1 lb chicken tenders

1 cup shredded sweetened coconut

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp paprika

Cooking spray

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Prep the coating stations:

Bowl 1: Flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika

Bowl 2: Beaten eggs

Bowl 3: Mix shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs

Coat the chicken:

Dredge each tender in flour

Dip into the egg mixture

Press into the coconut-panko mixture until fully coated

Preheat air fryer:

Set to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes

Cook:

Lightly spray the air fryer basket

Arrange tenders in a single layer (don’t overcrowd)

Spray tops lightly with cooking spray

Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through

Serve:

Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce (sweet chili, honey mustard, or pineapple sauce)

Spicy Coconut Tenders: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the flour mixture
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal
Almond Coconut Crust: Mix crushed almonds into the coating for extra crunch
Oven Version: Bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway
Tropical Twist: Serve with mango salsa or pineapple dipping sauce