Cornflake Chicken Tenders: A Crunchy and Delicious Recipe for the Whole Family

Cornflake Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on a classic favorite that brings a satisfying crunch to your dinner table. As a child, I remember the first time I tasted these crispy delights; the combination of tender chicken and the crispy cornflake coating was simply irresistible. This dish has roots in American cuisine, where the use of cornflakes as a breading has become a beloved method for achieving that perfect crunch. People adore Cornflake Chicken Tenders not just for their incredible taste and texture, but also for their convenience—making them a go-to option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether served with a side of dipping sauce or alongside your favorite vegetables, these tenders are sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of chicken tenders
• 2 cups of cornflakes, crushed
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1/4 cup of milk
• Cooking spray or oil for baking

Preparing the Chicken Tenders

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken tenders will cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture. 2. **Prepare the Chicken**: Rinse the chicken tenders under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the coating stick better. 3. **Set Up Your Breading Station**: I like to set up a simple breading station to make the process smoother. You’ll need three shallow bowls: – In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix it well to combine all the spices. – In the second bowl, crack the two large eggs and whisk them together with the milk until well combined. – In the third bowl, add the crushed cornflakes. You can crush them by placing them in a zip-top bag and using a rolling pin or your hands to break them down into smaller pieces.

Breading the Chicken Tenders

4. **Coat the Chicken**: Take one chicken tender and dip it into the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Shake off any excess flour. 5. **Dip in Egg Mixture**: Next, dip the floured chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. 6. **Coat with Cornflakes**: Finally, roll the chicken tender in the crushed cornflakes, pressing gently to ensure the flakes adhere well. Place the coated chicken tender on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders.

Cooking the Chicken Tenders

7. **Prepare for Baking**: Once all the chicken tenders are coated, lightly spray them with cooking spray or drizzle a little oil over them. This will help them achieve that golden-brown color and crispy texture. 8. **Bake the Chicken Tenders**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, I like to flip the tenders to ensure they cook evenly on both sides. You’ll know they’re done when they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). 9. **Optional Broil for Extra Crispiness**: If you want an extra crispy finish, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Assembling and Serving

10. **Let Them Rest**: Once the chicken tenders are out of the oven, let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps them moist. 11. **Serve with Dipping Sauces**: I love serving these cornflake chicken tenders with a variety of dipping sauces. Some of my favorites include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. You can set up a little dipping station for a fun presentation. 12. **Pair with Sides**: These chicken tenders are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. I often pair them with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or some crispy fries. You can also serve them in a wrap or on a bun for a delicious chicken sandwich.

Storing Leftovers

13. **Store Properly**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so good!), let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 14. **Reheating**: To reheat, I recommend placing them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness. You can also use an air fryer for a quick reheating option.

Tips for

Conclusion:

In summary, these Cornflake Chicken Tenders are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. The delightful crunch of the cornflakes combined with the juicy, tender chicken creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these crispy tenders with a zesty dipping sauce like honey mustard or barbecue sauce for an extra flavor kick. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding different spices to the cornflake coating or even experimenting with different types of chicken, such as thighs or tenders, to find your perfect combination. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you’re making them for a casual family dinner or a fun game day snack, I promise these Cornflake Chicken Tenders will be a hit! Don’t forget to let me know how they turn out and any variations you come up with. Happy cooking! Print