Perfectly Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders
Make perfectly crispy coconut chicken tenders at home! This simple recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with healthy cooking methods.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Base:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (look for even thickness)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper freshly ground preferred
- 1 tsp garlic powder
For the Coconut Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour foundation layer
- 2 large eggs beaten (room temperature)
- 2 cups shredded coconut sweetened or unsweetened
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs extra crunch
- Cooking spray or light oil for browning
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken (5 mins)
- Slice chicken into ½-inch thick, 3-4 inch long strips
- Pat completely dry with paper towels
- Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder
- Let rest 5 minutes for seasoning penetration
Step 2: Three-Station Coating Setup (3 mins)
- Station 1: All-purpose flour in shallow dish
- Station 2: Beaten eggs
- Station 3: Mixed coconut and panko breadcrumbs
- Pro Tip: Keep hands separate (one dry, one wet)
Step 3: Coating Process (7 mins)
- Dredge in flour, shake off excess
- Dip in beaten egg, let excess drip
- Press into coconut mixture for maximum coverage
- Optional: Double-dip for extra thick coating
Step 4: Cook to Perfection (12-15 mins)
- Air Fryer Method: 400°F, 8-10 minutes, flip halfway
- Oven Method: 425°F, 12-15 minutes until 165°F internal
- Success Indicator: Golden crispy coating, firm but springy texture
Notes
Per Serving Nutrition
Calories: 285
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 380mg
Total Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Total Sugars: 6g
Added Sugars: 0g
Protein: 28g
Iron: 1.5mg
Vitamin E: 2.1mg
Potassium: 420mg
Magnesium: 45mg
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 380mg
Total Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 4g
Total Sugars: 6g
Added Sugars: 0g
Protein: 28g
Iron: 1.5mg
Vitamin E: 2.1mg
Potassium: 420mg
Magnesium: 45mg