Name: Paleo Chicken Fingers Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Paleo
Ingredients: 1/4 cup coconut oil; 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; 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for sprinkling during frying); 2 large eggs (whisked)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 10 reviews

If you’re on the lookout for a crunchy, flavorful, and wholesome snack or meal, this Paleo Chicken Fingers Recipe is going to steal your heart. Perfectly golden, tender inside, and coated with a garlicky, Italian-seasoned almond crust, these chicken fingers bring that nostalgic comfort food feeling without any of the guilt. Whether you’re following a paleo lifestyle or simply craving a healthier twist on a classic favorite, these chicken fingers deliver everything you want—crispiness, juiciness, and a burst of taste in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate holds three long pieces of raw chicken covered in a light, crumbly coating with a pale beige and speckled texture, showing a mix of small crumbs and seasoning. The chicken underneath is a soft pale pink, clearly visible under the crumb layer. The plate sits on a table with a dark wood color, and in the background, two white bowls are seen, one filled with a yellow egg wash and the other with a coarse seasoning mix. The overall scene feels like a preparation step for breaded chicken, with the white marbled texture surface implied in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Paleo Chicken Fingers Recipe is in its simplicity: every ingredient is essential and plays a key role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. From the creamy almond flour crust that crisps up nicely to the aromatic Italian seasoning that gives it character, each component brings something special to the table.

Coconut oil: Use 1/4 cup for frying to achieve that perfect golden crust and add subtle tropical notes.
Boneless skinless chicken tenderloins: 2 pounds for juicy, tender pieces that cook quickly and evenly.
Almond flour: 1 cup, a grain-free base for a crunchy, nutty coating that’s key to paleo-friendly breading.
Tapioca starch: 3 tablespoons to add extra crispiness and help the coating stick better.
Garlic salt: 1½ teaspoons to infuse the crust with savory garlic goodness.
Salt: 1 teaspoon to balance flavors and enhance the overall taste.
Italian seasoning: 2 teaspoons, a fragrant blend that adds herbal depth and warmth.
Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon for a subtle, background kick of spice.
Large eggs: 2 whisked, the essential binder that helps the coating adhere perfectly to the chicken.
Paprika: ½ teaspoon for a final sprinkle that delivers a pop of color and a slight smoky sweetness.

How to Make Paleo Chicken Fingers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the frying oil

Start by heating 1/4 cup coconut oil in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, aiming for a temperature near 350ºF. This ensures your chicken fingers will fry evenly, crisping to golden perfection without absorbing too much oil.

Step 2: Mix the dry coating

While the oil heats, combine your almond flour, tapioca starch, garlic salt, regular salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper in a bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients well brings together wonderful aromas that will coat your chicken beautifully and add multiple layers of flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the egg wash

Whisk two large eggs in a separate bowl. This egg wash is crucial—it acts like glue, ensuring your seasoned almond flour mixture sticks tightly to every tender piece of chicken.

Step 4: Coat the chicken

Now for the fun part. Dip each chicken tenderloin first into the whisked eggs, letting any excess drip off. Then dredge thoroughly in your almond flour mixture, pressing gently to create an even, thick coating that will crisp up delightfully while frying.

Step 5: Fry to golden perfection

Carefully place the coated chicken fingers into the hot coconut oil. Fry each side for about 4 minutes, turning once the first side reaches a beautiful golden brown. Depending on thickness, the second side might need an extra 1 to 2 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through with no pink inside and the exterior irresistibly crisp.

Step 6: Add paprika and rest

In the last minute of frying, sprinkle paprika over the chicken for that lovely reddish hue and a subtle smoky lift. Once cooked, transfer the chicken fingers onto a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any extra oil, keeping them crispy and perfect.

How to Serve Paleo Chicken Fingers Recipe

The image shows several pieces of golden-brown breaded fried fish fillets with a crispy texture, placed close together in a white pan. The fillets have a rough and crunchy coating with small herb and breadcrumb bits visible, covering the thick white fish inside. The breading has an uneven, lightly browned surface with darker spots, giving a crunchy look. The fish is arranged to fill the pan, with some fillets overlapping slightly, all sitting on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dusting of extra paprika makes these paleo chicken fingers look irresistible on the plate. You can also add a wedge of lemon for guests to squeeze over for a bright, zesty contrast that cuts through the richness.

Side Dishes

Pair with classic paleo-friendly sides like roasted vegetables, crispy sweet potato fries, or a refreshing mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette. For a cozy, comforting meal, try serving these chicken fingers alongside spaghetti squash with a rich tomato or marinara sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Serve these Paleo Chicken Fingers Recipe bites with a trio of dipping sauces such as paleo ranch, spicy avocado mayo, and a tangy barbecue sauce. Arrange the fingers on a rustic wooden board alongside fresh veggie sticks to elevate your appetizer game, perfect for gatherings or a fun family dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them on a wire rack or paper towel helps retain their crisp texture by preventing sogginess.

Freezing

To freeze, let the chicken fingers cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to a month, providing a quick paleo-friendly snack anytime.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated chicken fingers in a preheated oven at 375ºF for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soft, losing that delightful crunch you love.

FAQs

Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour in this Paleo Chicken Fingers Recipe?

Coconut flour behaves very differently than almond flour—it’s much more absorbent and can make the coating dry and crumbly. For the best texture and taste, it’s recommended to stick with almond flour.

Is tapioca starch necessary in this recipe?

Yes, tapioca starch adds a nice crispy texture that almond flour alone can’t provide. It also helps the coating stick better to the chicken, resulting in those perfect, crunchy fingers.

Can I bake the chicken fingers instead of frying?

While frying gives the best crispiness, you can definitely bake them. Arrange coated chicken fingers on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray lightly with coconut oil, and bake at 400ºF for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Are these chicken fingers suitable for kids?

Absolutely! These Paleo Chicken Fingers Recipe bites are mild in flavor, tender, and crunchy, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. Serve with their favorite dipping sauce for a fun, family-friendly meal.

What dipping sauces pair well?

Try paleo ranch, homemade honey mustard, or a simple guacamole for dipping. These options complement the flavors perfectly while keeping things healthy and delicious.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into these crunchy, flavorful chicken fingers that feel naughty but are actually wholesome and nourishing. This Paleo Chicken Fingers Recipe is straightforward, quick, and endlessly satisfying whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. I promise once you try them, they’ll become a delicious staple in your cooking rotation too!