Coconut Chicken Tenders are a delightful and creative spin on the traditional chicken tender, combining the sweet, nutty flavor of coconut with juicy, tender chicken.
This dish is a perfect example of how a simple twist can transform a classic favorite into something new and exciting.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering, Coconut Chicken Tenders are sure to satisfy.
The combination of crispy, golden-brown breading and succulent chicken is hard to resist, but the addition of shredded coconut takes this dish to a whole new level.
The coconut adds a subtle sweetness and a unique texture that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the chicken and breadcrumbs. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!
Coconut Chicken Tenders Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow dish, mix the flour, salt, and black pepper. Beat the eggs in another dish. Combine the shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs in a third dish.
- Dip each chicken tenderloin into the flour mixture, then the beaten eggs, and finally the coconut-panko mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
- Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Spray them lightly with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like sweet chili sauce or honey mustard.
Tips & Tricks
- Use unsweetened shredded coconut to avoid an overly sweet flavor.
- For extra crispy tenders, pan-fry them in a skillet with a little oil instead of baking.
- Make it gluten-free by using coconut flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Marinate the chicken in coconut milk beforehand for even more coconut flavor and moisture.
Coconut Chicken Tenders are a fantastic way to shake up your usual chicken routine. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a meal that’s sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, get breading, and enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this delightful dish!
Serving Suggestions
These crispy coconut tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving them with:
- Coconut jasmine rice for a double dose of coconut goodness
- A refreshing Asian slaw with a light vinaigrette
- Grilled pineapple for a sweet and tangy contrast
- Roasted asparagus and brussels sprouts for a healthy veggie option
Don’t forget the dipping sauce! While sweet chili sauce is a classic choice, you can also experiment with other flavors like:
- Spicy grapefruit marmalade for a unique sweet-heat combo
- Homemade honey mustard for a tangy twist
- Cilantro jalapeño ranch for a zesty kick
Fun Facts & History
The exact origin of chicken tenders is somewhat disputed, but one popular story suggests they were invented by accident in 1974 at a restaurant in Manchester, New Hampshire called the Puritan Backroom.
According to this tale, the restaurant had leftover chicken breast strips after trimming down whole breasts for their chicken sandwiches.
Rather than discarding these strips, they decided to marinate and fry them, thus creating the first chicken tenders.
However, it’s important to note that this story is more of a local legend and has not been definitively proven. Regardless of their exact origin, there’s no denying that chicken tenders have become a beloved staple on menus across the country, enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
Final Verdict:
In conclusion, Coconut Chicken Tenders are a must-try for anyone looking to add a tropical twist to their favorite comfort food.
The combination of crispy, coconut-infused breading and tender, juicy chicken is simply irresistible. Plus, with the variety of serving suggestions and dipping sauces, you can customize this dish to suit your taste preferences.
Whether you’re a coconut lover or just looking to try something new, these Coconut Chicken Tenders are sure to become a new favorite.
They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. So what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and start breading!
