Published 4/25/2024 You’re going to absolutely love these ALWAYS crispy coconut chicken tenders that bake in 10-11 minutes in the air fryer. We’re using unsweetened shredded coconut and a short list of delicious spices and breadcrumbs for the ultimate coconut chicken tenders. All of our kiddos DEVOURED these coconut chicken tenders. They loved how crunchy they came out and how yummy they were dipped in a sweet and sour sauce (except for Gus — he’s a ketchup man through and through 🥰🥰🥰). The crispy coating on these chicken fingers is simple — made with unsweetened coconut, breadcrumbs, and spices.
What You Need to Make Coconut Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer
Boneless skinless chicken breasts: you’ll cut these into tenders, so feel free to use the same amount of boneless skinless chicken tenders. Unsweetened shredded coconut: we would not recommend using sweetened coconut as it may burn in the air fryer. Seasonings: We’re using a combination of garlic powder, breadcrumbs, chili powder and salt. Eggs: The eggs are used as an egg wash to ensure your coconut chicken tenders are completely covered in delicious shredded coconut and spices and crisped to perfection.
Top Tips for Always Crispy Chicken Fingers
Cut chicken tenders into equal size strips: Cutting your tenders into the same size will ensure they will all take about the same amount of time to cook. Air Fryer Check your shredded coconut bag: Triple check that your shredded coconut is unsweetened! A common mistake when making these chicken strips is accidentally using sweet coconut shreds. It will definitely change the taste of your chicken, and could burn in the air fryer. Don’t skip the oil: I know it’s tempting to skimp on the oil, but don’t! Drizzling the oil in the air fryer and over the chicken is essential. The air fryer only crisps things up if it has oil to work with.
Storage
Let the coconut chicken tenders cool completely. Then, transfer into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. To reheat: Preheat air fryer to 380ºF and place chilled, homemade chicken tenders in the air fryer. Air fry for 3-5 minutes or until hot.
Can You Freeze Coconut Chicken Tenders?
To freeze these coconut chicken tenders, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool completely. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe, airtight container. Remove as much air as possible and seal. Freeze for up to 3 months. This is a great option for making a large batch ahead of time.
Air Fryer Chicken Recipes
Air Fryer Chicken Breast Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Wings Air Fryer Coconut Chicken Tenders Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Air Fryer Honey Sesame Chicken
