Are you ready to take your weeknight dinners to a whole new level? Say goodbye to boring chicken tenders and hello to the delightful crunch of Pistachio Coconut Baked Chicken Tenders! This mouthwatering recipe combines the nutty goodness of pistachios and the tropical sweetness of coconut, creating a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a dish that’s not only delicious but also impressively healthy. Perfect for both kids and adults, these tenders are sure to become a family favorite. Don’t miss out on the chance to elevate your dinner game—let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup crushed pistachios
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- In a food processor or using a rolling pin, crush the pistachios into fine, even crumbs. Transfer to a shallow mixing bowl.
- Add shredded coconut to the crushed pistachios and mix thoroughly to create a uniform coating mixture.
- In a separate bowl, crack the egg and whisk until well beaten. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better.
- Dip each chicken tender first into the beaten egg, ensuring complete coverage, then roll in the pistachio-coconut mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each tender for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken.
- Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or garlic aioli.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, high-quality chicken tenders and organic pistachios and coconut if possible.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the pistachio-coconut coating in advance and store it in an airtight container. This makes for a quick assembly when you're ready to cook.
- Moisture Matters: Pat the chicken tenders dry before coating them. This simple step ensures that the egg wash and the pistachio-coconut mixture adhere better, giving you a crispier finish.
- Space it Out: When placing the coated tenders on the baking sheet, make sure they are not touching. This allows for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Dipping Sauce Delight: Experiment with different dipping sauces to complement the flavors. Honey mustard and garlic aioli are fantastic choices, but feel free to get creative!
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the tenders to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken tender and juicy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 310kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
