If you’re looking for a delightful twist on the classic chicken nugget, look no further than Baked Coconut Cayenne Chicken Nuggets. This recipe combines the tropical sweetness of coconut with a spicy kick of cayenne pepper, making it a crowd-pleasing dish for those who crave both sweet and spicy flavors. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a fun snack, these nuggets are healthier than their fried counterparts as they are oven-baked, yet they retain their crispiness.
Whether you’re familiar with coconut-based chicken dishes or trying them for the first time, this recipe is easy to follow and can be adapted to your taste preferences. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from the coconut and cayenne, making it a delicious, guilt-free option.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Baked Coconut Cayenne Chicken Nuggets:
- Chicken Breast: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into nugget-sized pieces
- Cayenne Pepper: 1/2 tsp (adjust according to spice tolerance)
- Shredded Coconut: 1 cup unsweetened
- Coconut Flour: 1/2 cup
- Cayenne Powder: 1/2 tsp
- Coconut Oil: 2 tbsp, melted
- Coconut Milk: 1/2 cup
- Eggs: 2 large eggs
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Paprika: 1 tsp (optional for extra color and flavor)
- Panko Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (optional for added crunch)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with coconut oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Set Up the Coating Station
In one shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and coconut milk until well combined. In another bowl, mix the shredded coconut, coconut flour, panko breadcrumbs (if using), cayenne powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat the chicken thoroughly with the coconut mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated to ensure a crisp finish when baked.
Step 4: Bake the Nuggets
Arrange the coated chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle or brush the tops with melted coconut oil to help with browning. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when done.
Tips and Variations
- Spice Level: You can adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your preference. For a milder version, reduce the cayenne or substitute with paprika.
- Coating Variation: If you prefer a more breaded texture, add panko breadcrumbs to the coconut mixture. This creates a nice crunch while still keeping the coconut flavor intact.
- Crispiness: For extra crispy nuggets, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Variations:
- Baked Coconut Cayenne Chicken with Coconut Milk: You can marinate the chicken pieces in coconut milk and spices for a few hours before coating them. This will add an extra layer of moisture and tenderness to the meat.
- Baked Coconut Chicken Curry: Add some curry powder or turmeric to the coconut coating for a delightful curry-flavored twist.
- Oven-Baked Coconut Chicken Thighs: Replace chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier result. Thighs have more fat content, which makes them naturally more flavorful.
- Baked Coconut Cayenne Chicken Breast: If you’re a fan of larger portions, use whole chicken breasts instead of nuggets. Simply increase the baking time and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving (based on a recipe yielding 4 servings):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 570mg
Keep in mind that these values will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, such as the type of coconut milk or the addition of panko breadcrumbs.
These Baked Coconut Cayenne Chicken Nuggets are an excellent addition to any meal plan, offering a balance of spicy and sweet flavors that will satisfy a variety of taste preferences. They are also a healthier option compared to deep-fried nuggets, making them perfect for anyone looking to enjoy comfort food without the guilt. Serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice, like sweet chili sauce or honey mustard, for an extra burst of flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping for a party, these chicken nuggets are sure to be a hit. We’d love to hear how your recipe turned out! Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below, and follow us on social media for more exciting recipes. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates from easycrispyrecipes.com.