Tropical Flavor Explosion: Caribbean Coconut Fried Chicken Bao Buns!

If you’re looking to add a vibrant twist to your meal, look no further than these Caribbean Coconut Fried Chicken Bao Buns! Combining the juiciness of fried chicken with the fluffy goodness of bao buns and a tropical coconut flair, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for parties or cozy dinners, these buns are not just a feast for the stomach but also for the eyes. Let’s dive into this delightful culinary adventure!

Ingredients:

For the Coconut Fried Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

Oil, for frying

For the Bao Buns:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon instant yeast

2 tablespoons sugar

1/2 cup warm water

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Pinch of salt

For the Tropical Slaw:

1 cup green cabbage, shredded

1/2 cup carrots, shredded

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 tablespoon honey

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Start by marinating the chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 1 hour (or overnight for maximum flavor). This will keep the chicken juicy and tender.

In a shallow dish, mix together flour, shredded coconut, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Remove chicken from buttermilk and dredge in the coconut mixture, pressing to adhere. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let drain on paper towels.

In a large bowl, combine flour, instant yeast, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add warm water and oil, then mix until a dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

Divide the dough into small balls, then flatten them slightly. Steam the buns for about 10-12 minutes until fluffy and cooked through.

In a bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, red onion, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss until everything is well coated.

Slice the fried chicken and place it inside the steamed bao buns. Top with a generous helping of tropical slaw for that extra crunch and flavor.

Serve your Caribbean Coconut Fried Chicken Bao Buns warm and watch as everyone goes back for seconds!

Pro Tips for Perfect Bao Buns:

Steam Them Right: Ensure your steamer is hot before placing the buns inside to achieve that perfect fluffy texture.

Customize the Slaw: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like mango slices or avocado for an extra tropical twist!

Make it Ahead: You can prepare the coconut fried chicken and slaw ahead of time for a quicker assembly.

These Caribbean Coconut Fried Chicken Bao Buns are not just delicious; they’re also an exciting way to bring a taste of the tropics to your dining table. Don’t forget to snap a photo and share your creations on social media! Tag me, and let’s spread the love for these tasty bites!