Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders Recipe

These Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthy alternative to fried chicken tenders! Tender chicken is coated in a crispy coconut crust and baked to golden perfection, then served with a sweet and tangy apricot Dijon dipping sauce. They’re easy to make, ready in under 40 minutes, and perfect for a family-friendly meal or a fun appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and crispy: The coconut coating creates a crispy and flavorful crust that’s perfectly balanced by the sweet and tangy dipping sauce.
• Easy to make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal prep work.
• Healthy: Baking the chicken tenders instead of frying them makes this a healthier option.
• Versatile: Serve these as a main course with your favorite sides, or as an appetizer for parties and gatherings.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders

This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Tenders: Use chicken tenders or chicken strips, not whole chicken breasts.
• All-Purpose Flour, Garlic Powder, Kosher Salt, Pepper: Used to create a light and flavorful coating for the chicken.
• Egg and Milk: Help the coconut flakes adhere to the chicken.
• Sweetened Coconut Flakes: Create a crispy and flavorful crust.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps the coconut flakes brown.
• Apricot Jam: Adds sweetness and a fruity flavor to the dipping sauce.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the dipping sauce.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

How to Make Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat together the egg and a splash of milk. Put the coconut flakes in a third bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg mixture (letting any excess drip off), and finally coat with the coconut flakes, pressing gently to help them adhere. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake

Drizzle the chicken tenders with melted butter. Bake for about 22 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Flip the tenders halfway through the cooking time. If the coconut is browning too quickly, tent the baking sheet with foil.

Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce

While the chicken is baking, prepare the apricot Dijon dipping sauce by mixing the apricot jam and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Keep the sauce in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders hot with the apricot Dijon dipping sauce.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Chicken tenders: Make sure to use chicken tenders or chicken strips, not whole chicken breasts.
• Coconut flakes: You can use unsweetened coconut flakes if you prefer a less sweet flavor.
• Dipping sauce: Feel free to experiment with other dipping sauces, such as honey mustard or barbecue sauce.

How to Serve Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders

• Main course: Serve the chicken tenders with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
• Appetizer: Serve the chicken tenders as an appetizer with the dipping sauce for a party or gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use panko breadcrumbs instead of coconut flakes?
Yes, you can use panko breadcrumbs for a classic breading.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake the chicken just before serving.

Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken tenders. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

My chicken tenders are dry, what did I do wrong?
If your chicken tenders are dry, it could be that you overcooked them. Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and avoid overbaking.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Baked Coconut Chicken Tenders. I hope you enjoy it!

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