Almond-Crusted Chicken with Sumac Salad

This Almond-Crusted Chicken with Marinated Kale and Sumac Salad is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The crunchy, nutty coating of the chicken pairs perfectly with the bright, citrusy notes of the massaged kale salad, making it a satisfying and wholesome choice for any dinner.

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The secret to this dish is the marinated kale, where the leaves are massaged with olive oil and lemon juice to ensure a tender bite. Combined with the earthy flavor of sumac and toasted almonds, it provides a vibrant contrast to the savory, Parmesan-infused chicken crust.

Ingredients

• For the Almond-Crusted Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup almond meal or finely ground almonds
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
• For the Marinated Kale and Sumac Salad:
• 1 large bunch kale, stems removed, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tsp sumac
• 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a shallow bowl, combine almond meal, Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3

In another bowl, beat the eggs.

Step 4

Pat chicken breasts dry. Dip each breast first in the eggs, then coat thoroughly with the almond mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 5

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.

Step 6

Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).

Step 7

While chicken bakes, prepare the salad: In a large bowl, massage kale with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt until leaves soften (about 2 minutes).

Step 8

Add red onion, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and sumac to the kale. Toss well.

Step 9

Top salad with toasted slivered almonds just before serving.

Step 10

Serve almond-crusted chicken alongside the marinated kale and sumac salad.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the most flavorful results, do not skip searing the chicken in the skillet before baking; this step locks in the juices and creates a beautiful golden-brown exterior. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily substitute the chicken breasts with turkey cutlets for a similar result. For extra texture and a burst of sweetness, try adding pomegranate seeds or thinly sliced radishes to the marinated kale salad.

Serviervorschläge

This wholesome meal pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir. Serve it immediately while the chicken is warm and the crust is at its crunchiest for the best dining experience.

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With its satisfying crunch and vibrant salad, this Almond-Crusted Chicken is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, gourmet-style dinner at home. It is simple enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for weekend guests.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute the almond meal with another coating?

Yes, you can use crushed pork rinds for a keto option, or panko breadcrumbs if gluten-free is not required. Both will provide a satisfying crunch.

→ What can I use instead of sumac?

If sumac is unavailable, substitute with a combination of lemon zest and a pinch of paprika to mimic its tangy, citrusy flavor profile.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the breast. The juices should run clear.

→ Can I prepare the kale salad in advance?

Yes, massage and marinate the kale up to 2 hours ahead. Add tomatoes, onions, and almonds just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

→ What other greens work well in this salad?

Lacinato kale, Swiss chard, or baby spinach are excellent alternatives. Adjust massaging time based on the tenderness of the greens you choose.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version that still provides savory depth to the coating.