Almond Flour Fried Chicken

Can you have fried chicken if you are eating keto or paleo?  Some will say you can't, but you can!  You can do this with almond flour or almond meal!  This Almond Flour Fried Chicken recipe is delicious and actually quite easy to make.

Jump to:

• About the Chicken
• Pan Fried vs. Oven Baked?
• Best oil to pan fry chicken
• How to cook almond flour fried chicken
• Almond Flour Fried Chicken Recipe
• Pin for later!
• More Delicious Keto and Paleo Recipes!

I'm so glad I was able to make this, by the way, because fried chicken is one of my favorite foods EVER.  It's always difficult to completely give something up you love so much if you are on a diet. 

About the Chicken

Note about the chicken - I prefer to use Chicken thighs, as I find that it cooks juicier. However, you are welcome to use white meat if that is your preference. (Learn more about white vs. dark meats here.)

Pan Fried vs. Oven Baked?

This Paleo and Keto Fried Chicken is pan fried. However, if you prefer you can also bake it in the oven! If you're going the oven route, bake at 350 degrees F. Bake in oven for 30 minutes, then turn pieces over and bake for another 30 minutes.

Best oil to pan fry chicken

The best oil for frying chicken is really any oil that has a high smoke point. This includes avocado oil, vegetable oil, or peanut oil, or grape seed oil.

I don't recommend using olive oil or coconut oil as it is not good with high heat.

How to cook almond flour fried chicken

First gather your ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs
• 1 cup almond flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Dash of cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper, as desired
• Cooking oil/fat of your choice

Instructions

Crack the eggs in a bowl and whisk.

In another bowl, mix all the dry ingredients together (almond flour/meal, paprika, garlic powder, salt/pepper and cayenne pepper if you want a kick!).

Dip the chicken thigh in to the bowl of eggs, then in to the flour mixture.

Heat up your cooking oil in a pan on medium heat. Note about the heat: Almond flour/meal burns more easily than normal flour, which means that if the heat is too high, you will end up with some burnt friend chicken 🙁 so start at medium, and bump down the heat and cook longer as needed!

Once your oil is heated and ready, place your chicken pieces in to the pan slowly. Do not crowd the chicken (this will also help it not burn).

Cook the chicken for about 10 minutes, and then using tongs, flip them over to the other side. Now, cook for another 10-15 minutes or until juices run clear.  (Remember the note from before, that if the chicken is burning, to bump down heat/cook longer!)

And that's it!  When complete, put aside on some paper towels if you want to make it a little bit less greasy, but when I make this, I don't even do that as they don't usually turn out too greasy for me.

Storage, Reheating & FAQ

How to Store Leftover Fried Chicken

Let the chicken cool completely before storing. Place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Storing while still warm can cause condensation, which may make the coating soggy.

Can You Freeze Almond Flour Fried Chicken?

Yes - but note that almond flour breading can lose some crispness after thawing. To freeze, arrange the fried chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Use within 2 months.

Best Way to Reheat Fried Chicken

• Oven (best for crispiness): Preheat to 375°F, place chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet, and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Air fryer: 350°F for 5-8 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving unless you don't mind a softer coating - it tends to make the breading soggy.

Is This Fried Chicken Keto and Paleo?

Yes! Both keto and paleo diets avoid traditional wheat flour, and this recipe uses almond flour/meal instead. Just make sure any seasonings you add don't contain hidden sugars or starches.

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?

Yes. Chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily, so keep an eye on the internal temperature and remove them when they hit 165°F.

Can I Bake Instead of Fry?

Absolutely. Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, flip, then bake for another 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Pin for later!

More Delicious Keto and Paleo Recipes!

• Keto Ranch Burgers (Paleo, Whole30) - These juicy, flavorful burgers are packed with herby ranch seasoning, making them a fun twist on classic burgers without any dairy or processed ingredients. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner!
• Venison Chili Recipe (Paleo, Keto, Whole30) - This hearty, protein-packed chili swaps beef for venison, giving it a rich, slightly gamey flavor that's perfect for cozy nights. Plus, it's loaded with veggies and totally bean-free, keeping it low-carb and paleo-friendly.
• Thai Cilantro Chicken - If you love bright, fresh flavors, this one's for you! This Thai-inspired dish features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a zesty cilantro and lime mixture - super easy, super flavorful, and naturally low-carb.
• Keto Egg Roll in a Bowl - All the savory, garlicky goodness of an egg roll, but without the wrapper! This one-pan meal is quick, satisfying, and packed with veggies, making it a keto and paleo favorite for busy nights.