Okay, friends, let me tell you about a dish that’s not only become my staple in my kitchen, but also become an extra special dish. What a crowd pleaser. We’re talking about **coconut chicken**! If you like sweet and savory flavors, and especially if you love easy weeknight meals, this recipe is for you. Is your new best friend about to become your best friends? What’s your favorite Fried Chicken? What is totally unexpected? What is the best chicken you’ve ever had? Think of it as the faster, tastier, way easier cousin of chicken katsu. I swear, it’s faster to make than ordering takeout, and tastes a million times better.
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What is coconut chicken?
What is Coconut Chicken? Think of it as crispy, golden pieces of chicken coated in a sweet and savory coconut breading. It’s essentially chicken that is breaded with shredded coconut and then pan-fried or baked until crispy. Is it crispy? Coconut adds a subtle sweetness and texture that you just don’t get with regular coconut. Is it really easy to make a sweet and salty combo? I think of it as bringing a little bit of island sunshine right to your dinner table, even on the couch. What are the g
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the reasons I love this recipe? What I love about this **coconut chicken** is how incredibly flavorful it is. The combination of the savory chicken, the sweet coconut, and the crunchy texture is just perfect. Isn’t it so easy to make? I can whip this up in under 30 minutes. It’s also very cost-effective. Chicken thighs are budget-friendly, and shredded coconut is relatively inexpensive. What are some great side dishes to serve with chicken? Rice, salad, veggies – the possibilities are endless. I find myself making this more often than I make regular Fried Chicken, because it’s healthier and I like it a lot. What is a unique twist on fried chicken? What do my kids ask for in their school lunches?
How do I make coconut chicken?
Quick Overview
How do you make coconut chicken? How do I make a coconut breading for chicken? What is the best way to fry chicken in breading? What makes this recipe so special is the coconut breading itself. Is it a game changer?
Ingredients
For the Chicken: How do you cook
* 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces. I like to use chicken thighs, but Chicken Breasts work too!
For the Coconut Breading:
* 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut. Is it safe to use unsweetened chicken? Can you use gluten free flour for a gluten-free version? * 1 teaspoon onion powder. * 1/2 teaspoon paprika. * 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick!). * Salt and pepper to taste.
For the Egg Wash:
* 2 large eggs. * 1 tablespoon of milk or water.
For Cooking:
* 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil or coconut oil. I love coconut oil for extra coconut flavor, but vegetable oil works great too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
How do you pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels?
Step 2: Make the Coconut Breading
In a shallow dish, combine the shredded coconut, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash
In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk or water.
Step 4: Bread the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash, then dredge it in the coconut breading, making sure to coat it evenly. Press the breading onto the chicken so it sticks well.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan!). Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve
Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain. Serve immediately and enjoy!
What should I serve it with?
Where can I get creative? Coconut chicken is so versatile, it goes with almost anything. What are some of my favorite ways to serve it: a glass of wine.
What is the best recipe for rice and veg Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice with a side of steamed broccoli or Green Beans for a complete and balanced meal. This is a go-to for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
In Tacos or Wraps:Can you use coconut chicken as a filling for tacos or wraps? Add some shredded cabbage, carrots, and a drizzle of sweet chili sauce for an amazing Asian-inspired dish. I’ve done this with soft flour tortillas and crisp lettuce wraps, and both were great.
With a Salad:What is a good salad to serve with coconut chicken? I love pairing this with a mango salsa or pineapple vinaigrette.
As an Appetizer: Serve the coconut chicken with a dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce, honey mustard, or a coconut curry sauce for a fun and flavorful appetizer. This is ALWAYS a hit at parties.
I also like to serve it with a squeeze of fresh lime juice, which really brightens up the flavors!
What are some tips for perfecting coconut chicken?
Alright, let me share some of my best tips for making sure your coconut chicken turns out perfect every single time.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Do When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will lower the temperature of the oil and cause the chicken to steam instead of getting crispy. Cook in batches if needed.
What is a meat thermometer? To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
Don’t skip the egg wash: Why? The egg wash is crucial for helping the coconut breading stick to the chicken. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in the coconut breading to your liking. Add more cayenne pepper for extra heat, or try using different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
What is a healthier option to bake? Instead of pan-frying, you can bake the coconut chicken for a healthier option. Place the breaded chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. I spray the chicken with cooking spray before baking to help it get crispy.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
If you have any leftover coconut chicken (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat it:
Storing: Store the leftover coconut chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: The best way to reheat coconut chicken is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, but it may not be as crispy.
Freezing: You can also freeze coconut chicken for longer storage. Wrap the chicken pieces individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This coconut chicken recipe is truly a winner! It’s easy, flavorful, and always a hit with my family. The crispy coconut breading adds a unique texture and a subtle sweetness that you just can’t get with regular fried chicken. If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight meal, or a fun appetizer for your next party, this recipe is a must-try. And if you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other Asian-inspired dishes for more culinary inspiration! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Happy cooking!
Coconut Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts
- 1 cup Coconut milk
- 0.5 cup Chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Brown sugar
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large skillet, brown chicken over medium-high heat.
- Add coconut milk, chicken broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
