The invention is a process for the preparation of coated nitride powder, comprising contacting one or more metal complex(es), organo-aluminum material, optionally one or more silicon compounds or mixtures thereof, with nitride powder under conditions such that coated nitride powder is formed. A metal complex is a metal-containing system which is soluble in a host liquid. The process of the invention is a process for making coated nitride powder and obtaining the desirable properties of coated nitride powder, while maintaining the desirable properties of the uncoated powder, such as good thermal conductivity, for use in electronic applications. In another aspect, the invention is a coated nitride powder which has the advantageous properties of the uncoated powder and is a desirable alternative to current nitride coatings.