Tropical Coconut Chicken

Tropical Coconut Chicken Recipe from Jamaica

Region / culture: Jamaica | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tropical Coconut Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of coconut with the savory taste of chicken. This recipe is perfect for those who love tropical flavors and want to try something new and exciting in their kitchen.

History

The origins of Tropical Coconut Chicken are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the Caribbean or Southeast Asia, where coconut is a common ingredient in many dishes. This recipe has since become popular in many parts of the world for its unique and delicious flavor.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 large egg, slightly beaten
1 tsp water
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp pepper
1 cup firmly packed flaked coconut

How to prepare

Place the chicken between two pieces of wax paper and gently pound it to a thickness of 0.25 inches.
In a small bowl, combine the egg, water, salt, and pepper; stir well.
In a shallow dish, spread out the coconut.
Coat the chicken by first dipping it in the egg mixture, then in the coconut, pressing firmly to ensure it is well coated.
In a large non-stick frying pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
Add the chicken to the pan and cook it.

Variations

Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
Add some pineapple chunks to the coconut coating for an extra tropical flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness to ensure it cooks evenly.

- Press the coconut firmly onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.

- Use a non-stick frying pan to prevent the coconut from sticking.

- Cook the chicken over medium heat to ensure it cooks through without burning the coconut.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tropical Coconut Chicken with a side of rice and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the chicken in a combination of olive oil and butter gives it a crispy and flavorful crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use shredded almonds or breadcrumbs instead of coconut for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro or chopped peanuts for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Tropical Coconut Chicken with a fruity cocktail or a cold beer for a refreshing and tropical meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

7g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 20g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 12g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 2% of daily value per serving

- Iron: 6% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains coconut and egg

Summary

Tropical Coconut Chicken is a rich source of protein and healthy fats, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates. It also provides some vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and delicious meal option.

Summary

Tropical Coconut Chicken is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for those who love tropical flavors. With a crispy coconut crust and tender chicken inside, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory that I hold dear to my heart. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, that I first learned how to make Tropical Coconut Chicken.

I was visiting my Aunt Bessie in Hawaii for the summer, and she had invited me to help her prepare dinner one evening. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most amazing aroma of coconut and spices wafting through the air. Aunt Bessie was busily chopping vegetables and marinating chicken in a delicious concoction of coconut milk, ginger, and garlic.

I watched in awe as she expertly cooked the chicken on the grill, the tropical flavors sizzling and caramelizing on the meat. The sight and smell of the dish cooking was like nothing I had ever experienced before, and I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make it myself.

Aunt Bessie saw the look of wonder on my face and smiled knowingly. “Would you like to learn how to make Tropical Coconut Chicken, my dear?” she asked. My eyes lit up with excitement as I eagerly nodded my head.

And so, Aunt Bessie took me under her wing and taught me the secrets of making this delectable dish. She shared with me the importance of using fresh ingredients, the right balance of spices, and the patience required to let the flavors meld together to create a truly unforgettable meal.

As we sat down to enjoy our dinner that evening, I took my first bite of the Tropical Coconut Chicken and was transported to a tropical paradise. The tender chicken, marinated in coconut milk and spices, was bursting with flavor and the perfect balance of sweet and savory. It was a culinary experience unlike any other, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have made my own adaptations to Aunt Bessie’s original recipe, adding my own twist with the addition of pineapple and bell peppers for a burst of sweetness and color. I have shared this recipe with friends and family, who never fail to be impressed by the exotic flavors and unique combination of ingredients.

Every time I make Tropical Coconut Chicken, I am reminded of that special summer in Hawaii with Aunt Bessie, and how she passed down her love of cooking and her cherished recipes to me. It is a dish that brings back memories of warm summer nights, laughter around the dinner table, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

As I continue to cook and create in my own kitchen, I am grateful for the knowledge and skills that Aunt Bessie imparted to me all those years ago. And I know that every time I make Tropical Coconut Chicken, I am honoring her legacy and keeping her spirit alive through the art of cooking.