Name: Almond-Crusted Chicken Bites with Honey-Mustard Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup roasted and salted almonds (whole, crushed); 1/2 pound chicken breast (cut into bite-sized cubes); 1 large egg white; 1/2 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt (for the honey-mustard dip); 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (for the honey-mustard dip); 2 teaspoons honey (for the honey-mustard dip); pinch salt (for seasoning chicken and dip)

If you’re craving a snack that’s both satisfyingly crunchy and packed with flavor, these Almond-Crusted Chicken Bites with Honey-Mustard Dip are about to become your new favorite. Tender chicken cubes get a delightful nutty coating from roasted almonds, creating a texture that’s crispy on the outside while juicy and tender on the inside. Paired with a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet honey-mustard dip, this recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a party appetizer that everyone will love.

What’s truly wonderful about this recipe is how simple it is to make yet feels so gourmet. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, these bites deliver on both nutrition and taste. Plus, with wholesome ingredients like Greek yogurt and real almonds, you’re treating yourself to a snack that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes these Almond-Crusted Chicken Bites stand out is the use of roasted almonds as a crust instead of the usual breadcrumbs or flour. Almonds add a rich, nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch that elevates the dish beyond your typical chicken bites. Because the almonds are roasted and salted, they bring an extra depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the subtle sweetness of the honey in the dip.

Another unique element is the honey-mustard dip made with plain nonfat Greek yogurt. This swap keeps the dip creamy and tangy while adding a boost of protein and reducing unnecessary fats. The Dijon mustard adds a sharp kick that balances the sweetness of the honey perfectly, making every bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

This recipe is also incredibly adaptable, accommodating different dietary preferences and ingredient swaps without sacrificing taste. It’s a fantastic way to bring some excitement to your weeknight meals or impress guests with a finger food that feels indulgent but is actually quite wholesome.

Your Shopping Guide

Roasted and salted almonds (3/4 cup): Look for whole almonds to crush yourself for maximum texture and freshness. Avoid pre-chopped nuts to keep the coating chunky and satisfying.
Chicken breast (1/2 pound): Choose fresh, lean chicken breast cut into bite-sized cubes. If preferred, boneless and skinless thighs can work too.
Salt: A pinch for seasoning the chicken and dip.
Large egg white (1): This acts as a binder to help the almond crust stick perfectly to the chicken pieces.
Plain nonfat Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): Provides creaminess to the honey-mustard dip while keeping it light and protein-packed.
Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons): Adds a tangy zest to the dip.
Honey (2 teaspoons): Balances the sharpness of the mustard for a smooth, sweet finish.

Equipment Breakdown

Food processor or sturdy plastic bag and rolling pin: For crushing the almonds into coarse crumbs.
Mixing bowls: One for the egg white and seasoning, one for the crushed almonds, and another for the dip.
Baking sheet or air fryer basket: To cook the chicken bites to crispy perfection.
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
Whisk or fork: For mixing the honey-mustard dip ingredients smoothly.
Tongs or fork: To handle the chicken pieces without messing up the coating.

Directions: Almond-Crusted Chicken Bites with Honey-Mustard Dip

Step 1: Prep the Almond Crust

Place your roasted and salted almonds into a food processor and pulse until you get a coarse, crumbly texture—think chunky breadcrumbs, not a fine powder. If you don’t have a processor, place the almonds in a sturdy plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 2: Season and Bind the Chicken

In a medium-sized bowl, lightly season the cubed chicken breast with a pinch of salt. Add the egg white and mix well to ensure every piece is coated. This egg white layer will help the almond crumbs stick to the chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Transfer the crushed almonds into a shallow dish. Using your hands or tongs, dip each egg-white-coated chicken cube into the almonds, pressing gently to cover all sides evenly. Place the coated chicken bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the chicken bites for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. For extra crispiness, you can broil for an additional 1-2 minutes—just watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 5: Mix the Honey-Mustard Dip

While the chicken bakes, whisk together the plain nonfat Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the warm almond-crusted chicken bites alongside the honey-mustard dip. These bites are perfect on their own or paired with a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

Quick Replacement Ideas

Almonds: Swap with crushed pistachios or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
Chicken breast: Use turkey breast cubes or firm tofu for a plant-based twist.
Egg white: Use aquafaba (chickpea brine) as a vegan binder alternative.
Plain nonfat Greek yogurt: Substitute with coconut yogurt or cashew cream for a dairy-free dip.
Dijon mustard: Try spicy brown mustard or whole grain mustard for added texture.

Troubleshooting Tips

Almond crust not sticking: Make sure the chicken is well coated in egg white before dipping into the almonds. Also, press the almonds firmly onto the chicken pieces for better adhesion.
Chicken bites soggy: Bake on a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow air circulation, or use an air fryer for crispier results.
Dip too thick or thin: Adjust the thickness by adding a teaspoon of water or yogurt to thin it out, or a little more mustard or honey to thicken.
Chicken undercooked: Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Allow the chicken bites to cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The honey-mustard dip should be stored separately in a sealed jar or container for optimal freshness.

To reheat, place the chicken bites on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it may make the coating soggy. The dip can be served cold or at room temperature.

Handy Q&A

Can I make these chicken bites ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the chicken bites and even coat them a day ahead. Just keep them covered in the fridge and bake fresh when ready to serve. The dip can also be made in advance and stored separately.

Is it possible to air fry these chicken bites?

Yes! Air frying is a fantastic way to get an extra-crispy crust without using much oil. Cook at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

What can I serve these almond-crusted bites with?

They pair wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even some sweet potato fries. For a fun variation, try serving alongside Crispy Chicken Tenders With Honey Sauce or Baked Chicken With Parmesan Crust for a delicious chicken-themed meal.

Can I use raw almonds instead of roasted?

You can, but roasting the almonds beforehand enhances their nutty flavor and gives a better crunch. If using raw almonds, consider toasting them lightly in a dry pan or oven for a few minutes before crushing.

Healthy-ish Favorites

Crispy Chicken Tenders With Honey Sauce – Another crowd-pleaser with a sweet and savory twist.
Baked Chicken With Parmesan Crust – For a cheesy, crunchy chicken option.
Easy Vegan Buddha Bowl – A nutritious and colorful plant-based meal.
Healthy Sweet Potato Fries – Perfect for pairing with any chicken bites!

Before You Go

Don’t forget to have fun experimenting with this recipe! The beauty of almond-crusted chicken bites lies in their versatility—feel free to tweak the spices, nuts, or dip ingredients to match your taste buds. And if you love the idea of crispy, flavorful chicken, be sure to check out our other recipes like Crispy Chicken Tenders With Honey Sauce or Baked Chicken With Parmesan Crust for more inspiration.

These Almond-Crusted Chicken Bites with Honey-Mustard Dip are a wonderful way to add some crunch and sweetness to your meal rotation. Whether you’re serving them as a tasty snack or pairing them with your favorite sides, they’re sure to become a beloved recipe. So grab those almonds, preheat your oven, and get ready for a deliciously nutty twist on classic chicken bites that’s both wholesome and satisfying!