Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders
If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to enjoy chicken, then these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are just the ticket! They’re not only easy to make, but they also pack a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness from the coconut. This recipe has become a favorite in my home—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family at gatherings. The best part? You can whip them up in just 30 minutes!
These tenders are juicy and tender, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, they’ll disappear in no time! Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll be coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from prep to plate, making it perfect for any night of the week.
- Family Favorite: With their crispy coating and sweet coconut flavor, even picky eaters will ask for seconds.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them with sweet chili sauce, or pair them with your favorite salads or sides.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the tenders ahead of time and fry or bake them just before serving for hassle-free entertaining.
- Healthy Twist: Using tenderloins means less fat while still delivering juicy flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders. You’ll love how easy it is to find everything you need!
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins (or chicken breasts, cut into strips)
- ½ cup flour
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons water (or milk)
- ⅔ cup shredded sweetened coconut flakes
- ⅔ cup panko bread crumbs
- oil for frying (see notes for alternate baking method)
- sea salt flakes (for garnish, optional)
- sweet chili sauce (for serving)
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to keep things exciting:
- Swap the protein: Use boneless chicken breasts or even turkey tenders for a different twist.
- Add spices: Experiment with different spices like garlic powder or paprika in the flour mixture for added flavor.
- Go gluten-free: Substitute regular flour and panko with gluten-free options to cater to dietary needs.
- Try baking: Instead of frying, bake these tenders on a lined sheet at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown for a healthier version.
How to Make Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Prepare Your Bowls
First things first! Get out four wide, shallow bowls. In the first bowl, whisk together the flour, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This will be your flavorful coating base that gives your tenders an extra kick!
Step 2: Create the Egg Wash
In your second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water (or milk). This egg wash will help everything stick nicely to your chicken. It’s like glue for all those delicious coatings!
Step 3: Set Up Your Coating Stations
Fill your third bowl with shredded coconut flakes and your fourth bowl with panko bread crumbs. Each ingredient plays its role—coconut adds sweetness while panko gives that beautiful crunch.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Now comes the fun part! Toss each chicken tender first in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg wash. Follow this by rolling it in coconut flakes and finally coating it in panko bread crumbs. Make sure each piece is well-coated; this is key to achieving that crispy texture!
Step 5: Frying Time!
For frying, fill a large skillet with about an inch of oil and bring it up to temperature over medium heat. Use tongs to gently place the chicken tenders into the hot oil—be careful not to crowd them! Fry for about 2-3 minutes on one side before flipping over for another 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Once done frying, let your crispy chicken tenders cool slightly on a wire rack placed over paper towels. This ensures they stay crispy! If desired, garnish with sea salt flakes before serving warm alongside sweet chili sauce for dipping.
Enjoy every crunchy bite of these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders—they’re bound to become a staple in your recipe collection!
Pro Tips for Making Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders
Making the perfect crispy coconut chicken tenders is all about technique and a few insider tips. Here are some helpful hints to elevate your dish!
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality coconut flakes will enhance the flavor and texture of your tenders, ensuring they taste deliciously homemade.
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Don’t skip the egg wash: The egg wash not only helps the coating stick but also adds richness to the final product. This layer of moisture creates a crispy exterior once cooked.
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Fry in small batches: Cooking too many tenders at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy tenders. Frying in smaller batches ensures that each tender gets perfectly crispy.
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Let them rest: After frying, allow your chicken tenders to cool slightly on a wire rack. This prevents steam from making them soggy while keeping them warm.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to add more flavor by including additional spices like garlic powder or paprika in your flour mixture. This personal touch can take your tenders to new heights!
How to Serve Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders
Presentation is key when serving these tasty tenders! They’re not just a meal; they’re an experience that can be enjoyed in various ways.
Garnishes
- Fresh herbs: Chopped cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top adds a vibrant pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before eating brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty twist.
- Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide an extra crunch and an appealing visual contrast against the coconut.
Side Dishes
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and slight crispiness complement the savory tenders beautifully, creating a delightful balance on your plate.
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Coleslaw: A refreshing side of coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess, enhancing the overall dining experience while providing a nice contrast to the fried chicken.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy option that contrasts well with the rich flavor of the chicken tenders. Plus, it adds a lovely splash of green!
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Rice or Quinoa Salad: A light rice or quinoa salad tossed with vegetables creates a wholesome side that pairs nicely with the coconut flavors, making your meal feel complete.
With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your deliciously crispy coconut chicken tenders! Enjoy every bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week, making it an ideal option for busy families or those who love to plan ahead.
Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They should be consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
- If you want to keep them crispy, try placing a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb excess moisture.
Freezing
- Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before freezing.
- Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
- Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
- Avoid microwaving as this can make the tenders soggy.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about making Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders!
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins for Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! If you prefer chicken breasts, simply slice them into strips. The cooking time may vary slightly based on thickness, so ensure they are fully cooked through.
What can I serve with Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders?
These tasty tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides like fresh salads, rice dishes, or even sweet potato fries. Don’t forget about that sweet chili sauce for dipping!
How do I make these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. There are plenty of options available that will give you that same great crunch!
Can I bake Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders instead of frying?
Yes! For a healthier option, bake them on a lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Be sure to spray lightly with oil for added crispiness!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to try these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders as I am to share them with you! They’re not just a meal; they’re an experience filled with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with family and friends, these tenders are sure to impress. Enjoy every crispy bite and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite dips. Happy cooking!
Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy mouthwatering Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders that are easy to make and delicious! Try this recipe today for a fun twist on classic chicken tenders.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins (or chicken breasts, cut into strips)
- ½ cup flour
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons water (or milk)
- ⅔ cup shredded sweetened coconut flakes
- ⅔ cup panko bread crumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare four shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with chili powder, salt, and pepper; one with whisked eggs and water; one with coconut flakes; and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each chicken strip first in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg wash, followed by rolling in the coconut flakes and panko.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the tenders for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving with sweet chili sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 4 tenders (150g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
