Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that brings the tropics to your dinner table! This Air Fryer Coconut Chicken is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that combines the crunch of golden breadcrumbs and the sweet, tropical flavor of coconut, all while being lighter and healthier thanks to the air fryer. Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these chicken tenders are sure to impress your family and friends. And the best part? You can whip this up in just 35 minutes! So, are you ready to discover how to make this mouthwatering dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken tenders by patting them completely dry with paper towels to ensure crispy coating adherence.
- In a shallow bowl, combine shredded coconut and breadcrumbs, mixing thoroughly to create an even coating mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well blended and smooth.
- Dip each chicken tender first into the beaten eggs, ensuring complete coverage, then immediately roll in the coconut-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere firmly.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes to ensure proper cooking temperature.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking and help achieve a crispy exterior.
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching each other for even cooking.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- Check internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer for food safety.
- Remove from air fryer and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow coating to set and juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce or tropical fruit salsa.
Tips
- Dry the Chicken Well: Ensure your chicken tenders are patted completely dry with paper towels before coating. This step is crucial for achieving that desired crispy texture.
- Customize Your Coating: Feel free to experiment with the coating! You can add spices like paprika or garlic powder to the breadcrumb and coconut mixture for an extra flavor kick.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Don’t skip preheating your air fryer. This helps to create a perfect cooking environment that ensures even cooking and browning.
- Don't Overcrowd the Basket: Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer without overlapping. This allows hot air to circulate properly, giving you that perfect crunch.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For the best results, check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Let Them Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes. This helps the coating to set and the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more delicious.
- Pair with Dipping Sauces: Serve your coconut chicken with sweet chili sauce or a refreshing tropical fruit salsa to enhance the flavors and add a fun twist to your meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 276kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 153mg
