Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious meal that will make everyone around your dinner table smile, you’ve come to the right place! My Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are an absolute favorite in my home. These little bites of joy are not only packed with flavor, but they also bring a lovely crunch that makes them irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe fits every occasion perfectly.

What I love most about these tenders is how easy they are to whip up. Plus, they’re a hit with both kids and adults alike! Serve them with sweet chili sauce for dipping, and you’ll have a dish that disappears faster than you can say “chicken tenders.”

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: The crispy texture and sweet coconut flavor are sure to please picky eaters!
• Customizable: Feel free to play around with spices and dips to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or snacks, these tenders fit the bill.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and bake or fry when you’re ready!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that make these tenders so special. You probably already have most of these in your pantry!

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)

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or fish fillets instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add spices: Experiment with different spices like garlic powder or paprika for an extra kick!
• Go baked: If you prefer baking over frying, toss the coated tenders in the oven at 400°F until golden brown.
• Try different coatings: Use crushed cornflakes or regular breadcrumbs instead of panko if that’s what you have on hand.

How to Make Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare Your Bowls

First things first—let’s set ourselves up for success by preparing four wide shallow bowls. In the first bowl, whisk together the flour, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This flavorful mixture is key to giving those chicken tenders their initial layer of flavor.

Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In your second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water (or milk). This egg wash will help everything stick together beautifully. It’s important because it ensures that each tender gets that delicious coconut coating!

Step 3: Arrange the Coatings

Now fill your third bowl with coconut flakes and your fourth bowl with panko bread crumbs. Having everything organized makes the coating process a breeze. Plus, just look at those gorgeous textures coming together!

Step 4: Coat Those Tenders

Here comes the fun part! Toss each chicken tender first in the flour mixture to coat evenly. Next dip it into the egg wash—make sure it’s fully covered—and follow it up by pressing it into the coconut flakes and finally into the panko bread crumbs. This multi-step process creates that perfect crispy layer we all adore.

Step 5: Frying Time!

For frying (if you’re opting for baking instead, check out my notes), fill a large skillet with about an inch of oil. Bring it to temperature over medium heat. Carefully use tongs to transfer the chicken tenders into the hot oil without crowding them—this helps them fry evenly.

Step 6: Cook Until Golden Brown

Cook each side of the chicken tenders for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Keep an eye on them; you’ll want that beautiful color before removing them from the oil.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once cooked, let them cool slightly on a wire rack over paper towels. This allows excess oil to drip off while keeping them nice and crispy! Garnish with sea salt flakes if desired and serve warm with sweet chili sauce for dipping.

Enjoy every bite of your Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders! They’re perfect for sharing—or not!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

To ensure your chicken tenders are perfectly crispy and packed with flavor, keep these handy tips in mind!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality coconut flakes make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture. Opting for fresh ensures a juicier, more tender result.

• Control the oil temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If it’s not hot, the tenders will absorb too much oil and become greasy instead of crispy.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying in small batches allows for even cooking and prevents the temperature of the oil from dropping too much, which can lead to soggy tenders.

• Let them rest: After frying, place your chicken tenders on a wire rack to cool slightly. This helps maintain their crispiness by allowing air to circulate around them.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to tweak the chili powder or add other spices like garlic powder or paprika to the flour mixture for an extra kick of flavor!

How to Serve Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Presentation can elevate your dish from good to spectacular! Here are some delightful ways to serve your Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that pairs beautifully with the coconut flavor.
• Lime wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over the tenders right before serving brightens up the dish and enhances all those lovely flavors.

Side Dishes

• Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet rice dish complements the coconut notes in your chicken tenders, making each bite harmonious.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw drizzled with a tangy dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the crispy tenders.
• Sweet Potato Fries: These naturally sweet fries provide a delicious balance to the savory chicken, plus they’re fun to dip!
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn tossed on the grill add color and smokiness that rounds out this meal perfectly.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are sure to impress at any gathering or family dinner! Enjoy every crispy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders is fantastic for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and have delicious tenders ready to go for busy weeknights or lunchboxes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• After cooking, let the chicken tenders cool thoroughly.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen tenders to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. If you prefer, you can reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I bake Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders instead of frying?

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

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

To keep your tenders crispy, avoid overcrowding the pan if frying. If baking, make sure they’re not touching on the sheet. Also, letting them cool on a wire rack prevents steam from making them soggy.

What can I serve with Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders?

These tasty tenders pair wonderfully with sweet chili sauce, fresh salads, or even coconut rice. For added flavor, consider serving with a side of coleslaw or steamed vegetables!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders as much as I do! They are not only incredibly satisfying but also versatile enough to suit various occasions—from casual dinners to special gatherings. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!

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