Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on traditional chicken tenders. Coated in a mix of chili powder, sweet coconut flakes, and crispy panko, these tenders are perfect for any occasion—be it a family dinner, a game day snack, or a casual gathering with friends. Their juicy interior combined with a crunchy exterior makes them an irresistible choice that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of chili powder and sweet coconut brings a unique flavor profile that will excite your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, main course, or even in wraps for lunch.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love the crunch and sweetness—making these tenders a great way to introduce new flavors.
• Baking Option Available: If you prefer a healthier option, you can easily bake these tenders instead of frying.

Tools and Preparation

To make Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders, having the right tools on hand is essential. This ensures efficiency and ease while cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Four shallow bowls
• Tongs
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for frying the chicken tenders evenly and achieving that perfect golden brown color.
• Four shallow bowls: These allow for easy coating of each tender in flour, egg wash, coconut flakes, and panko without mess.
• Tongs: Essential for safely flipping the chicken in hot oil without burning yourself.
• Wire cooling rack: Helps keep the tenders crispy by allowing excess oil to drain away.

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 Coatings

Gather four wide, shallow bowls. In the first bowl, whisk together the flour, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Beat the Eggs

In your second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water (or milk). This will be your egg wash which helps adhere the coatings to your chicken.

Step 3: Set Up Coconut and Panko Bowls

Fill your third bowl with shredded coconut flakes. In the fourth bowl, place panko bread crumbs. These will give your chicken its crispy texture.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Take each chicken tender and toss it first in the flour mixture. Next, dip it into the egg wash ensuring it’s fully coated. Follow this by rolling it in coconut flakes and finally coating it with panko bread crumbs. Make sure each piece is well-coated at every step.

Step 5: Heat Oil for Frying

In a large skillet, pour enough oil to fill about one inch deep. Heat over medium heat until hot.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken Tenders

Using tongs, carefully transfer chicken tenders into the hot oil. Avoid crowding the pan; fry in batches if necessary. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip them over and cook another 3-4 minutes until cooked through.

Step 7: Drain Excess Oil

Once cooked, remove tenders from oil and place them on a wire cooling rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Garnish with sea salt flakes if desired and serve warm with sweet chili dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders!

How to Serve Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be served in various ways to please your taste buds. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a game day snack, these tenders can elevate any meal.

With Sweet Chili Sauce

• This classic dipping sauce complements the sweetness of the coconut and adds a bit of heat for an exciting flavor twist.

On a Salad

• Slice the tenders and add them to a fresh garden salad. The crunchiness pairs well with crisp greens and tangy dressings.

In a Wrap

• Place the chicken tenders in a tortilla with some lettuce, tomato, and avocado for a quick and delicious wrap.

As Part of a Platter

• Serve the tenders alongside other appetizers like veggies, hummus, or guacamole for an inviting snack platter perfect for gatherings.

How to Perfect Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Achieving the ideal crispy texture for your chicken tenders is simple with these helpful tips.

• Dry Chicken Thoroughly: Before breading, pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh coconut flakes and panko breadcrumbs create a better texture and flavor compared to stale alternatives.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the frying oil at 350°F (175°C) for optimal crispiness. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb oil and become greasy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to avoid steaming, which can prevent crispiness.
• Cool on a Rack: Allow fried tenders to cool on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents them from becoming soggy as they cool down.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

Pairing side dishes with your Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders enhances meal enjoyment. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the chicken tenders.
2. Sweet Potato Fries
   These sweet, crispy fries complement the coconut flavors while adding a satisfying crunch.
3. Vegetable Stir-Fry
   A quick stir-fry of seasonal vegetables provides color and nutrition while being light yet filling.
4. Coconut Rice
   Fluffy coconut rice mirrors the flavors of your chicken tenders, making it a perfect pairing.
5. Quinoa Salad
   This protein-packed salad with fresh herbs offers a healthy contrast to the crispy tenders.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brushed with lime butter provides a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with chicken.
7. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic give comfort while complementing the dish’s crispiness.
8. Fruit Salsa
   A refreshing fruit salsa made with mango or pineapple adds brightness and sweetness that lifts the whole meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders even more delicious. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the coating steps: Ensure each chicken tender is thoroughly coated in flour, egg wash, coconut flakes, and panko. This layering creates that perfect crispy texture.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many tenders at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches for a crispy result.
• Not heating the oil properly: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the tenders will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer or test with a small piece of chicken before frying.
• Using stale coconut flakes: Fresh, sweetened coconut flakes enhance flavor and texture. Always check for freshness before using.
• Ignoring resting time: Allowing fried tenders to rest on a wire rack helps maintain their crispiness. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

• Place cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place tenders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes but note they may lose some crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil and cook for 3-5 minutes per side until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders.

Can I bake Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders instead of frying?

Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated tenders on a greased baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What can I serve with Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders?

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

How do I make these tenders spicier?

Add more chili powder to the flour mix or incorporate red pepper flakes into the coconut coating for an extra kick.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! Just cut chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenderloins for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are not only mouthwatering but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them by adjusting spices or trying different dipping sauces. Give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!