Description
Crispy Coconut Chicken features tender chicken breasts coated in a crunchy blend of shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs, fried to golden perfection. Served with fresh lime wedges, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- If the chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets.
- Place the chicken in a large bowl and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Set up three shallow dishes for the breading process.
- In the first dish, add the all-purpose flour.
- In the second dish, crack the eggs and add the milk. Whisk together.
- In the third dish, combine the shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each marinated chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Press the chicken into the coconut and panko mixture, ensuring a thorough coating.
- Repeat for all chicken pieces and place them on a plate.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat, about 1/4 inch deep.
- Once hot, add the breaded chicken pieces, cooking in batches if necessary.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Repeat with remaining chicken, adding more oil as needed.
- Arrange the cooked chicken on a serving platter.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken.
- Pair with coconut rice, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken for longer than 30 minutes.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a crispy texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes