Creating delicious, home-cooked meals is a wonderful way to bring warmth and comfort to your loved ones. One recipe that never fails to please is Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders. This dish combines crispy, tender chicken coated in a flavorful coconut crust, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner at home. Whether you’re looking to impress your family or simply treat yourself to a tasty meal, these Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders are sure to satisfy your cravings.
**Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb chicken tenders
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Cooking spray
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the chicken tenders from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. In three separate shallow dishes, prepare your coating station. In the first dish, add the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, beat the eggs until well combined. In the third dish, mix the shredded coconut, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper together.
3. Take each chicken tender and coat it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken tender evenly with the coconut mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
4. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other. This will help them cook evenly and get crispy all around.
5. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray. This will help them turn golden brown and crispy in the oven.
6. Bake the chicken tenders for 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and the coating is crispy. You can also flip them halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
7. Once the chicken tenders are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and flavorful.
These Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders are perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The crispy coconut crust adds a tropical twist to a classic favorite, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy the crunchy texture and juicy chicken with every bite, knowing that you’ve created a flavorful and comforting dish that will impress everyone at the table. Embrace the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe, and elevate your home cooking with these Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders!