Almond-Crusted Chicken with Wild Rice and Brussels Sprouts: A Balanced Family Dinner Recipe

Looking for a balanced and flavorful family-friendly dinner that delivers on taste and nutrition? This almond-crusted chicken with wild rice and Brussels sprouts is the perfect solution. Packed with protein, fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, this dish brings together taste and health in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, this meal is sure to please—and it’s simple enough to prepare on a busy weeknight.

What Is Almond-Crusted Chicken with Wild Rice and Brussels Sprouts?

This hearty and wholesome dish features tender chicken breasts coated in ground almonds and spices, gently baked until golden and crispy. Paired with fluffy wild rice and roasted Brussels sprouts, it’s a complete meal in one. Almond crusting not only adds a crunchy texture but also boosts the nutritional value of the meal. The sides of wild rice and Brussels sprouts add earthy flavor and nutrient density, turning this into a balanced dinner plate that satisfies.

Health Benefits of This Recipe

Almonds are a strong source of healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, magnesium, and plant-based protein. They support heart health, promote brain function, and help maintain blood sugar levels. By replacing regular breadcrumbs with almonds, we make the chicken lower in refined carbs and higher in nutrition.

Chicken breast is a lean protein that offers essential amino acids for muscle development and repair. It’s also low in saturated fat, making it a good choice for heart-smart meals.

Wild rice is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and minerals like zinc and magnesium. It supports digestion, helps maintain energy levels, and keeps you feeling full longer.

Brussels sprouts are a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. They contain compounds that support detoxification and may help reduce inflammation in the body.

Precautions

While this recipe is highly nutritious, those with nut allergies should avoid this dish or substitute the almonds with a seed-based alternative like ground sunflower seeds. Also, ensure Brussels sprouts are properly cooked to avoid bitterness, and salted moderately to keep sodium levels in check.

Almond-Crusted Chicken with Wild Rice and Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Ingredients

For the Almond-Crusted Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup finely ground almonds (or almond meal)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing pan or drizzling)

For the Wild Rice:

• 1 cup uncooked wild rice
• 2 1/2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)

For the Brussels Sprouts:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Wild Rice

Rinse the wild rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 1/2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add the rice and optional salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until the grains are tender and slightly chewy. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the halved Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the edges are caramelized and crispy. For added flavor, drizzle with balsamic vinegar before serving.

Step 3: Prepare and Bake the Chicken

Lower oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. In a shallow bowl, mix ground almonds, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then press into the almond mixture, coating well on both sides. Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to encourage browning.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the almond-crusted chicken over a bed of wild rice with roasted Brussels sprouts on the side. For an extra touch, add a lemon wedge or a drizzle of creamy yogurt-based sauce or mustard vinaigrette. This meal pairs well with sparkling water or a light fruit-infused drink for a complete, refreshing dinner.

Final Thoughts

Almond-crusted chicken with wild rice and Brussels sprouts is more than a tasty dinner—it’s a nutrient-rich, well-balanced meal combining protein, fiber, essential vitamins, and healthy fats. It’s ideal for families looking to upgrade their weeknight meals with healthy options without sacrificing flavor. Try it once, and it might become your favorite go-to dinner idea!