If you’re on the lookout for a deliciously crunchy and protein-packed snack, look no further than these Almond-Crusted Chicken Bites with Honey-Mustard Dip. They’re perfect as an appetizer for a party, a fun after-school snack, or even a quick dinner option when you need something satisfying yet simple. With the nutty flavor of roasted almonds and the zing of honey-mustard dip, these bite-sized treats will likely become a staple in your home. Plus, they’re easy to whip up and can be made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen!
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Why You’ll Keep Making It
These Almond-Crusted Chicken Bites are not only delicious, but they also offer a variety of benefits that make them a go-to recipe. The crunchy almond coating provides a satisfying texture, while the chicken keeps things lean and protein-rich. The honey-mustard dip adds a delightful tang that complements the chicken perfectly. Not to mention, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Once you’ve tried them, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again.
What Goes In
To create these delightful Almond-Crusted Chicken Bites with Honey-Mustard Dip, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3/4 cup roasted and salted almonds – These will be blended into a fine crumb for the coating.
- 1/2 pound chicken breast – Cut into bite-sized cubes; this is the star of the dish.
- Salt – Just a pinch to enhance the flavors.
- 1 large egg white – This helps the almond crust adhere to the chicken.
- 1/2 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt – A healthy base for the dip.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard – Adds a zesty kick to the dip.
- 2 teaspoons honey – Sweetens the dip and balances the flavors.
- Pinch of salt – To season the dip.
What’s in the Gear List
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following gear on hand:
- Food processor – For grinding the almonds into crumbs.
- Mixing bowls – You’ll need them for the chicken and the dip.
- Baking sheet – To bake the chicken bites in the oven.
- Parchment paper – Optional, but it makes for easy cleanup.
- Whisk – To combine the ingredients for the dip.
Cook Almond-Crusted Chicken Bites with Honey-Mustard Dip Like This
Ready to make some delicious Almond-Crusted Chicken Bites? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken bites will cook evenly and get that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Almond Coating
In your food processor, add the roasted and salted almonds. Pulse until they reach a fine crumb consistency, similar to breadcrumbs. Be careful not to over-process, or you’ll end up with almond butter!
Step 3: Season the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken cubes with a pinch of salt. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken before it’s coated.
Step 4: Create the Egg White Mixture
In another bowl, whisk the egg white until slightly frothy. This will act as the adhesive for the almond crumbs.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken cube into the egg white, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, roll the chicken in the almond crumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken Bites
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the coated chicken bites in a single layer on the sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the almond crust is golden brown.
Step 7: Prepare the Honey-Mustard Dip
While the chicken is baking, make the dip. In a small bowl, combine the plain nonfat Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and well-combined.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken bites are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with the honey-mustard dip on the side. Enjoy your Almond-Crusted Chicken Bites with Honey-Mustard Dip!
Budget & Availability Swaps
If you’re looking to tweak this recipe based on what you have on hand or your budget, consider the following swaps:
- Almonds – Swap with other nuts like cashews or walnuts for a different flavor.
- Chicken breast – Use chicken thighs for a juicier bite or even turkey for a leaner option.
- Greek yogurt – Substitute with sour cream or a non-dairy yogurt for a different taste or dietary preference.
- Dijon mustard – Use yellow mustard or whole-grain mustard if that’s what you have.
What Could Go Wrong
Every recipe has its pitfalls, and here are a few to watch out for:
- Over-processing the almonds can lead to almond butter instead of crumbs.
- Not allowing the chicken to bake long enough can result in undercooked meat.
- Skipping the egg white step may cause the almond coating to fall off during baking.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet can lead to uneven cooking.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
If you find yourself with leftover Almond-Crusted Chicken Bites, here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze – Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
- Reheat – To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring the coating stays crispy.
FAQ
Can I make these chicken bites ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken bites and store them in the fridge before baking. Just remember to bake them fresh before serving for the best texture.
Can I use different nuts for the coating?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nuts like pecans or hazelnuts for a unique flavor profile.
What can I serve with these chicken bites besides honey-mustard dip?
These bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dips, such as ranch, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
How do I ensure the chicken stays moist?
Be sure not to overcook the chicken and consider marinating it briefly in yogurt or a spice blend to enhance moisture and flavor.
Final Bite
These Almond-Crusted Chicken Bites with Honey-Mustard Dip are an absolute crowd-pleaser! They bring together a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that is sure to impress. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering, enjoying them as a family snack, or simply treating yourself, they are bound to become a favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in these tasty bites that are both nutritious and satisfying. Happy cooking!
Almond-Crusted Chicken Bites with Honey-Mustard Dip
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for even cooking and a golden crust.
- Step 2: In your food processor, pulse the roasted almonds until they reach a fine crumb consistency.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, toss chicken cubes with a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
- Step 4: Whisk the egg white in another bowl until slightly frothy to use as adhesive.
- Step 5: Dip each chicken cube into the egg white, then roll in almond crumbs, pressing gently.
- Step 6: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, arrange chicken bites, and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Step 7: While baking, combine Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, and salt in a small bowl to make the dip.
- Step 8: Once baked, cool slightly and serve warm with the honey-mustard dip on the side.
Notes
- Feel free to swap almonds with other nuts like cashews or walnuts.
- Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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