Coconut-crusted Chicken Tenders

Have I mentioned that I love coconut? I absolutely adore it. Unfortunately, hubs does not like the coconut. Sometimes I try to be considerate and not make all these deliciously tantalizing things with coconut in them just out of pure gluttony for myself. Sometimes, that is... Besides the fact that it is just plain yummy, coconuts also remind me of the beach, sun, summer, all of my favorite things. My happy place (in my head) is sitting on a hot, sunny beach, sipping some fabulous beverage of exotic tropical fruits surrounded by good company. Hmmmmm....... Alright, back to the coconut. These little chicken guys are absolutely fabulous. Hubs really liked them as well. So even if you aren't a coconut lover, give them a try. We love them dipped in Sweet Red Chile Sauce. You can find it at the grocery store in the Thai section. They are fabulous plain as well or with other sauces. Enjoy!

Coconut-crusted Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:
1 package boneless, skinless chicken tenders
1/2 Tablespoon vegetable/Canola oil
3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
3/4 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1/3 can light coconut milk
1/2 cup flour
1 Tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions:
Preheat oven to 400F.
1. Heat oil in a non-stick skillet. Add panko and cook until golden. Remove to a shallow dish to cool.

2. Using the same skillet, add coconut and brown slightly - do not overdo or the coconut will burn in the oven when the chicken is baked. Toss coconut with panko in the shallow dish.

3. Pour coconut milk into a second shallow dish. In a third dish, combine 1/2 cup flour with salt and pepper.

4. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray. Wash chicken and dry with paper towels. Dredge in flour, then dip in coconut milk, followed by coconut/panko mixture. Place on baking sheet.

5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through. Be careful that the coconut doesn't burn.

6. Serve with dipping sauce(s) of choice, if desired!

Recipe Source: Unfortunately, I cannot find where I found this recipe from. I found it on a blog somewhere on the web, but I went back a searchin' for it and I found nothin'. Thank you unknown blogger friend for the great recipe.