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Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders with Zesty Dipping Sauce

A stack of golden brown, crispy coconut chicken tenders on a white plate with a side of dipping sauce.
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Make crispy coconut chicken tenders that are crunchy and tropical. These are simple to prepare for a weeknight dinner or as an appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup almond flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Cooking spray or oil for baking/frying

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare your air fryer. If frying, heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes.
  3. In the first dish, mix the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  4. In the second dish, place the beaten eggs.
  5. In the third dish, combine the shredded coconut, panko breadcrumbs, and almond flour. Mix well.
  6. Take each chicken strip and dredge it lightly in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
  7. Dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, letting any extra drip off.
  8. Press the chicken firmly into the coconut mixture, coating all sides completely.
  9. Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in the air fryer basket. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray for extra crispness.
  10. Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C). If frying, cook in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  11. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as a sweet chili or homemade Bang Bang sauce.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your panko is certified gluten-free, or use extra almond flour.
  • To achieve the best crunch, do not overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer basket when cooking.
  • These tenders pair well served over jasmine rice or a simple green salad for a full meal.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/crispy-coconut-chicken-tenders-recipe/