Easy Coconut Chicken with Creamy Bang Bang Sauce

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If you’re craving something crispy, creamy, and just a little tropical, this easy coconut chicken with creamy bang bang sauce is going to be your new favorite dinner idea. The chicken is tender on the inside with a crunchy coconut coating on the outside, making every bite irresistible. Pair it with the tangy, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce and you’ve got a meal that tastes like it came straight from a trendy café.

This recipe is perfect for weeknights when you want something special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It also works great for parties or game day spreads—because let’s be real, who can resist crispy coconut chicken dipped in a creamy chili sauce?

Why You’ll Love This Easy Coconut Chicken with Creamy Bang Bang Sauce

It’s easy to make, uses pantry staples, and feels like a treat. The chicken is baked or air-fried so you skip the oil splatter mess, and the sauce comes together in just a few minutes. The contrast between the crispiness of the coconut crust and the creamy, slightly spicy bang bang sauce makes this dish unforgettable.

What Kind of Coconut Should I Use?

For this recipe, use unsweetened shredded coconut or coconut flakes. Sweetened coconut tends to brown too quickly and may give the chicken an overly sugary flavor. You want a nice golden crunch without overwhelming sweetness. If you can find desiccated coconut, it toasts beautifully and sticks well to the chicken for that perfect texture.

Ingredients for the Easy Coconut Chicken with Creamy Bang Bang Sauce

The success of this dish is all about the contrast between crispy chicken and velvety sauce. You don’t need anything fancy, just quality basics.

• Chicken tenders or breasts: Cut into strips or chunks for easy coating and even cooking.
• Eggs: Help the coconut and breadcrumbs stick.
• All-purpose flour: A light dusting before the egg wash ensures the coating clings properly.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Adds extra crunch alongside the coconut.
• Unsweetened shredded coconut: Provides the golden crispy exterior and that subtle tropical flavor.
• Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning goes a long way here.

For the bang bang sauce:

• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the sauce.
• Sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and a hint of heat.
• Sriracha: For that bold kick.
• Honey or sugar: Optional, if you want to balance the spice with more sweetness.

How To Make the Easy Coconut Chicken with Creamy Bang Bang Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut the chicken into strips or bite-size chunks. Season with salt and pepper and set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of panko and shredded coconut.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken in flour, then egg, and finally coat it generously in the panko-coconut mix. Press the coating onto the chicken to make sure it sticks well.

Step 3: Bake or Air Fry

Preheat your oven to 400°F or your air fryer to 390°F. Arrange the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet or air fryer basket. Bake for 18–20 minutes or air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken cooks, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, a little sriracha, and honey (if using) in a small bowl. Adjust the spice level to your liking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the crispy coconut chicken with a side of bang bang sauce for dipping or drizzle it over the top. Add a sprinkle of green onions or cilantro if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Serve and Store This Easy Coconut Chicken

This recipe serves about 4 people, depending on how much chicken you start with and how hungry everyone is. Serve the chicken right after cooking for maximum crunch. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to bring the crisp back—microwaving can make the coating soggy.

What to Serve With Coconut Chicken?

Rice or Coconut Rice

Classic white rice or coconut rice is the perfect mellow partner to balance the rich sauce.

Asian Slaw

The crunchy texture and tangy dressing of a slaw bring brightness to the plate.

Roasted Broccoli

Roasted veggies like broccoli or green beans complement the crispy chicken with their earthiness.

Mango Salsa

Adds freshness, sweetness, and a pop of color.

Garlic Noodles

The savory notes of garlic noodles go really well with the sweet heat of the bang bang sauce.

Pineapple Fried Rice

Another tropical twist that works especially well with the coconut flavor.

Cucumber Salad

Cool and crisp, it adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken and sauce.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this easy coconut chicken, check out some of these flavorful recipes too:

• Try our Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs for a sticky-sweet savory punch.
• Craving creamy? Creamy Chicken and Broccoli is a weeknight winner.
• Go bold with Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes.
• Or opt for rich pasta vibes with Easy One Pan Mozzarella Chicken.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra spicy on the sauce? Maybe added a side of mango salsa?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s make dinner magic together.

Explore beautifully curated chicken dishes and more on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next crave-worthy meal: Zoe Recipes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Easy coconut chicken with creamy bang bang sauce is one of those meals that looks impressive but couldn’t be simpler to make. The crispy coating, tropical hint of coconut, and luscious sauce make every bite a flavor explosion. Whether you’re serving this as dinner, an appetizer, or party bites—it’s guaranteed to please.

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