Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a delicious and fun dish to share with family or friends, these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are just the ticket! Imagine juicy chicken tenders coated in a delightful blend of chili powder and sweet coconut flakes, giving them an irresistible crunch. This recipe has quickly become a favorite at our house, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering. Trust me; once you try these tenders, they’ll be on your repeat menu!

These tenders bring together the best of both worlds — they’re easy to make and oh-so-satisfying. You can even whip them up in about 30 minutes! So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this mouthwatering adventure.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these tasty tenders ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love dipping these crispy delights in sweet chili sauce, making them perfect for any family meal.
• Versatile Cooking Options: Whether you prefer frying for that extra crunch or baking for a lighter option, this recipe works beautifully.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the chicken tenders ahead of time and pop them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of coconut and chili powder creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients that make these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders so special. You probably have most of these in your pantry already!

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

This recipe is super flexible! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey tenderloins or even tofu strips for a delicious vegetarian option.
• Change the coating: For added flavor, mix some grated parmesan cheese into the panko breadcrumbs.
• Experiment with spices: Add garlic powder or paprika to the flour mixture for an extra kick.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare Your Dredging Stations

First things first! Get out four wide, shallow bowls. In the first bowl, whisk together the flour, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This blend not only adds flavor but also helps create that crispy texture when fried or baked.

Step 2: Create Your Egg Wash

In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water (or milk). This egg wash acts as glue to help all those yummy coatings stick to our chicken.

Step 3: Set Up Your Coating Stations

Fill a third bowl with shredded coconut flakes and a fourth bowl with panko breadcrumbs. Having everything ready makes coating your chicken much easier and more fun!

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Now it’s time for some hands-on action! Toss each chicken tender first in the flour mixture to coat it evenly. Next, dip it into the egg wash before rolling it in coconut flakes and then panko breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is well-coated; this will give you that wonderful crunch.

Step 5: Heat Up the Oil

For frying (see notes for baking method), fill a large skillet with about an inch of oil. Bring it up to temperature over medium heat. Testing the oil with a small breadcrumb should make it sizzle when it’s hot enough!

Step 6: Fry the Chicken Tenders

Using tongs, carefully transfer chicken tenders into the hot oil but remember not to crowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary! Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side before flipping them over. Continue cooking until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through — around 3-4 more minutes.

Step 7: Cool Down Before Serving

Once cooked, use tongs to transfer them onto a wire cooling rack placed over paper towels. This allows excess oil to drain off while keeping them crispy.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Finally, sprinkle sea salt flakes on top if desired. Enjoy your Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders warm with sweet chili sauce for dipping!

And there you have it! A delightful recipe that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy every crispy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Creating the perfect Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your tenders turn out delightfully crispy and delicious every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and coconut will enhance the flavor of your tenders, making them even more enjoyable. Stale ingredients can dull the taste.

• Let the oil heat properly: Ensuring your oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F) before frying helps achieve that golden-brown crispiness. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy.

• Do not overcrowd the pan: Frying in small batches allows for even cooking and helps maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying, resulting in soggy tenders.

• Cool on a wire rack: After frying, place your chicken tenders on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents them from becoming soggy by allowing air circulation around the tenders.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the flour mixture or even the panko bread crumbs. A hint of garlic powder or paprika can bring extra flavor that complements the coconut beautifully!

How to Serve Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Serving Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders is just as important as making them! The presentation can elevate your dish and make it even more appealing. Here are some ideas to consider:

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro adds a pop of color and a fresh, zesty note that perfectly balances the sweetness of the coconut.
• Lime wedges: Offering lime wedges alongside adds a zesty zing when squeezed over the tenders, enhancing their flavor profile.
• Sliced green onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and crunchy texture that complements each bite beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with coconut milk offers a creamy base that pairs wonderfully with crispy chicken tenders, enhancing their tropical vibe.
• Mango Salsa: A refreshing blend of diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice creates a sweet and spicy contrast to the chicken.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: Brightly colored vegetables stir-fried with soy sauce or teriyaki provide a healthy crunch and balance out the richness of the tenders.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots can add crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of fried food.

With these serving suggestions, your Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders will be sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every crispy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week, making them a convenient and delicious option.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for about 3-4 days.
• To maintain their crispy texture, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked chicken tenders to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the frozen or refrigerated chicken tenders in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer for about 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders that you might find helpful.

Can I bake Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders instead of frying?

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

What dipping sauce goes well with Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders?

Sweet chili sauce is a fantastic pairing that complements the sweetness of the coconut. You could also try honey mustard or a spicy mayo for something different!

How do I make sure my Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are crunchy?

To achieve maximum crunchiness, ensure that each tender is well-coated with panko breadcrumbs. Frying them at the right temperature will also help; if the oil is too cool, they may absorb more oil instead of getting crispy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders as much as I do! They’re not just a meal; they’re a delightful experience that brings together sweet and savory flavors in every bite. Whether you’re preparing them for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead, they’re sure to become a favorite. Give them a try, and let me know how they turn out—I can’t wait to hear from you!