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When it comes to frying, the temperature of the oil is paramount. Properly heated oil ensures that your Crispy Coconut Chicken Bites come out golden and crunchy rather than greasy and soggy. The ideal frying temperature for chicken is between 350°F and 375°F (175°C to 190°C). At this temperature, the exterior of the chicken will crisp up quickly, sealing in moisture and flavor while cooking the meat inside evenly.

Crispy Coconut Chicken Bites

Discover the ultimate crowd-pleaser with Crispy Coconut Chicken Bites, a tasty treat perfect for any occasion! These bite-sized delights boast a golden, crunchy exterior and juicy chicken, delivering a fantastic flavor and texture contrast. Simple to prepare, this recipe highlights the sweet, tropical flavor of coconut paired with savory spices, ensuring every bite is irresistible. Perfect for parties or family dinners, learn how to make these scrumptious morsels that will leave everyone asking for more!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 large eggs

1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened, depending on preference)

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

Fresh lime wedges (for serving)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Breading Stations: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs. In a third shallow dish, mix the shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs until well combined.

    Bread the Chicken: Start by dipping each chicken piece in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, coat it in the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, roll the chicken piece in the coconut and panko mixture, pressing down gently to ensure a good coating. Repeat until all chicken pieces are coated.

      Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet but not too much that it will splatter excessively.

        Fry the Chicken Bites: Once the oil is hot (test by dropping in a small piece of breading; it should sizzle), carefully add the breaded chicken bites in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).

          Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken bites to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces.

            Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the crispy coconut chicken bites warm with fresh lime wedges and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce or a tangy cilantro-lime dip!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 4 servings