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When following a keto or low-carb diet, it can be hard to stay on track. This is especially true when you limit yourself to boring meals that actually look like diet food. Ever since I started eating low carb, I have noticed many benefits that lead me to believe that I will be eating this way for the rest of my life. I finally understand what people mean when they say that the keto diet isn’t just a diet, it’s a lifestyle.

For me, that means that once I start double fisting popeyes chicken and biscuits again, I will gain weight and a slew of other ailments will return. I will get that brain fog that was gone, start to notice my achy joints, get a bloated feeling that never goes away, and feel like I have no energy.

That sounds miserable and much worse than cutting down on carbs in my opinion. So instead of heading to my local chicken place, I started experimenting with crispy low-carb fried chicken in my kitchen and the results are amazing.

What Makes this Low Carb Fried Chicken?

Instead of using traditional ingredients to make fried chicken, I have swapped out a couple of ingredients with keto-friendly ones. This is pretty easy to do when you already have keto-friendly ingredients on hand.

Traditional fried chicken uses all-purpose flour and this low-carb fried chicken uses almond flour which is a delicious alternative and works really well in this recipe.

Variations on this Recipe

This recipe can be used for many different cuts of chicken. You can even use this same batter and breading for Keto Fried Chicken Wings. I think it comes out best when deep-fried but you can cook this same recipe in the oven. I would suggest spraying the outside of the chicken with olive oil before baking for a more crispy outcome.

If you prefer to not use almond flour, you can make a keto-friendly version of this recipe without it. You can prepare a similar seasoning and coat the chicken with pork rinds, then cook in the oven for a non-fry alternative to this low-carb chicken. Just be sure to cook the chicken longer if you do decide to bake it in the oven. This could take 35-40 minutes in an oven set at 400 degrees.

Spicy Low Carb Fried Chicken

If you prefer a spicy fried chicken, add a few tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce to the batter before coating the chicken. Another great way to add in a little bit of spice is to soak the chicken in a hot sauce and the batter mixture, stored in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before breading.

Adding more cayenne pepper to the breading will kick up the spice level, too.

Using both of these methods will result in a very spicy low-carb fried chicken recipe.

What Cut of Chicken is Best?

When making crispy low-carb fried chicken, I have found that using chicken thighs with the skin still on is best. If you prefer drumsticks, this will work as well but the chicken thighs have a bunch of folds that allow the breading to settle and crisp perfectly.

This recipe will work for boneless skinless breasts but you will not have that perfectly crispy skin that comes with using chicken thighs. Although you will still have a delicious low-carb fried chicken, no matter which cut you prefer to use.

What Kind of Oil Can I Use?

Depending on your cooking method, you can switch up the type of oil used to make this low-carb fried chicken. My deep fryer recommends vegetable oil, canola oil, and peanut oil.

Be sure to check the instructions on your machine before adding oil and adjust the cooking times accordingly.

If using a skillet, you can use coconut oil which is a healthy alternative to vegetable oil.

Products to Make this Recipe Easier

A good deep fryer is essential. I use this deep fryer but this deep fryer has three baskets and that may make separating the chicken easier when frying.

Another important tool that makes this recipe easier to make is a rack and baking sheet to help remove excess oil.

I also use wax paper to catch the excess oil instead of letting it hit the baking sheet.

Another tool that really helps with the deep frying portion of this recipe is a good set of tongs. Tongs can be useful for adding or removing the chicken from the deep fryer without removing the breading.

How to Make Low Carb Fried Chicken

Low Carb Fried Chicken Breading

For the breading, mix together the Almond Flour, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, White Pepper, Cayenne Pepper, Salt, Pepper, Parmesan Cheese in a bowl, set aside.

Low Carb Fried Chicken Batter

For the batter, beat eggs and heavy cream in a different bowl, set aside.

Directions for Frying in a Deep Fryer

Fill deep fryer with oil according to the deep fryer instructions. Heat to 375 degrees.

Cook in batches, depending on the size of the chicken and the basket. Be careful to not overlap the pieces. Cooking two at a time works for most deep fryers.

Cook for about 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.

Place each piece on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet lined with paper to catch the drippings, I use wax paper. Store inside a closed oven to stay warm while cooking the rest of the chicken.

Side Dish Ideas

The side dish possibilities are endless but my favorite dish to pair with this low-carb fried chicken is a delicious salad drizzled with this homemade easy vinaigrette dressing.

Adding a vegetable like broccoli or cauliflower, smothered in cheese is always a favorite in my household.

I hope you enjoyed this recipe and will come back to let me know what you think. If you loved it, please share it on your favorite social media so everyone can give it a try.

Don’t forget to sign up for the free newsletter and follow along on social media so that you never miss a recipe again!

Looking for More Low Carb Dinner Recipes?

Low Carb Chicken Alfredo Casserole

Shredded Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore

Keto Chicken & Rice Soup {Easy Keto Crockpot Dump Meal}

Low Carb Roasted Tomato Basil Soup with Keto Grilled Cheese

The Best Keto Stuffed Peppers

Looking for Quick Keto Dinner Ideas?

Make some of these recipes in as little as ten minutes! Others will only take 15 or 20 but none of these quick keto dinners will take longer than 30 minutes!

Crispy Low Carb Fried Chicken Without Pork Rinds

Print

Ingredients

• 8-10 Chicken Thighs (Depending on the size)
• 2 cups of Almond Flour
• 2 Tablespoons of Garlic Powder
• 1 Tablespoon Onion Powder
• 1/2 Tablespoon of White Pepper
• 1 Tablespoon of Cayenne Pepper
• 1/2 Teaspoon of Salt
• 1/4 Teaspoon of Pepper
• 1/ Cup of Parmesan Cheese
• 2 Eggs
• 1/4 Cup of Heavy Cream
• Oil for Frying

Instructions

For the breading, mix together the Almond Flour, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, White Pepper, Cayenne Pepper, Salt, Pepper, Parmesan Cheese in a bowl, set aside.

For the batter, beat eggs and heavy cream in a different bowl, set aside.

Fill deep fryer with oil according to the deep fryer instructions. Heat to 375 degrees.

Dip chicken into the batter, allow to drip off excess and then roll it in the breading. Shake off excess and then set aside.

Cook in batches, depending on the size of the chicken and the basket. Be careful to not overlap the pieces. Cooking two at a time works for most deep fryers.

Cook for about 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.

Place each piece on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet lined with paper to catch the drippings, I use wax paper. Store inside a closed oven to stay warm while cooking the rest of the chicken.

About Thirty Something Super Mom

Melissa

Thirty Something Super Mom | Website

My journey started after a Crohn's disease diagnosis, inspiring a commitment to well-being. This site shares my distinctive approach to healthy living with my collection of nutritious recipes that boast authentic flavors, mimicking the indulgence of traditional dishes. I love sharing guilt free recipes for low carb, keto, gluten-free, paleo, and the specific carbohydrate diet. I also share tips on natural living, including homemade cleaners and cleaning hacks. I also share my experience as a veterinary technician and pet groomer, to integrate pet health tips, homemade dog food recipes, and grooming insights to ensure your pets thrive.