Crunchy, golden-brown chicken tenders coated in a flavorful blend of shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs, these Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders are a delicious fusion of tropical texture and savory comfort. Paired with a bold, sweet-and-spicy honey mustard dipping sauce, they make a standout main course or crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between crisp and juicy, sweet and spicy. The coconut adds a touch of natural sweetness and texture to the coating, while the spicy honey mustard sauce provides the perfect punch of flavor. Easy to prepare with pantry-friendly ingredients, these chicken tenders can be fried or baked for versatility. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner, game-day spread, or party platter, they deliver big flavor with minimal fuss.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken tenders
all-purpose flour
large eggs
shredded unsweetened coconut
panko breadcrumbs
garlic powder
paprika
salt and pepper
oil for frying or baking

For the spicy honey mustard sauce:

Dijon mustard
honey
mayonnaise
hot sauce (adjust to taste)
apple cider vinegar
salt

directions

Set up a dredging station with three bowls:
- Bowl 1: flour mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
- Bowl 2: beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs combined
Coat each chicken tender first in the seasoned flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally press into the coconut-panko mixture until fully coated.
For frying:
- Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
For baking:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the coated tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet and lightly spray with oil.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through.
For the sauce, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Serve the tenders hot, with the spicy honey mustard sauce on the side or drizzled over the top.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes (depending on cooking method)
Total Time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

Air Fryer Method: Cook the tenders in a preheated air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs.
Milder Sauce: Reduce or omit the hot sauce for a kid-friendly version.
Different Protein: Substitute chicken with turkey strips or firm tofu for an alternative.
Add Citrus: Add a touch of lime zest to the coconut coating for extra brightness.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 8–10 minutes until heated through and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the coating to lose its crunch. The sauce can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 5 days.

FAQs

Can I prepare these chicken tenders ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the tenders in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before frying or baking.

Is it better to fry or bake these tenders?

Frying gives a more classic crispy texture, while baking offers a lighter, less oily version. Both methods are delicious.

What kind of coconut should I use?

Use unsweetened shredded coconut for best results. Sweetened varieties may burn quickly during cooking.

Can I freeze these chicken tenders?

Yes, freeze them after breading or once fully cooked. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F oven or air fryer until hot and crisp.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear when cut.

Can I make this without the dipping sauce?

Yes, though the sauce enhances the flavor. You may substitute with other dips like ranch, BBQ, or sweet chili sauce.

What sides pair well with coconut chicken tenders?

Try serving with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh mango salsa.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, slice boneless chicken breasts into strips to use in place of tenders.

Is this recipe spicy?

The tenders themselves are not spicy; the heat comes from the dipping sauce, which can be adjusted to taste.

How do I keep the coating from falling off during cooking?

Press the coating firmly onto the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pan or baking sheet.

Conclusion

Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders with Spicy Honey Mustard Sauce offer a mouthwatering mix of textures and flavors in an easy-to-make format. Whether fried or baked, these tenders deliver a delicious crunch with a tropical twist, perfectly balanced by the bold dipping sauce. Ideal for family dinners, parties, or meal prep, this versatile recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.