Baked Coconut Chicken Strips
Baked Coconut Chicken Strips are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. With their crispy exterior and tender, juicy chicken inside, these strips are perfect for a quick meal or a fun snack. The coconut adds a sweet, tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken. Plus, baking instead of frying means you can enjoy them guilt-free! Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or party food, these strips are sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Baked Coconut Chicken Strips are not only delicious but also easy to make! They are:
- Healthy: Baked instead of fried, they provide a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- Quick: With simple prep and cooking times, you can have this dish ready in no time.
- Versatile: Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces or serve them over a salad for a complete meal.
- Kid-Friendly: The sweet coconut flavor makes them a hit with kids, making dinnertime a breeze.
The Essentials
To make your Baked Coconut Chicken Strips, you’ll need a few basic ingredients and tools:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, cut into strips for easy eating.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the coating stick.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the chicken and coconut.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper: A touch of spice to complement the sweetness of coconut.
- 1 cup coconut flakes: Unsweetened or shredded coconut gives the strips their signature flavor and crunch.
- Your favorite sauce: A perfect dip for those crispy strips.
What’s in the Gear List
To prepare your Baked Coconut Chicken Strips like a pro, here’s what you’ll need:
- Cutting board: For slicing the chicken into strips.
- Sharp knife: Essential for clean, even cuts.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy surface for baking the chicken strips.
- Parchment paper: Optional, but helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients and coating the chicken.
Baked Coconut Chicken Strips: From Prep to Plate
Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these scrumptious Baked Coconut Chicken Strips.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken strips cook evenly and become perfectly crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts into strips, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken strips with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is well-coated in the oil and seasonings.
Step 4: Coat with Coconut
In another bowl, place the coconut flakes. Take each chicken strip and press it into the coconut, ensuring it is well-coated on all sides.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Lay the coconut-coated chicken strips in a single layer, making sure they are not touching.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coconut is golden brown.
Step 7: Prepare the Dipping Sauce
While the chicken is baking, whip up a quick dipping sauce by mixing together:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons lite soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Mix until smooth, and set aside.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once your chicken strips are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with your dipping sauce on the side.
How to Make It Lighter
If you’re looking to lighten up this recipe even further, consider these tips:
- Use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor while still being healthier.
- Reduce the amount of coconut flakes to cut down on calories.
- Serve with a yogurt-based dip instead of ketchup for a fresher option.
- Try air frying instead of baking for less oil and a crispier texture.
Chef’s Notes
- Feel free to add spices like garlic powder or paprika to the coconut mixture for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a sweeter sauce, consider adding a tablespoon of honey to the dipping sauce recipe.
- These coconut chicken strips can also be marinated in lime juice for a zesty twist before coating.
- For extra crunch, consider adding crushed nuts to the coconut mixture.
Best Ways to Store
To keep your Baked Coconut Chicken Strips fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked strips in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.
Reader Q&A
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before slicing and seasoning. This will ensure even cooking.
Can I add other spices to the coconut coating?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
Can I substitute the coconut with something else?
If you’re not a fan of coconut, try using panko breadcrumbs for a different texture and flavor.
What can I serve with these chicken strips?
These Baked Coconut Chicken Strips pair well with a variety of sides such as salads, fries, or rice. They also make a great addition to a party platter!
Explore More
If you love these Baked Coconut Chicken Strips, check out more delicious recipes:
- Sally’s Baking Addiction – For scrumptious desserts and baked goods.
- Pinch of Yum – A treasure trove of healthy recipes and food photography.
- Minimalist Baker – Focused on simple, delicious vegan recipes.
- Food Network – Classic recipes and cooking tips from renowned chefs.
Bring It Home
Now that you have the recipe for Baked Coconut Chicken Strips, it’s time to bring the flavors of the tropics to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can create a dish that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or a meal, these chicken strips are sure to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this crispy, coconutty delight!
Baked Coconut Chicken Strips
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the chicken breasts into strips, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken strips with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until well-coated.
- In another bowl, place the coconut flakes. Take each chicken strip and press it into the coconut, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay the coconut-coated chicken strips in a single layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coconut is golden brown.
- While the chicken is baking, whip up a quick dipping sauce by mixing ketchup, soy sauce, water, and pepper until smooth.
- Once the chicken strips are golden and crispy, serve warm with your dipping sauce on the side.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze cooked strips in a single layer on a baking sheet for up to 2 months.
- To maintain crispiness, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.
