Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a tasty dish that everyone in the family will love, look no further than these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders! They’re not just chicken tenders; they are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. I love making these for busy weeknights or even when I have friends over for a casual gathering. The crispy coconut coating adds a fun twist to a classic favorite, making them irresistible!

These chicken tenders are juicy, tender, and so easy to prepare. You can serve them with a sweet chili dipping sauce that perfectly complements the coconut flavor. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up these tenders in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the crispy coating and juicy chicken.
• Make Ahead: Prep the tenders earlier in the day and fry them fresh when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main course paired with your favorite sides.
• Flavorful Twist: The combination of coconut and chili powder delivers a unique taste that stands out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully! Gather these items before you start cooking:

• 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 quite flexible! Here are some fun variations to keep things exciting:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken thighs or even shrimp for a different flavor profile.
• Add some spice: Incorporate some cayenne pepper into the flour mixture for an extra kick!
• Go gluten-free: Use almond flour instead of regular flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
• Bake them instead: If you prefer baking over frying, simply coat the tenders as directed and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes until golden brown.

How to Make Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare Your Breading Station

Start by getting four wide, shallow bowls ready. In the first bowl, whisk together flour, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give your chicken its first layer of flavor. In the second bowl, beat together your eggs and water (or milk). This egg wash helps the coconut flakes stick to the chicken. Fill the third bowl with coconut flakes, and the fourth with panko bread crumbs. Having everything organized makes the process smoother!

Step 2: Coat Your Chicken

Now it’s time to coat those chicken tenders! Take each piece of chicken and toss it first in the flour mixture. Make sure it’s covered completely. Next, dip it into the egg wash—this step is crucial for that delicious coconut layer to stick. Finally, roll it in the shredded coconut followed by panko breadcrumbs. Ensure each tender is thoroughly coated; this is what gives them their signature crunch!

Step 3: Frying Time!

For frying (or refer to notes if you prefer baking), heat up about one inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot enough, carefully place your coated chicken tenders into the oil using tongs. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook them in batches if needed! Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Drain and Serve

Once cooked through, transfer your crispy coconut chicken tenders onto a wire cooling rack set over paper towels. This allows excess oil to drain off while keeping them crispy! If you like, sprinkle some sea salt flakes on top before serving warm with sweet chili sauce on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders—they’re sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Making the perfect Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders is all about the details, so here are some tips to ensure your tenders come out beautifully crispy and flavorful!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh chicken and fresh coconut flakes will enhance the overall flavor. Old ingredients can lead to a bland taste and affect the tenderness of your chicken.

• Double-dip for extra crunch – For an even crispier coating, after the first dip in coconut and panko, you can dip the tenders back into the egg wash and then into the crumbs again. This creates a thick barrier that’s super crunchy when fried!

• Temperature check – Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. If it’s too cool, your tenders will absorb more oil and become greasy instead of crispy. A good test is to drop a small piece of panko into the oil; if it bubbles right away, you’re ready to fry.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Frying in batches helps maintain the oil temperature. When you add too many tenders at once, it reduces the heat, resulting in soggy chicken instead of that delightful crispiness.

• Let them rest – After frying, allow your chicken tenders to rest on a wire rack rather than paper towels. This prevents steam from building up underneath, keeping them crispy longer.

How to Serve Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Serving Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders can be as fun as making them! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a delightful presentation that elevates your meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley – A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and a burst of freshness that complements the sweetness of coconut.

• Lime wedges – Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their tenders for an extra zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Coconut Rice – This subtly sweet rice dish pairs perfectly with the chicken’s flavors and adds an extra element of tropical delight.

• Mango Salsa – A refreshing mango salsa made with diced mangoes, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice provides a bright contrast to the crispy chicken.

• Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries offer a deliciously sweet side that complements the savory chicken while adding a pop of color to your plate.

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette balances out the richness of the chicken tenders and brings freshness to your meal.

With these serving ideas in mind, you’re all set to enjoy your Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders in style!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, ensuring that you have delicious, homemade tenders ready for busy weeknights or quick snacks.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• After cooking, let the chicken tenders cool completely.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
• Transfer the frozen tenders to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 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 in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Avoid using a microwave if you want to retain that delightful crispiness!

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 parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking oil and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway.

How do I make sure my Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders stay crispy?

To ensure your chicken tenders remain crispy after cooking, store them on a wire rack over paper towels rather than sealing them in a container immediately. This prevents steam from making them soggy!

Can I use other types of chicken besides tenderloins?

Yes! You can use chicken breasts cut into strips or even chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness of the pieces.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders as much as I do! They’re not just delicious; they also bring a touch of tropical flavor into your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them up for family dinner or enjoying them as a snack while watching your favorite show, they’re sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!