Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a dish that brings joy to the table, let me introduce you to my Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders. These delightful bites are coated in a flavorful mix of chili powder and sweet coconut flakes, making them irresistible for both kids and adults. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively family gathering, this recipe is sure to please everyone.

What makes these chicken tenders extra special? They are not only delicious but also quick to prepare! You can have a plateful of crispy goodness ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy days when you still want to serve something homemade and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that everyone will love.
• Family-Friendly: Kids adore these tenders! They’re perfect for picky eaters who enjoy finger foods.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish with your favorite sides.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the chicken tenders in advance and just bake or fry them when you’re ready.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of coconut and chili powder provides a unique twist that elevates the classic chicken tender.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together easily to create the most mouthwatering Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders. Each one is simple and wholesome, ensuring you know exactly what’s going into your meal!

• 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! Feel free to experiment with these ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Use boneless chicken thighs or even tofu strips for a plant-based option.
• Try different coatings: Experiment with crushed cornflakes or seasoned breadcrumbs instead of panko for added crunch.
• Add spices: Mix in some garlic powder or paprika into the flour for an extra layer of flavor.
• Serve with different dips: Instead of sweet chili sauce, try honey mustard or barbecue sauce for a new taste experience.

How to Make Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Breading Stations

First, get out four wide, shallow bowls. In the first bowl, whisk together the flour, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will add a delightful kick to your tenders. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water (or milk). This egg wash helps the coconut and breadcrumbs stick perfectly.

Step 2: Set Up Your Coating Assembly Line

Fill your third bowl with shredded coconut flakes and your fourth bowl with panko breadcrumbs. Having everything ready will make breading easier and faster. You will love how organized this makes your cooking process!

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Now it’s time to coat those chicken tenderloins! Toss each piece first in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg wash. Follow this with coating in coconut flakes and finish off with panko bread crumbs. Ensure every piece is well-covered; this is what gives them their delightful crunch!

Step 4: Frying Time

For frying—if you choose this method—fill a large skillet with about an inch of oil. Heat it over medium heat until hot. Carefully place your coated chicken tenders into the oil using tongs (make sure not to crowd them). Cooking them for about 2-3 minutes on one side before flipping ensures they stay juicy inside while getting golden brown outside.

Step 5: Cooling and Serving

Once cooked through and golden brown on both sides, transfer the chicken tenders onto a wire cooling rack lined with paper towels. This allows any excess oil to drain away—keeping them crispy! If you’d like, sprinkle some sea salt flakes on top before serving warm with sweet chili dipping sauce.

And there you have it! Delicious Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders that everyone will be raving about! Enjoy every savory bite!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Creating perfectly crispy coconut chicken tenders is easier than you might think! Here are some insider tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh chicken and quality coconut flakes make a world of difference in taste and texture, ensuring your tenders are juicy and flavorful.

• Don’t rush the frying process – Allowing the oil to reach the right temperature before adding the chicken ensures even cooking and prevents the tenders from becoming greasy. Use a thermometer if needed; it should be around 350°F (175°C).

• Ensure thorough coating – Make sure each tender is well-coated at every step. This not only adds flavor but also contributes to that delightful crunch we all crave!

• Fry in batches – Crowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy tenders. Fry in small batches for that perfect golden crispiness.

• Let them rest – After frying, resting your chicken tenders on a wire rack allows excess oil to drip off, keeping them crispy longer and preventing steam from making them soggy.

How to Serve Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Once you’ve made these delicious crispy coconut chicken tenders, it’s time to present them beautifully! Here are some fun ideas to make your meal even more appetizing.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley – A sprinkle of greenery adds color and a fresh flavor contrast to the sweetness of the coconut.

• Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime over the tenders brightens up the dish with zesty acidity that enhances the overall taste.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries – These naturally sweet fries provide a delightful contrast to the savory chicken tenders while being easy to prepare alongside them.

• Tropical Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of pineapple, mango, and kiwi complements the coconut flavor beautifully, adding a lightness that balances out the richness of the dish.

• Creamy Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw with a tangy dressing offers a fantastic texture contrast, making every bite exciting!

• Steamed Broccoli with Garlic – The vibrant green broccoli adds color to your plate and its subtle garlic flavor pairs wonderfully with coconut chicken tenders.

Enjoy your crispy coconut chicken tenders with these garnishes and sides for a complete meal that’s sure to impress family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or lunchboxes! You can easily store them or even freeze them for future use.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are separated by parchment paper if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the chicken tenders after they have cooled completely.
• Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen tenders to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, bake at the same temperature for about 20-25 minutes, checking that they are heated all the way through.
• For best results, avoid using the microwave as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders.

Can I bake Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders instead of frying?

Absolutely! To bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with cooking oil and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through.

How can I ensure my Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders stay crispy?

To maintain their crispiness, make sure not to overcrowd the pan while frying. Also, draining them on a wire rack rather than paper towels helps keep them crunchy. When storing leftovers, place parchment paper between layers in your container.

What dipping sauces pair well with Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders?

These tenders go wonderfully with sweet chili sauce, but you can also try honey mustard or a tangy barbecue sauce for a delightful twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders as much as I do! They bring together sweetness and spice in every bite and are sure to be a hit at your table. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or packing them for lunch, they’re bound to please everyone. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!