Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are a delightful treat that combines the crunch of panko bread crumbs with the sweet flavor of coconut. These tenders are perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or even as a fun appetizer at parties. Their juicy interior and crispy exterior make them irresistibly delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Twist: The addition of chili powder and sweet coconut flakes gives a unique flavor that’s different from traditional chicken tenders.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair these tenders with sweet chili sauce, or serve them on a salad or in wraps for a complete meal.
• Kid-Friendly: Children and adults alike will love the crunchy texture and tasty flavor, making this dish a family favorite.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, these tenders are ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders, you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• large skillet
• four wide shallow bowls
• tongs
• wire cooling rack
• paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: A wide skillet allows for even cooking of multiple tenders at once while preventing overcrowding.
• Wide Shallow Bowls: These bowls make it easy to coat the chicken evenly in each ingredient without making a mess.
• Tongs: Using tongs helps you safely turn the chicken in hot oil without risking burns or splatters.

Ingredients

What’s not to love in a chicken tender that’s sprinkled in chili powder then covered in sweet coconut flakes and panko before being fried (or baked!)? So juicy, so tender, so mouthwateringly delicious!

For the Chicken Tenders

• 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)

How to Make Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare Your Bowls

First, get out four wide, shallow bowls. In the first bowl, whisk together the flour, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Wash

In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water (or milk).

Step 3: Set Up Coating Stations

Fill a third bowl with coconut flakes and a fourth bowl with panko bread crumbs.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Toss chicken tenders first in the flour mixture. Next, dip them into the egg wash. Follow with coating them in coconut flakes, and finish with panko bread crumbs. Make sure to coat each chicken tender thoroughly during each step.

Step 5: Heat Oil for Frying

For frying (see notes for baking method), fill a large skillet with 1 inch of oil. Bring to temperature over medium heat.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken Tenders

Use tongs to transfer chicken tenders into the hot oil without crowding the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on one side. Turn them over carefully and cook another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Repeat with remaining chicken tenders as necessary. Allow them to cool slightly on a wire cooling rack over paper towels.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with sea salt flakes if desired. Serve warm alongside sweet chili dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost!

How to Serve Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are not only delicious on their own but can be creatively paired with various sides and sauces. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce: The perfect blend of sweet and spicy complements the coconut flavor beautifully.
• Honey Mustard: This classic sauce provides a tangy contrast that enhances the overall taste.
• Ranch Dressing: A creamy option that adds richness and balances the crispy texture.

As a Salad Topper

• Mixed Greens: Slice the tenders and serve them over fresh greens for a crunchy salad.
• Tropical Fruit Salad: Pair with mango, pineapple, or kiwi for a refreshing twist.

In a Sandwich

• Coconut Chicken Sandwich: Layer the tenders in a bun with lettuce, tomato, and avocado for a satisfying meal.
• Wrap it Up: Use a tortilla to wrap the chicken tenders with veggies and your favorite sauce for an on-the-go option.

How to Perfect Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Making Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders is simple, but following these tips can ensure they come out perfectly every time.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh chicken tenderloins will result in juicier, more flavorful tenders.
• Proper Coating Technique: Ensure each chicken piece is well-coated in flour, egg wash, coconut flakes, and panko for maximum crunch.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at the right temperature (about 350°F) to avoid greasy tenders. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Frying in batches prevents steaming and helps achieve that coveted crispiness.
• Let Them Rest: Allow cooked tenders to rest briefly on paper towels to absorb excess oil before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy salad that adds freshness and contrasts the richness of the chicken.
2. French Fries: Classic fries or sweet potato fries make for a fun and hearty side dish.
3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice flavored with herbs complements the coconut flavor beautifully.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful crunch and sweetness alongside the chicken.
6. Potato Wedges: Seasoned wedges are easy to make and pair perfectly with dipping sauces.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Always season your flour with chili powder, salt, and pepper. This ensures that every layer of the chicken has flavor.
• Not coating evenly: Be sure to coat each chicken tender thoroughly in flour, egg, coconut flakes, and panko. An uneven coating can lead to inconsistent texture.
• Crowding the pan: Frying too many tenders at once can drop the oil temperature. This results in soggy tenders instead of crispy ones. Fry in batches for the best outcome.
• Using cold oil: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken tenders. If it’s too cold, your tenders will absorb oil and become greasy.
• Neglecting the resting time: Allow chicken tenders to cool slightly on a wire rack after frying. This helps maintain crispiness rather than trapping steam on a plate.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place tenders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. This method may not keep them crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Warm for about 5 minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders so special?

Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders combine sweet coconut flakes with crunchy panko bread crumbs, creating a unique flavor and texture that makes them irresistible.

Can I bake Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders instead of frying?

Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

What should I serve with Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders?

These tenders pair wonderfully with sweet chili sauce for dipping, along with fresh salads or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I customize my Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders?

Feel free to add spices like garlic powder or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or try using unsweetened coconut flakes for less sweetness.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also versatile enough to customize based on your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer or main dish, they are sure to impress family and friends. Give this recipe a try and explore different dipping sauces or sides!