Surprise! You Can Have Keto Fried Chicken—Here’s How

A Clean, Crispy, and Guilt-Free Way to Enjoy the Taste of KFC on a Keto Diet—Without the Fryer or the Guilt

Who says crispy fried chicken is off the menu on keto? This healthier, low-carb version is everything you love about KFC—juicy, flavorful, crispy—without the carbs, processed coatings, or guilt.

This recipe skips pork rinds and uses whole-food, heart-friendly ingredients that support your keto goals while delivering that golden, crave-worthy crunch.

Why This Fried Chicken Is Different

What sets this recipe apart:

No pork rinds or processed fillers

High in omega-3s from golden flaxseed meal

Naturally gluten-free

Easy oven method

Perfect for family dinners, weekend treats, or impressing your non-keto friends.

Ingredients:

Marinade (Keto Buttermilk Substitute):

1 cup unsweetened almond milk or diluted heavy cream

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

Optional: 1 tsp hot sauce for added flavor

Soak chicken for 2–12 hours

Clean Crunch Coating:

3/4 cup blanched or all-purpose almond flour

1/4 cup golden flaxseed meal

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tbsp smoked paprika

1 tsp each: garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano

1/2 tsp sea salt and black pepper

Optional: 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper for heat

Egg Wash:

2 eggs, beaten with 2 tbsp water or cream

Chicken:

2 to 3 pounds chicken (bone-in or boneless thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)

How to Cook It

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Whisk almond milk and ACV to mimic buttermilk. Add hot sauce if using—Marinate chicken in the mixture for several hours (or overnight) for tenderness and flavor.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Preheat oven to 400°F or air fryer to 375°F.

Set up a breading station:

Egg wash

Coating mixture

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then press firmly into the coating mix.

Step 3: Bake 

Line a tray with parchment or a wire rack.

Lightly spray or brush chicken with avocado oil.

Bake 35–45 minutes, flipping halfway through

Chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the coating is golden brown.

What to Serve With

Crunchy keto coleslaw (made with avocado mayo and ACV)

A side salad of mixed greens with tomato

Cauliflower mash or roasted radishes

Dill pickles or a keto biscuit on the side

Health Bonus

This pork rind-free version delivers healthy fats, fiber, protein, and flavor, without sacrificing crunch. Flaxseed meal supports heart health and digestion, while almond flour and Parmesan add natural crispiness and flavor depth.

The next bonus is gravy made with full-fat coconut milk to enjoy with your KFC Style Keto Chicken below. 

Simple Coconut Milk Gravy (Keto & Dairy-Free)

Ingredients:

1 cup full-fat coconut milk

1/2 cup water or chicken broth (unsalted if store-bought)

1 garlic clove, minced (or 1/2 tsp garlic powder)

1/4 tsp sea salt (or to taste)

1/4 tsp black pepper

1–1.5 tsp arrowroot powder (mixed with 2 tsp cool water to make a slurry)

Instructions:

In a small saucepan, heat coconut milk and water/broth over medium heat.

Add garlic, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3–5 minutes.

Stir in arrowroot slurry while whisking gently.

Continue stirring until thickened (about 1–2 minutes).

Remove from heat. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Want More Surprises Like This?

Be sure to subscribe to Blissfully Keto for more real-food keto recipes that delight your taste buds and support your health. I keep it clean, comforting, economical, and keto-friendly, one bite at a time.