Crispy Coconut Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe

Gather all the ingredients for the crispy coconut baked chicken breasts recipe

This recipe requires fewer than 10 ingredients: two fresh boneless chicken breasts, one egg, ground almonds, shredded coconut, flour, coconut milk, salt, black pepper, and a small amount of vegetable oil or melted coconut oil.

Step 1: Marinate the chicken

Put the chicken in a bowl and pour in the coconut milk. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour.

Step 2: Conbine the flour, salt, and black pepper

Combine the flour, salt, and black pepper using a whisk.

Step 3: Combine the ground almonds and coconut

In a sufficiently large bowl that can accommodate the chicken breast, combine the coconut and ground almonds.

Step 4: Whisk the egg

Beat the egg.

Step 5: Grease a baking dish

Pour the oil into a baking dish and set it aside.

Step 6: Preheat the oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F 30 minutes prior to cooking.

Step 7: Remove the chicken from the coconut milk and dip in the flour

Remove one of the chicken breasts and allow the coconut milk to drain off the meat.

Step 8: Dip in the egg and coconut mixture

Coat it in the flour, then in the egg, and finally in the coconut mixture. Do the same with the other piece of meat.

Step 9: Place on a baking dish

Position the chicken on the baking sheet.

Step 10: Bake until golden brown and crispy

Place in the center of the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

How should you serve crispy coconut baked chicken breasts?

For a refreshing twist, try pairing the chicken with a colorful mango salsa. The succulent sweetness of ripe mangoes, paired with zesty lime and a hint of cilantro, creates a delightful contrast to the rich, crispy chicken. This salsa not only adds a vibrant splash of color but also infuses the dish with a lively, tropical essence. Additionally, consider serving a tropical mango avocado salad featuring crunchy cucumber and cherry tomatoes, which will enhance the chicken's flavors while bringing a burst of freshness to your plate.

For a healthier alternative, accompany the chicken with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a balanced and nutritious meal. A light green salad is also an excellent option. You might also enjoy pairing it with coconut rice to elevate the tropical theme. The aromatic, subtly sweet coconut rice pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken.

How do you store crispy coconut baked chicken breasts?

After the chicken has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it securely in a kitchen paper towel followed by plastic wrap. Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the coating by preventing moisture buildup. If you wish to keep the chicken for a longer time, freezing is an excellent choice. Individually wrap each chicken breast in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a resealable plastic freezer bag. Be sure to expel as much air as possible from the bag to avoid freezer burn. Don’t forget to label the bag with the date for your reference. Frozen crispy coconut chicken can last for approximately 2-3 months.

To reheat the chicken, using an oven or toaster oven is recommended to preserve its crispiness. Preheat the oven to about 350°F, arrange the chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-15 minutes or until thoroughly heated. While a microwave can be used for a quicker reheating option, it may result in a less crispy coating. Keep in mind that while reheating can restore some crispiness, it may not be as perfect as when it was freshly cooked.

Can you make crispy coconut baked chicken breasts in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare this crispy coconut baked chicken breasts recipe ahead of time, making it a great choice for meal prep or special events. Begin by marinating the chicken breasts in coconut milk as directed in the recipe. You can let them soak for an hour or even overnight in the fridge to enhance the flavor. After marinating, follow the coating steps, arrange the chicken on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze until completely solid. Once frozen, transfer the pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container, placing parchment paper between each piece to avoid sticking. When stored properly, they can last in the freezer for 2-3 months.

If you intend to use them within a few days, wrap the coated chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to cook, preheat your oven or air fryer, and bake or air fry the chicken breasts according to the original recipe instructions. If cooking from frozen, you may need to extend the cooking time by a few minutes.

Can you make crispy coconut baked chicken breasts in an air fryer?

Preparing crispy coconut baked chicken breasts in an air fryer is an excellent option that can produce delightfully crunchy results. Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F. This step is essential for ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that desired crispiness. Follow the same preparation method as outlined in the recipe. Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the coating turns golden brown and crispy. After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat tender and moist.

Air frying typically cooks food faster than traditional baking, making it a more time-efficient choice. Additionally, air fryers often consume less energy compared to preheating and operating a conventional oven. Depending on your air fryer's capacity, you may need to cook the chicken in batches, which can be less convenient for larger servings. Try both methods to discover which one best fits your preferences and lifestyle.