If you are on the lookout for an exotic treat that combines crispy, juicy chicken with a deliciously creamy and spicy dip, then look no further than this Easy Coconut Chicken with Creamy Bang Bang Sauce. This recipe seamlessly blends textures and flavors, making it an exciting option for dinner or as an amazing appetizer for gatherings. The unique combination of panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut creates a crunchy golden covering for the chicken, making each bite a burst of tropical delight. Plus, the enhanced flavor of the creamy bang bang sauce elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Not only is this dish enjoyable and satisfying, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. With preparation and cooking times totaling just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time flat. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family dinner, or simply craving something new and exciting, this Easy Coconut Chicken will have your taste buds dancing. The versatility of this dish allows for endless enjoyment, whether served on its own, as a side, or tossed into your favorite salad. Try this dish today, and you’ll see why it’s such a beloved favorite in many households!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Coconut Chicken with Creamy Bang Bang Sauce
- Delicious Flavor: The tropical flavor of coconut paired with the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce is irresistibly delicious.
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a quick meal.
- Versatile Dish: Works great as an appetizer, snack, or main dish; customizable to suit various diets!
- Crispy Texture: The combination of panko breadcrumbs and coconut offers a satisfying crunch.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for entertaining or family dinners — sure to impress!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this delightful recipe, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Start by ensuring your work area is clean and organized to create a focused cooking space. You’ll need three mixing bowls — one for the flour mixture, one for the beaten eggs, and one for the coating of panko and shredded coconut. A large, heavy-bottom frying pan or skillet is also essential for getting that perfect golden crisp on the chicken. If you have a deep fryer, that can also work wonderfully for an even better frying experience.
It’s important to prep the chicken first — slice your chicken tenders or breasts as needed and pat them dry to ensure a crispier texture. Having paper towels on hand is a great idea to drain excess oil after frying. Lastly, be sure to keep a wire rack handy if you prefer to allow the excess oil to drip away from the chicken while keeping it warm and crispy.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken tenders or chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by slicing your chicken into strips for easy handling. It’s recommended to use chicken tenders or breasts, depending on your preference. After slicing, pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels; this step is essential for achieving that coveted crispy texture. Moisture can sog up the breading, so ensuring that the chicken is dry is key to a successful and delicious result.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Next, it’s time to create your breading station. Grab three bowls and label them for easy identification: in the first bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper; mix well. In the second bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly until smooth. The third bowl will contain your coconut and panko breadcrumb combination. Start with the plain flour mixture, then dip the chicken in that, followed by the egg wash, and finally press it firmly into the panko and coconut mix to ensure an even coating.
Step 3: Heat Your Oil
Place a large heavy-bottom frying pan on the stove. Pour in enough vegetable oil so that it reaches about 1 inch deep and heat over medium. When the oil is hot enough for frying, it will shimmer slightly. Do a test with a small piece of chicken; if it starts bubbling actively, it’s time to add the rest of your chicken strips.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the breaded chicken strips into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, which can cause the temperature to drop and affect cooking. Fry in batches, cooking each side for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn to a beautiful golden brown and are fully cooked through on the inside. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the chicken from the oil and let them drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
Step 5: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken is frying, take a moment to prepare the creamy bang bang sauce. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey or maple syrup (if using). Adjust the spice level by including more or less sriracha according to your taste preference. This sauce should be creamy, slightly sweet, and perfectly spicy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your chicken is crispy and the sauce is ready, it’s time to serve. You can drizzle the bang bang sauce over the crispy coconut chicken or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped scallions or cilantro for an added touch of freshness, if desired. Enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!
Variations
- Protein: Swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option!
- Vegetables: Add vegetables like zucchini or eggplant, cut into strips, and follow the same breading and frying steps.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne in the flour mixture for added flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that nice golden-brown finish.
- If you prefer baking over frying, place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a fresh salad for a healthier option.
- Pair with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Consider fresh veggies or pickled cucumbers as a side for an added crunch!
Tips
- For extra crispiness, consider double-dipping your chicken by repeating the flour, egg, and panko-coating steps.
- Adjust the consistency of the bang bang sauce by adding more mayonnaise or chili sauce based on your preference.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: ~25g per serving
- Sodium: ~600mg per serving
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, frozen chicken can be used if it’s properly thawed beforehand. Ensure that the chicken is patted dry before breading.
Can I make bang bang sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The bang bang sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
What can I serve with coconut chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as salad, rice, or steamed vegetables. Feel free to get creative!
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, if you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the chicken in an oven instead of frying it. Just make sure to follow the recommended temperature and time for optimal results.
Conclusion
This Easy Coconut Chicken with Creamy Bang Bang Sauce is a delightful dish that perfectly blends texture, flavor, and ease of preparation. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The crispy coconut coating adds a tropical twist while the bang bang sauce enhances the overall flavor profile, making it truly irresistible. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe out yourself — and be sure to share your experience and any variations you make in the comments section below. Happy cooking!
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Easy Coconut Chicken with Creamy Bang Bang Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Coconut Chicken with Creamy Bang Bang Sauce is a delightful dish that combines crispy, juicy chicken with a deliciously creamy and spicy dip.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken tenders or chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise
- 0.25 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by slicing your chicken into strips for easy handling. It’s recommended to use chicken tenders or breasts, depending on your preference. After slicing, pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels; this step is essential for achieving that coveted crispy texture.
- Next, it’s time to create your breading station. Grab three bowls: in the first bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper; mix well. In the second bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly until smooth. The third bowl will contain your coconut and panko breadcrumb combination. Start with the plain flour mixture, then dip the chicken in that, followed by the egg wash, and finally press it firmly into the panko and coconut mix to ensure an even coating.
- Place a large heavy-bottom frying pan on the stove. Pour in enough vegetable oil so that it reaches about 1 inch deep and heat over medium. When the oil is hot enough for frying, it will shimmer slightly. Test with a small piece of chicken; if it starts bubbling actively, it’s time to add the rest of your chicken strips.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken strips into the hot oil. Fry in batches, cooking each side for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn to a beautiful golden brown and are fully cooked through on the inside. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the chicken from the oil and let them drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
- While the chicken is frying, prepare the creamy bang bang sauce. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey or maple syrup (if using). Adjust the spice level by including more or less sriracha according to your taste preference.
- Once your chicken is crispy and the sauce is ready, it’s time to serve. Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the crispy coconut chicken or serve it on the side for dipping. Enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!
Notes
Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If you prefer baking over frying, place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 25 g