Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to a tropical paradise. This Coconut Chicken recipe offers the perfect balance of crispy exterior, tender meat, and a sweet-savory flavor profile that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: 4, boneless and skinless
- Shredded coconut: 1 cup (100g), sweetened
- Panko breadcrumbs: 1 cup (120g)
- All-purpose flour: 1/2 cup (60g)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Milk: 1 tbsp (15ml)
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Vegetable oil: 1 cup (240ml), for frying
Dipping Sauce Ingredients:
- Sweet chili sauce: 1/2 cup (120ml)
- Honey: 2 tbsp (30ml)
- Lime juice: 1 tbsp (15ml)
- Soy sauce: 1 tbsp (15ml)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Slice each chicken breast into uniform strips or cutlets. This ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Create the Coating Stations Set up three separate bowls:
- First bowl: Mix flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
- Second bowl: Whisk eggs with milk
- Third bowl: Combine shredded coconut and Panko breadcrumbs
- Coat the Chicken Dredge each chicken strip through the stations:
- First, coat in seasoned flour
- Next, dip in egg mixture, letting excess drip off
- Finally, press into coconut-Panko mixture, ensuring even coating
- Fry to Golden Perfection
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat
- Fry chicken strips in batches for 3-4 minutes per side
- Cook until golden brown and crispy
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce Whisk together sweet chili sauce, honey, lime juice, and soy sauce Taste and adjust seasoning as needed
- Serve and Enjoy Plate the crispy coconut chicken with the dipping sauce Optional: Garnish with fresh lime wedges or chopped cilantro
Nutrition and Serving
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Approximate Nutrition per Serving:
- Calories: 420-450
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 22g
Why This Coconut Chicken is a Nutritious Delight
This Coconut Chicken isn’t just a feast for your taste buds—it’s a nutritionally balanced meal that offers several health benefits. The lean chicken provides high-quality protein essential for muscle maintenance and growth. The coconut adds a layer of healthy fats and a unique texture, while the Panko breadcrumbs create that irresistible crunch.
The cooking method, though involving frying, can be made healthier by using a moderate amount of oil and draining excess. The homemade dipping sauce allows control over sugar and sodium levels, making it a more nutritious alternative to store-bought sauces.
The combination of protein, moderate carbohydrates, and flavorful coating makes this dish a satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner or a unique party appetizer, this Coconut Chicken is sure to impress!