Name: Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken tenderloins; ½ cup flour; ½ teaspoon chili powder; 2 eggs; ⅔ cup shredded sweetened coconut flakes; ⅔ cup panko bread crumbs; Oil for frying

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If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic favorite, these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are the answer! Imagine juicy chicken tenders, perfectly seasoned with chili powder and rolled in sweet coconut flakes. They’re not just delicious; they bring that tropical flair right to your kitchen. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to impress.

I love how easy these tenders are to make. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that’s not only tasty but also fun to eat. Plus, who can resist that satisfying crunch? Let’s dive into why you’ll adore this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Whip these up in just 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights!
Family-Friendly: Kids adore them! These tenders are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Customizable: Feel free to switch up the seasonings or serve with different dipping sauces.
Make Ahead: Prepare them in advance and bake or fry when you’re ready to serve.
Mouthwatering Flavor: The combination of coconut and chili powder creates an irresistible taste sensation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need any fancy ingredients for these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders—just some wholesome staples you probably already have at home! Here’s what you’ll 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

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to try:

Swap the protein: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
Change the flavor: Experiment with different spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika for added depth.
Bake instead of fry: If you’re looking for a healthier option, bake them instead! Just coat and arrange on a baking sheet before popping them in the oven.
Add some crunch: Mix in crushed nuts with the panko for an extra layer of texture.

How to Make Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare Your Dredging Stations

First things first! Set up four wide, shallow bowls. In one bowl, whisk together the flour, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This seasoning mix brings out wonderful flavors in each crispy bite.

Step 2: Mix the Egg Wash

In your second bowl, beat together the eggs and water (or milk). The egg wash helps everything stick together beautifully as we move along.

Step 3: Set Up Coating Bowls

Next, fill your third bowl with coconut flakes and your fourth bowl with panko bread crumbs. These will give our tenders that lovely crunch and sweetness we’re after!

Step 4: Coat Your Chicken Tenders

Now comes the fun part! Toss each chicken tender first in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg wash, followed by coating it in coconut flakes, and lastly rolling it in panko bread crumbs. Make sure each tender is generously coated at every step—it’s key to getting that perfect crispy exterior.

Step 5: Frying Time!

For frying (or baking if you prefer), fill a large skillet with about an inch of oil and heat it over medium heat until hot. Carefully use tongs to transfer chicken tenders into the oil one at a time. Avoid crowding the pan; it’s better to fry in batches if necessary. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side before flipping them over to cook another 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown.

Step 6: Cool & Garnish

Once cooked through, let your crispy treasures cool slightly on a wire rack placed over paper towels. This helps keep them crisp while absorbing any excess oil. If you’d like, sprinkle with sea salt flakes for an added touch before serving warm alongside sweet chili sauce for dipping.

Enjoy these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders—they’re sure to become a quick favorite in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Making crispy coconut chicken tenders at home can be a delightful experience! Here are some pro tips to ensure your tenders turn out perfectly every time.

Use fresh chicken: Fresh chicken tenderloins will provide the best flavor and texture, ensuring that your tenders are juicy and tender when cooked.
Don’t skip the chilling step: After coating your chicken tenders, let them sit in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better during cooking, resulting in a crispier final product.
Maintain oil temperature: When frying, it’s crucial to keep your oil at the right temperature (around 350°F). Too hot, and the outside will burn; too cool, and the coating will absorb excess oil and become soggy.
Double dip for extra crunch: For an even crunchier texture, consider double coating your chicken. After the first round of panko bread crumbs, dip them back into the egg wash and then coat again with panko!
Experiment with spices: Feel free to get creative by adding other spices to your flour mixture, such as garlic powder or paprika. This adds an extra layer of flavor to your chicken tenders.

How to Serve Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Crispy coconut chicken tenders aren’t just delicious—they’re also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving! Here are some ideas on how to present this scrumptious dish.

Garnishes

Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley can add a burst of color and freshness that complements the sweetness of the coconut.
Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the tenders brightens up their flavor profile, adding a tangy twist.

Side Dishes

Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with coconut milk adds a creamy touch that pairs beautifully with the tenders’ crunch.
Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa made with diced mangoes, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice brings a sweet-spicy contrast that elevates each bite.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add another layer of sweetness while also being a nutritious option. Their vibrant color makes for a beautiful plate!
Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a citrus vinaigrette balances out the richness of the fried chicken tenders while adding freshness to your meal.

Now that you have these tips and serving suggestions at your fingertips, get ready to enjoy some truly mouthwatering crispy coconut chicken tenders!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily prepare them in advance, making them a perfect choice for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing.
Place them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Place cooked chicken tenders on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid.
Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Alternatively, you can use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these lovely chicken tenders!

Can I bake Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders instead of frying?

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

What dipping sauces pair well with Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders?

Sweet chili sauce is a classic pairing, but you could also serve these tenders with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a tangy mango salsa for an extra burst of flavor.

How do I keep my Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders crunchy?

To maintain their crunchiness after cooking, avoid stacking them on top of each other when cooling. Store them loosely in a single layer to prevent steam from making them soggy.

Can I use unsweetened coconut flakes?

While sweetened coconut flakes give a delightful contrast to the savory chicken, you can certainly use unsweetened coconut if you prefer. Just consider adding a touch of sugar to balance the flavors.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you love making these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders as much as I do! They’re not just a treat; they’re perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering. Enjoy every bite of these juicy, flavorful tenders, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your dipping sauces. Happy cooking!