicken. This is what “Paleo chicken” means. This usually means that the chicken is organic and free-range, and that grains, legumes, refined sugars, and heavily processed oils are not used in the cooking process. Instead, it focuses on cooking methods and seasonings that are similar to what our ancestors could have found.
Understanding the Paleo Diet and Chicken
The Paleo diet, which is also known as the Caveman Diet, Ancestral Diet, or Stone Age Diet, is based on what early humans are thought to have eaten in the Paleolithic era, before farming and widespread grain production. Followers think that our bodies were better able to handle the foods that were available back then.
- Meat (including poultry)
- Fish
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Nuts
- Seeds
The diet generally excludes grains, legumes, dairy, processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats. Chicken, as a lean protein, fits well into this framework. However, preparation is key for it to be true “Paleo chicken.”
How to Make Your Chicken Paleo-Friendly
Simply eating chicken doesn’t automatically make it “Paleo. “The key is in the preparation, cooking method, and sides.”
Choosing the Right Chicken
Go for free-range pasture-raised organic chicken when possible. These chickens often have a healthier diet, leading to more beneficial nutrients and fewer harmful toxins. They also represent a more ethical, sustainable choice.
Avoid processed chicken like breaded chicken, nuggets, or anything with added sugars, artificial flavors, or other processed ingredients.
Paleo-Friendly Cooking Methods
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Grilling – Imparts smoky flavor without added fats.
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Baking – Allows control of ingredients and avoids excess oil.
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Roasting – Great for cooking a whole chicken into a hearty Paleo meal.
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Pan-searing – Use healthy fats like avocado oil or coconut oil.
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Slow cooking – Results in tender, flavorful pulled chicken.
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Air frying – Quick and convenient with minimal added oil.
Flavoring Your Paleo Chicken
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Herbs and spices – Rosemary, thyme, garlic, onion, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper.
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Lemon and citrus – Brightens up dishes and adds tang.
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Vinegar – Balsamic, apple cider, etc. add depth.
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Healthy fats – Avocado oil, coconut oil, olive oil.
Paleo-Friendly Side Dishes
What you serve with the chicken is equally important:
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Roasted vegetables – Broccoli, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts.
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Salads with leafy greens, avocado, nuts and Paleo dressing.
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Cauliflower rice as a grain-free rice alternative.
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Sweet potato fries – Healthier than regular fries, baked or air fried.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paleo Chicken
Is all chicken Paleo-friendly?
Not necessarily. How it’s raised, processed and prepared affects its Paleo suitability. Nuggets, breaded chicken, etc. with added sugars or oils aren’t typically considered Paleo.
Can I eat fried chicken on the Paleo diet?
Traditional fried chicken isn’t Paleo because it’s breaded with flour and fried in unhealthy oils. But you can make a Paleo version with almond or coconut flour breading and frying in avocado oil or coconut oil.
What oil can I cook Paleo chicken in?
Good oils for cooking Paleo chicken include avocado oil, coconut oil, olive oil, and macadamia nut oil. Avoid vegetable oils like canola, soybean and corn oil.
What are some good Paleo chicken marinades?
Many tasty Paleo chicken marinade recipes exist using olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs like rosemary and thyme, spices like paprika and cayenne, apple cider vinegar, and coconut aminos.
Is rotisserie chicken Paleo?
Plain rotisserie chicken that doesn’t have any added sugars, MSG, or bad oils is often an easy Paleo choice. But always check the ingredients first.
Can I use soy sauce in Paleo chicken recipes?
Soy sauce isn’t Paleo due to the soybean processing and inclusion. A good alternative is coconut aminos which mimics the flavor.
Is chicken bone broth Paleo?
Yes, bone broth made from chicken is highly valued in the Paleo diet for its collagen, gelatin and mineral content. It supports gut health.
Are chicken eggs Paleo?
Yes, chicken eggs are a staple Paleo food. They provide nutrient-dense protein and healthy fats. Choose free-range or pasture-raised when possible.
Can I eat chicken skin on Paleo?
Yes, chicken skin is allowed on Paleo for its healthy fats, especially from pasture-raised chicken. But avoid skin fried in unhealthy oils.
What are some easy weeknight Paleo chicken recipes?
- Sheet pan chicken and veggies
- Grilled chicken with avocado salsa
- Lemon herb baked chicken
- Chicken stir fry with coconut aminos
How do I ensure safe Paleo chicken?
Always use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness.
Where can I find reliable Paleo chicken recipes?
Many Paleo-focused websites and cookbooks offer a variety of chicken recipes emphasizing whole, unprocessed ingredients. Look for recipes that avoid hidden sugars or unhealthy additives.
By following these tips, you can make delicious, nutritious Paleo chicken meals that support your health goals. Focus on quality ingredients, healthy cooking methods and flavorful seasonings to create satisfying dishes aligned with Paleo principles.
What to serve with baked paleo chicken tenders
Many times, I keep things very simple and serve them with vegetables or a big green salad with lettuce, tomato, and onion.
But sometimes its nice to make this an even heartier meal. If youre craving a salad, this Greek salad is paleo if you skip the feta cheese. The flavors also work well with this Asian salad.
Frequently asked questions about this recipe
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