Introduction
If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful twist on classic chicken tenders, this Crispy Coconut Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce is the perfect recipe for you. Imagine tender chicken strips coated in a crunchy coconut and cornflake mixture, baked to crispy perfection, and served with a sweet and spicy Bang Bang Sauce. It’s a meal that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious, combining tropical flavors with a spicy kick. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or serving guests, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
This recipe is ideal for anyone who enjoys crispy, crunchy chicken with bold, tangy flavors. The combination of coconut and cornflakes creates a unique, satisfying texture, while the Bang Bang Sauce adds a sweet, spicy, and tangy punch. Plus, since the chicken is baked and not fried, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. The ingredients are simple, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 cups cornflakes
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ cup sesame seeds
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (or tamari for a milder flavor)
- 2 pounds boneless chicken tenders
- Olive oil, for brushing
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayo
- ⅓ cup sweet Thai chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons coconut aminos (or tamari)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 small clove garlic, grated
- 2 teaspoons lime zest
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the chicken won’t stick and will help the coating stay crispy as it bakes.
2. Prepare the Coconut Coating
In a food processor, blend the unsweetened shredded coconut, cornflakes, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt until the mixture forms fine crumbs. Pour the crumb mixture into a shallow bowl and stir in the sesame seeds. This will be the crispy coating for your chicken tenders.
3. Coat the Chicken
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the hot sauce. Add the chicken tenders, tossing them to ensure they’re fully coated in the egg mixture. Then, dredge each chicken piece in the coconut-cornflake mixture, pressing to coat the chicken evenly on all sides.
Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle or brush the chicken with olive oil to help it get extra crispy in the oven.
4. Bake the Chicken
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the coating is golden and crispy, and the chicken is cooked through. Be sure to flip the chicken halfway through baking to ensure both sides crisp up nicely.
5. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken is baking, mix together all the sauce ingredients—mayo, sweet Thai chili sauce, coconut aminos, hot sauce, rice vinegar, grated garlic, and lime zest—in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well combined. The sauce should be creamy with a nice balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with lime wedges, chopped green onions, and serve with the Bang Bang Sauce for dipping. For an extra kick, mix a little extra chili sauce with ketchup for a tangy, spicy double-dip option. Enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Food processor for blending the coating
- Shallow bowls for dredging the chicken
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Small bowl for mixing the sauce
Tips and Shortcuts
- Crunchy Coating Tip: If you prefer an even crunchier coating, lightly toast the coconut and cornflakes in the oven before coating the chicken.
- Quick Dipping Sauce: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought sweet Thai chili sauce as a quick and easy dip instead of making the Bang Bang Sauce.
- Air Fryer Option: You can cook the chicken tenders in an air fryer for an even crispier texture. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the cornflakes with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free cornflakes for a completely gluten-free version.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for tofu or cauliflower florets to make a delicious plant-based alternative.
- Mild Flavor: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can skip the hot sauce and use tamari or soy sauce in both the chicken coating and the Bang Bang Sauce for a milder version.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover Crispy Coconut Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain the crispiness of the coating.
The Bang Bang Sauce can be stored in a separate container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Food and Drink Pairings
This Crispy Coconut Chicken pairs beautifully with a refreshing margarita or a light, crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a lime spritzer or a coconut water mojito to enhance the tropical flavors of the dish.
For sides, consider serving the chicken with jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the richness of the chicken and sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I fry the chicken instead of baking it?
A: Yes! You can pan-fry the chicken in a skillet with about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels before serving.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can coat the chicken and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking, but the chicken is best served fresh and crispy right out of the oven.
Q: What’s a good substitute for sweet Thai chili sauce?
A: If you can’t find sweet Thai chili sauce, you can mix apricot preserves with a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a similar sweet and spicy flavor.
Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.
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Crispy Coconut Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
Crispy Coconut Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce – a mouthwatering dish with a perfect crunch and zesty sauce for a flavor-packed meal. Try it today!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving