Go Back
+ servings
Air fryer coconut chicken tenders.
4.62 from 21 votes

Air Fryer Crispy Coconut Chicken Tenders

These crispy coconut chicken tenders in the air fryer are better than deep fried! Enjoy.
Prep 20 minutes
Cook 12 minutes
Total 32 minutes
Fat 29
Carbs 17
Protein 43
Yield 4

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer to 380ºF and drizzle 2 teaspoons of coconut oil into the air fryer or spray with coconut oil cooking spray.
  • Slice the chicken breasts into 2-inch wide by 4-inch long strips. Set aside.
  • Add the coconut, garlic powder, breadcrumbs, chili powder, and salt to a medium bowl and mix until combined.
  • In a separate bowl add 2 large eggs to a bowl and whisk.
  • Dredge the chicken strips through the egg mixture and then dredge the chicken strips in the coconut mixture, making sure the strips are fully coated.
    A white plate with sesame seeds on it.
  • Place the chicken strips into the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping or overcrowded. You will have to cook these chicken strips in two or three batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
    Fried chicken in an air fryer.
  • Drizzle the chicken with 1-2 teaspoons of melted coconut oil. Then, air fry the chicken strips for 6 minutes, flip, and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF.
  • Remove the chicken from the air fryer and repeat until all the chicken strips are cooked.
    Fried chicken in an air fryer.
  • Serve with your favorite sauces

Tips & Notes

  • We do not recommend using sweetened coconut.
  • Everybody’s air fryer is different, so monitor your chicken while it is cooking to be sure it doesn’t overcook.
  • Oven directions: bake chicken tenders on a tin foil-lined baking sheet at 375ºF for around 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches around 165ºF.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 498kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 43g | Fat: 29g | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 3g