🥥🍗 Coconut Chicken with a Zesty Bang Bang Sauce
Crispy. Tropical. Irresistibly spicy.
If you’re craving something crunchy, flavorful, and a little bit exotic, this Coconut Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce is your perfect dinner pick. Think golden-baked chicken strips coated in a crunchy coconut-cornflake crust, paired with a creamy, spicy-sweet dipping sauce that’s downright addictive. Best part? It’s oven-baked — not fried — so it’s lighter without sacrificing that satisfying crunch!
🌴 Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- Cornflakes (about 2 cups)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into strips
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tsp sriracha (adjust for heat)
🔥 Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Crunchy Coating
In a food processor, pulse together the cornflakes, shredded coconut, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Pulse just enough to break it into small, flaky crumbs — not powder!
3. Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken strip into the coating mixture, pressing gently to help the crumbs stick well. No need for egg wash — the chicken’s natural moisture is often enough.
4. Bake to Perfection
Lay the coated strips on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden, crispy, and cooked through.
5. Mix the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, combine mayo, Thai chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust the heat level by adding more or less sriracha depending on your spice tolerance.
6. Serve and Devour
Serve the hot coconut chicken with a generous side of bang bang sauce for dipping — or drizzle it right over the top for an extra punch!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a tropical salad or steamed jasmine rice.
- Add fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro for brightness.
- Want it low-carb? Try it with cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
💡 Pro Tips:
- Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free cornflakes!
- Air fryer version: Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Double the sauce if you’re a dipper — you’ll want extra, trust us!
