These Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are a tropical twist on classic chicken tenders, coated with crunchy panko, shredded coconut, and sesame seeds, then baked until golden brown. These tenders are deliciously crispy and healthier than frying, as they’re baked on a wire rack to maximize crispiness. Paired with a creamy, sweet, and spicy dipping sauce, these coconut chicken tenders are perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a party appetizer. Let’s get started with this easy, flavor-packed recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Coconut Chicken Tenders Recipe
This baked coconut chicken recipe delivers big on flavor and crunch. Baking the tenders on a wire rack keeps them crisp without excess oil, making them a lighter alternative to fried chicken. The coconut adds a hint of sweetness, while the Sriracha adds just the right amount of heat. The dipping sauce combines sweet chili and Sriracha for a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy.
Key Ingredients for Coconut Chicken Tenders
This recipe calls for simple pantry ingredients and a few flavorful add-ins to make irresistibly crispy coconut chicken tenders:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast tenderloins or skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into strips: The base of the recipe, providing lean protein.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided: Enhances the flavor of the tenders.
- 3 tablespoons flour: Helps the coating stick to the chicken.
- 1 large egg: Binds the coating to the chicken.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Sriracha: Adds a hint of spice to the tenders and dipping sauce.
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs: Creates a crispy, light crust.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut: Adds sweetness and texture.
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds: Adds flavor and crunch.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds color and a smoky flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth to the coating.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps create a golden, crispy crust when baked.
Dipping Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the dipping sauce.
- 1/4 cup Asian sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and a bit of heat.
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha: Gives a spicy kick to the sauce.
Step-by-Step Directions for Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders
Follow these simple steps to make coconut chicken tenders in the oven that are crispy, flavorful, and fun to eat.
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients and Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Set a wire rack inside a 18×13-inch rimmed baking sheet and coat it with non-stick spray. This setup helps keep the chicken tenders crispy while baking. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon salt over the chicken strips and set them aside.
Step 2: Set Up Coating Station
In a shallow bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, whisk the egg with 1 1/2 teaspoons Sriracha until combined. In a third shallow dish, mix panko, shredded coconut, sesame seeds, paprika, garlic powder, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Drizzle the olive oil over the panko mixture and stir until evenly coated.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
One at a time, dip each chicken tender into the flour, tapping off the excess. Then dip into the egg mixture, ensuring each tender is fully coated. Finally, dredge each tender in the panko and coconut mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating stick. Place each coated tender on the prepared rack, leaving space between each piece.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
Bake the tenders in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce
While the chicken is baking, prepare the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. Stir until smooth and set aside for serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the crispy coconut chicken tenders hot, with the sweet and spicy dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy this tasty, healthier take on chicken tenders!
Tips for the Best Coconut Chicken Tenders
- Use a wire rack: This allows air to circulate around the chicken, making it crispier without the need for frying.
- Adjust spice level: Add more or less Sriracha depending on your heat preference.
- Don’t skip the olive oil in the coating: It helps the panko and coconut crisp up nicely in the oven.
Storing and Reheating Coconut Chicken Tenders
- Storing: Place leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to keep them crispy.
Why You’ll Love These Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders
These Coconut Chicken Tenders are crispy, full of flavor, and perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or snack. The coconut adds a sweet contrast to the savory spices, and the panko gives them an addictive crunch. Pair them with the creamy, sweet, and spicy dipping sauce for a balanced and delicious meal.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?
Yes, but sweetened coconut may make the tenders slightly sweeter. Unsweetened coconut provides a subtle flavor that balances with the spices.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in your air fryer basket, cooking at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
What can I serve with coconut chicken tenders?
Serve with a side salad, rice, or roasted vegetables. They’re also great as part of a larger appetizer spread!
Can I use other types of dipping sauce?
Yes, these tenders pair well with honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or a simple Sriracha-mayo blend.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free panko and substitute the flour with a gluten-free option to make this recipe gluten-free.
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe: 4
Calories: 623
- Total Fat: 33g (42% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 11g (54% DV)
- Cholesterol: 151mg (50% DV)
- Sodium: 975mg (42% DV)
- Total Carbohydrate: 38g (14% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 4g (14% DV)
- Total Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 43g (86% DV)
- Vitamin C: 3mg (3% DV)
- Calcium: 121mg (9% DV)
- Iron: 4mg (23% DV)
- Potassium: 486mg (10% DV)
Conclusion
These Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are a tasty twist on classic chicken tenders, delivering a tropical, sweet, and spicy flavor that’s perfect for any meal. Easy to make in the oven, they’re a healthier option with all the crunch and flavor you crave. Serve them with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce, and enjoy this delicious dish for lunch, dinner, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer!