Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders – Step into the world of Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders. Get ready, for a delightful culinary adventure. This recipe brings together the delightful crunch of coconut with the tender excellence of chicken resulting in a savory dish that’s fast and straightforward to make. With 15 minutes of prep time and another 15 minutes to cook you’ll have a meal on your table in no time. So let’s plunge in and explore the compelling tastes of these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders!
I can still vividly recall the first time I whipped up a batch of these treats. The kitchen was filled with the scent of coconut mingling with the sound of frying chicken. The anticipation was palpable as my husband and child eagerly took their bites their eyes lighting up with delight. From that moment it became an instant family favorite and a regular star, at our dining table.
What makes this Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders truly special?
What truly sets these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders apart is their texture. The medley of shredded sweetened coconut flakes and panko bread crumbs creates a crispy layer that gives way to juicy tender chicken inside. If you’re craving some zing don’t forget to serve them with a side of sweet chili sauce. Each bite is bursting with flavor creating a taste experience.
What You Need To Make This Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Chicken Tenders or Chicken Breasts: Opt, for the best quality you can find. They’re the shining stars of your dish. Whether you choose tenderloins or slice breasts into strips make sure they take stage.
Chili Powder: This rebellious little ingredient adds a touch of heat to the blend. It’s like a spice that whispers secrets to the chicken creating a dance of flavors.
Salt & Pepper: The pair! Salt enhances the notes while pepper adds a kick. They work together as sidekicks to ensure your taste buds go on a rollercoaster ride.
Eggs & Water/Milk: Think of this as a bath for the chicken. The eggs and liquid create a coating ensuring that the coconut flakes and breadcrumbs stick like an embrace.
Shredded Sweetened Coconut Flakes: Ah, the symphony of coconut! These flakes bring a breeze to your dish adding hints of sweetness that transport every bite to paradise.
Panko Bread Crumbs: The secret behind our tender’s crispiness! Panko acts like a fairy godparent turning the chicken into a crunchy masterpiece.
Oil for Frying: It’s time, for sizzling action! Use your cooking oil. Turn your kitchen into an enchanting stage where tenders transform into golden perfection.
Sea Salt Flakes (Optional): You can add a sprinkle of sea salt flakes as a touch to enhance the flavor and presentation. If you’re, in the mood, for something try adding a dash of sea salt flakes.
Sweet Chili Sauce: Additionally, serve your tenders with chili sauce to give them a sweet and spicy twist that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Steps To Make Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders:
Step 1: Get ready to assemble a flavor burst! Gather four bowls, for this endeavor. In the bowl combine flour, powder, salt and pepper. This is where the magic starts, arranging the stage for awesome flavors.
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Step 2: In the next bowl whisk the eggs until they become a masterpiece. You can choose to add water or milk to create a bath for your chicken strips as they get ready for their crispy transformation.
Step 3: Bowl number three is about vibes. Load it with shredded sweetened coconut flakes. Imagine your tender chicken strips taking a dip in this paradise getting dressed up for their journey ahead.
Step 4: Now it’s time for bowl number four to join the party. Breadcrumbs! Panko breadcrumbs are, like the life of the celebration ensuring that every inch of your chicken gets that crunchy coating.
Step 5: Let’s have some fun now! Take each chicken strip on a flavor adventure. Coat them in flour mixture dip them in egg wash followed by rolling them in coconut flakes and finally coating them with panko breadcrumbs. It’s like your tenders are getting ready in their party outfits before hitting the dance floor of your skillet!
Step 6: Heat up a skillet with your cooking oil until it sizzles. Fry each coated chicken strip until they turn golden and crispy. Just picture it; the satisfaction, as the chicken tenders make contact with the hot pan transforming into a golden brown. It’s like they’re basking in a paradise of flavors. Give them a flip and let them dance a little longer until they reach that perfection.
Step 7: Now envision this; your tenders, glistening from their journey resting on a wire rack. They seem to be catching their breath ready to steal the show when they finally make it onto your plate.
Step 8: For a touch of elegance, you could sprinkle some sea salt flakes on top. It’s like adding a pinch of stardust that makes your tenders shine brighter.
Step 9: Now, for the finale! Picture your tender delights elegantly presented on your plate alongside a side of sweet chili sauce. It’s the medley of sweetness and spiciness that will vamoose your taste buds elating for more.
Tip:
Elevate your Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders game by giving them a tropical twist! Before you start the coating frenzy, soak the chicken strips in coconut milk for 30 minutes. This not only infuses an extra layer of coconut goodness but also ensures an even juicier and tender bite. It’s like marinating your tenders in a flavor vacation. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this extra touch of paradise!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Of course! You can definitely bake them instead of frying. Just preheat your oven to 400°F and bake them for around 15 to 20 minutes flipping them once so they become crispy all over.
Can I use unsweetened coconut flakes?
If you prefer a taste you can use unsweetened coconut flakes instead of the sweetened ones. Just make sure to adjust the amount of sugar, in the chili sauce according to your preference.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make these ahead of time. Simply coat the tenders then refrigerate them. When you’re ready to serve you can bake them for a fresh and crispy experience.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins - or chicken breasts cut into strips
- ½ c flour
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp water - or milk
- ⅔ c shredded sweetened coconut flakes
- ⅔ c panko bread crumbs
- Oil for frying
- Sea salt flakes - for garnish optional
- Sweet chili sauce - for serving
Instructions
- Let's start by mixing the ingredients. Grab a bowl. Combine ½ cup of flour, ½ teaspoon of powder, ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper.
- Next, we'll prepare the egg wash. In another bowl whisk together 2 eggs and 2 tablespoons of water (or milk).
- Now it's time to coat the chicken strips. Take each chicken strip. Dip it, in the flour mixture first, then in the egg wash. After that roll them in shredded coconut flakes and panko breadcrumbs.
- To achieve perfection when frying heat some oil in a skillet. Fry the coated chicken strips until they turn a brown color. This should take around 2 to 3 minutes on each side.
- For a touch feel free to sprinkle some sea salt flakes as a garnish.
- Once your golden tenders are ready plate them up and serve them warm, with a side of sweet chili sauce.
- Now you can indulge in the crispy and flavorful goodness of your homemade Coconut Chicken Tenders! Enjoy!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
