This Pistachio Crusted Chicken is the perfect low-carb alternative to traditional breaded chicken! It’s crispy, packed with flavor, and takes your chicken game to new heights. The combination of pistachios, sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, and garlic creates a delightful Mediterranean-inspired crust that adds a rich, nutty texture to your chicken. Serve it with a crunchy salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a flavorful appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 cup marinated artichokes in olive oil
1 cup roasted pistachios
4 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes marinated in olive oil
2-3 fresh garlic cloves
4-6 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 ½ tbsp white wine vinegar
4-5 fresh basil leaves
Sea salt & ground pepper to taste
2 lbs bone-in chicken thighs
½ – 1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp baking powder

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425°F.
In a food processor, add the artichokes, pistachios, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, basil, salt, and pepper. Pulse until combined, leaving some chunks for texture.
Season the chicken thighs with olive oil, smoked paprika, sea salt, pepper, and baking powder. Massage the seasoning into the chicken and let it sit for 30 minutes to 2 hours for full flavor absorption.
Place the chicken thighs on a large, oven-safe skillet in a single layer.
Spread about 1 tablespoon of the pistachio mixture on top of each piece of chicken, covering it well.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
After removing from the oven, top with additional crushed pistachios, fresh basil, and chili flakes for extra flavor and serve.

Nutrients

Calories: 380 kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 40g
Total Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 400mg
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 4g

A Healthy Alternative to Breaded Chicken

The Pistachio Crusted Chicken recipe stands out as a healthier alternative to traditional breaded chicken. Instead of using breadcrumbs or flour, this recipe utilizes pistachios to create a crunchy, flavorful crust. Pistachios are a fantastic source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a guilt-free yet satisfying meal. In addition to the pistachios, the recipe incorporates other nutritious ingredients like artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic, all of which enhance the flavor profile while adding a wealth of nutrients.

Unlike the often calorie-heavy breading used in traditional fried chicken recipes, the pistachio crust is lighter and lower in carbohydrates, making it a perfect option for those following low-carb or keto diets. The crust is also gluten-free, which makes it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. With a deliciously crispy exterior and juicy interior, this dish combines the best of both worlds—taste and health.

Mediterranean Flavors That Elevate Your Chicken

At the heart of this recipe is the Mediterranean-inspired crust, which features a blend of sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, garlic, and pistachios. These ingredients bring a burst of bright and earthy flavors that complement the richness of the chicken.

Sun-dried tomatoes bring an intense, tangy flavor that balances the natural sweetness of the chicken while contributing to the overall Mediterranean flair.
Artichokes add an earthy, slightly nutty flavor and bring extra fiber and antioxidants to the dish. The olive oil-packed artichokes are also high in healthy fats.
Garlic adds a savory punch, elevating the dish with its aromatic richness.
Basil and lemon juice round out the flavors, with the basil offering a fresh herbal note and the lemon providing a subtle citrusy kick.

Together, these ingredients create a depth of flavor that is both vibrant and comforting. The pistachios serve as the perfect base for this crust, adding a nutty richness that enhances the overall dish, making each bite satisfying.

How to Prepare the Perfect Pistachio Crusted Chicken

One of the most appealing aspects of the Pistachio Crusted Chicken is how easy it is to prepare. In just a few simple steps, you can have a gourmet meal ready in less than an hour. Here’s an overview of how this dish comes together:

Marinating the Chicken: The chicken thighs are seasoned with a combination of smoked paprika, sea salt, black pepper, and baking powder, which helps to create a crisp exterior during baking. The chicken is allowed to marinate for anywhere between 30 minutes to 2 hours to ensure that the flavors fully absorb.
Making the Pistachio Crust: The star of the recipe is the pistachio crust, which is made by blending together artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, pistachios, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. This mixture forms a thick, flavorful paste that’s spread on top of each chicken thigh.
Baking the Chicken: The chicken thighs are placed in an oven-safe skillet, and the pistachio mixture is generously spread on top. The dish is then baked in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 35-40 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
Final Touches: Once the chicken is baked, it’s topped with additional crushed pistachios, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little extra heat and flavor.

Nutritional Benefits: A Protein-Packed Meal

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Each serving of Pistachio Crusted Chicken offers a hearty dose of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. The chicken thighs provide a high-quality source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.

The addition of pistachios provides heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which help reduce bad cholesterol levels and promote cardiovascular health. Pistachios also offer a good amount of fiber, which supports digestive health and helps you feel full longer, making this dish a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

The use of sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, and garlic contributes to the dish’s antioxidant content, helping to fight inflammation and support the immune system. These Mediterranean ingredients also provide a wide array of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium, all of which contribute to overall health.

Versatility: Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the standout features of this dish is its versatility. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a dinner party, or simply making a quick weeknight meal, Pistachio Crusted Chicken fits the bill. The dish can be paired with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, a fresh Mediterranean salad, or a side of low-carb rice or quinoa.

For those following a low-carb diet, the chicken pairs beautifully with a simple salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. For a more substantial meal, serve the chicken with roasted cauliflower or zucchini to keep the meal light yet satisfying.

The Pistachio Crusted Chicken is also great for meal prep. Once prepared, the chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days, making it an ideal option for quick, healthy lunches throughout the week. You can also freeze the chicken for later use, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful dish at any time.

Conclusion: A Flavorful, Healthy Dish for Every Occasion

In conclusion, Pistachio Crusted Chicken offers a unique twist on traditional breaded chicken. With its Mediterranean-inspired crust and healthy ingredients, this dish is the perfect option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful, low-carb meal without sacrificing taste or texture. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, lunch, or as an appetizer, this dish is sure to impress. It’s simple to prepare, packed with nutrients, and a great way to add variety to your weekly meal rotation. Give this Pistachio Crusted Chicken a try, and enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal that the whole family will love!

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