Introduction

Crispy Coconut Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce is a crave-worthy dish that combines ultra-crunchy coconut-crusted chicken with a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that coats every bite. The contrast between the golden, crispy exterior and the juicy chicken inside—finished with a bold Bang Bang sauce—makes this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

What Is Coconut Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce?

Coconut Chicken features chicken pieces breaded in seasoned flour, egg, and shredded coconut, then fried or baked until crisp. Bang Bang Sauce—popularized by Asian-fusion restaurants—is a creamy chili sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a touch of heat. Together, they create a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.

Why This Recipe Is So Popular

Extra-crispy texture with juicy chicken

Sweet coconut flavor balanced by spicy sauce
Perfect as an appetizer or main dish
Better than restaurant versions when fresh

Easily adaptable for baking or air frying

Key Ingredients and Their Role

Chicken

Boneless chicken breast or thighs provide tender protein.

Shredded Coconut

Creates the signature crunch and subtle sweetness.

Panko Breadcrumbs

Enhance crispiness without heaviness.

Eggs and Flour

Help the coating adhere properly.

Bang Bang Sauce

Adds creamy heat and sweet tang.

Choosing the Right Coconut

Sweetened shredded coconut: Best for classic flavor
Unsweetened coconut: Less sweet, more savory
Flaked coconut: Extra crunch but browns faster

For balanced flavor, a mix of shredded coconut and panko works best.

Equipment You’ll Need

Mixing bowls
Shallow breading dishes

Frying pan or deep fryer
Baking sheet (for baked version)
Wire rack

Crispy Coconut Chicken Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Chicken

1½ lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into strips
1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs
1½ cups shredded coconut
1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika

Vegetable oil for frying

Bang Bang Sauce

½ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup sweet chili sauce
1–2 tbsp sriracha (to taste)
1 tbsp honey or sugar

1 tsp rice vinegar

Step 1: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up three bowls: flour seasoned with salt and pepper, beaten eggs, and a mixture of coconut and panko.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

Dredge chicken in flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in coconut mixture.

Step 3: Fry Until Golden

Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Drain on a wire rack.

Step 4: Make Bang Bang Sauce

Whisk all sauce ingredients until smooth and creamy. Adjust heat to taste.

Step 5: Serve

Serve chicken hot with Bang Bang sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping.

Baking and Air Fryer Options

Oven-Baked Version

Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Air Fryer Version

Air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking basket halfway.

Tips for Ultra-Crispy Coconut Chicken

Press coating firmly onto chicken

Fry in small batches
Use a wire rack, not paper towels
Serve immediately for best texture

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Oil temperature too low
Overcrowding the pan
Using only coconut without breadcrumbs

Overcooking chicken

Variations and Flavor Twists

Spicy Coconut Chicken

Add cayenne or chili flakes to the breading.

Pineapple Coconut Chicken

Serve with pineapple salsa.

Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Keto-Friendly Version

Use almond flour and unsweetened coconut.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with jasmine rice or coconut rice

Pair with fresh slaw or cucumber salad
Perfect for game day or parties

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days

Reheat in oven or air fryer to restore crispiness
Sauce keeps refrigerated up to 5 days

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

Calories: 580

Protein: 34 g
Fat: 36 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bang Bang Sauce very spicy?

It can be adjusted from mild to very spicy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Chicken is best fried fresh, but sauce can be made ahead.

What oil is best for frying?

Neutral oils such as vegetable or peanut oil.

Why Crispy Coconut Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce Is a Must-Try

This dish delivers unbeatable crunch, juicy chicken, and a perfectly balanced sauce that hits sweet, savory, and spicy notes all at once.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Coconut Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce is an indulgent yet approachable recipe that brings restaurant-style excitement to your home kitchen. With proper technique and the right balance of coconut crunch and creamy heat, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Once you try it, it will quickly become a repeat favorite for dinners, parties, and special occasions.

Crispy Coconut Chicken with Bang Bang Sauce (Crunchy, Sweet & Spicy)

Author: WAFA LI

Print Recipe

Ingredients

For chicken:
• 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken tenders or breast, cut into 1″ strips
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1½ cups unsweetened shredded coconut
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free crumbs)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• Oil for frying or baking spray (if baking)

For Bang Bang Sauce:
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)
• 2 tbsp Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
• 1 tsp lime juice
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Optional: 1 tsp honey or maple syrup for extra gloss

Instructions

Prep breading: Mix shredded coconut, panko, garlic powder, and salt in a shallow bowl. Place flour in another bowl, eggs in a third.

Bread chicken: Dredge each strip in flour → egg → coconut mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
Option 1 – Fry: Heat ½” oil in skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry 3–4 min per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal). Drain on rack.
Option 2 – Bake: Place on parchment-lined sheet. Spray lightly with oil. Bake at 425°F (220°C) 15–18 min, flipping halfway, until crisp and cooked.

Make sauce: Whisk all sauce ingredients until smooth.
Toss or drizzle: Either toss warm chicken in sauce, or plate and drizzle generously. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or lime wedges.
💡 For meal prep: Keep sauce separate; toss just before serving to maintain crispness.