There are really only two people who will eat shrimp in my house – Matt and me. I suppose if I DID do coconut shrimp they might try it…but I am not sure it is worth the expense.
The other day I accidentally picked up chicken tenders rather than breast at Costco. I didn’t realize it until I had the package open and was ready to cook dinner. Being a woman of snap decisions and a strong survival instinct (you haven’t seen my kids when they are hungry,have you?) I decided that coconut chicken would be the way to go. I briefly marinated the chicken in a little orange juice just to give it a little flavor. Next time I do it I think I will marinate it in pineapple juice…
Pat it dry and do a quick breading… toss it into the pan to fry and you are looking at less than thirty minutes from start to finish. This Clementine, Fennel and Pistachio salad would be a great addition to the meal and if you need carbs just add some couscous. Dessert is easy too- what about vanilla ice cream with sliced mangos.
I like my Spicy Mango Habenero sauce to dip it in. That will not add any time but you have to remember to make it the night before.
Here is my entry this week for Real Food Real Quick. Hey, consider submitting an entry of your own next week, o.k.?
Tender boneless chicken breast tenders coated in a crispy batter that contains coconut shreds. A delicious twist on fried chicken with an exotic flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup flour
- 1 1/3 cup gingerale
- 1 Tbs baking powder
- pinch of salt
- 2 cups flaked coconut, chopped
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 lbs Chicken tenders
- 1/3 cup peanut oil or more as needed
Instructions
- Heat oil to 350F in a large frying pan.
- Beat eggs in medium bowl.
- Combine egg, 1 cup flour, gingerale, salt and baking powder.
- Place coconut and remaining flour in separate dishes.
- Dredge the chicken in the flour, then dip in batter, then dredge through the coconut.
- Fry in the oil until golden brown, turning once.
- Drain on paper towel and transfer to baking sheet in a warm oven.
- You can also make this in a deep fryer if you like.
images: marye audet
