Cornflake Chicken Tenders: Delicious 35 Min Meal

Cornflake Crusted Chicken Tenders have been a game-changer in my kitchen, especially on busy weeknights! I remember the first time I made this cornflake chicken recipe for my picky eaters, and the crunch was so satisfying, the whole family devoured them. The golden-brown coating and tender, juicy chicken are pure comfort food. It’s truly an easy cornflake chicken tenders recipe that delivers big on flavor and fun, making mealtime a breeze. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Cornflake Crusted Chicken Tenders

• An irresistible crunch that makes these crispy baked chicken tenders so satisfying.
• Incredibly quick prep time – you can have dinner on the table in about 35 minutes!
• A healthier alternative to fried chicken, as these are baked to golden perfection.
• Budget-friendly ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
• A huge hit with kids, making them a perfect family-friendly meal option.
• The delicious cornflake coating is a flavorful twist on classic chicken tenders.
• They’re wonderfully versatile – enjoy them as is or with your favorite dipping sauces.
• These crispy baked chicken tenders are a fantastic way to please everyone at the dinner table.

Ingredients for Cornflake Crusted Chicken Tenders

Gather these simple ingredients for wonderfully crunchy chicken tenders with a fantastic chicken tenders with cornflake coating:

• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour – this helps the egg mixture adhere.
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder – adds a savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon Paprika – gives a lovely color and mild flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt – essential for flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper – for a little zing.
• 2 Large Eggs – act as the binder for the coating.
• 2 tablespoons Pure Maple Syrup or Honey – mixed with the eggs for a hint of sweetness.
• 3 cups Cornflakes – crushed into fine crumbs for that signature crunch.
• 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Tenders – the star of the show, ensuring tender bites.
• 1 tablespoon Cooking Spray – for that extra crispy finish.
• 1/2 cup Honey Mustard – perfect for dipping!

How to Make Cornflake Crusted Chicken Tenders

Making these delicious tenders is a straightforward process, and I’m excited to guide you through it. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a fantastic meal in no time!

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is key to getting that perfect golden crisp. Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Step 2: Prepare your dredging stations. In one shallow bowl, whisk together the 1 cup All-Purpose Flour with 1 teaspoon Onion Powder, 1 teaspoon Paprika, 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt, and 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper. This seasoned flour mix is the first layer of flavor.
3. Step 3: In a second shallow bowl, whisk together the 2 Large Eggs with the 2 tablespoons Pure Maple Syrup or Honey. This slightly sweet egg wash helps the cornflakes adhere beautifully.
4. Step 4: Crush your cornflakes into fine crumbs. I like to use a zip-top bag and a rolling pin for this – it’s surprisingly satisfying! Place these fine crumbs into a third shallow bowl. This creates the signature crunch for how to make cornflake chicken tenders.
5. Step 5: Now for the fun part! Take each of your 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Tenders and dredge it first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press it firmly into the cornflake crumbs, making sure every surface is covered.
6. Step 6: Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overlapping, as this allows them to crisp up evenly. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking oil; this helps them achieve that beautiful golden-brown color as they bake.
7. Step 7: Bake for approximately 25 minutes. You’re looking for them to be golden brown and wonderfully crispy. The aroma filling your kitchen will tell you they’re almost ready! This is a crucial step in learning how to make cornflake chicken tenders that taste amazing.
8. Step 8: Once they’re perfectly cooked, remove them from the oven. Serve your hot, delicious Cornflake Crusted Chicken Tenders immediately with 1/2 cup Honey Mustard for dipping. Enjoy this simple yet incredibly satisfying meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Cornflake Crusted Chicken Tenders

I’ve made these tenders countless times, and these little tricks really elevate them. Follow these tips for the most delicious results!

• Crush your cornflakes finely for a better coating. I love using a food processor for this, or even a zip-top bag and a rolling pin.
• Don’t skip the egg wash and flour dredge! This three-step process is crucial for getting that perfectly adhered, crunchy coating.
• Baking spray or a light drizzle of oil on top helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color and extra crispiness.
• Let the coated tenders rest for a minute or two before baking; this helps the coating stick even better.

What’s the secret to perfect cornflake chicken tenders?

The real secret to achieving those amazing crunchy cornflake chicken tenders lies in the triple coating process and ensuring the cornflake crumbs are fine enough. Baking at a high temperature also guarantees that irresistible crispiness. For more on achieving the perfect crunch, you can check out Serious Eats’ guide to crispy chicken.

Can I make cornflake crusted chicken tenders ahead of time?

You can absolutely prepare the chicken tenders by coating them ahead of time. Place the coated, uncooked tenders on a baking sheet, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great tip from our author.

How do I avoid common mistakes with cornflake chicken tenders?

A common pitfall is having the coating fall off. Ensure you press the crumbs firmly onto the chicken after the flour and egg dips. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can lead to steaming rather than crisping. Understanding the science behind cooking can help prevent these issues; Food Network offers insights into cooking principles.

Best Ways to Serve Cornflake Crusted Chicken Tenders

These tenders are so versatile, and I love finding new ways to enjoy them! They’re fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right sides really makes the meal sing. For a classic combo, try serving them with a side of sweet potato fries or a crisp, refreshing coleslaw. If you’re wondering what to serve with cornflake chicken tenders, think about balancing the crunch with something creamy or tangy.

Another favorite of mine is a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette, which adds a nice freshness. You could also serve them alongside some baked beans or mac and cheese for a truly comforting, kid-friendly dinner that everyone will rave about. For more family-friendly meal ideas, you might find our privacy policy interesting, though it doesn’t directly relate to recipes.

Nutrition Facts for Cornflake Crusted Chicken Tenders

When you’re enjoying these delightful tenders, it’s helpful to know what you’re eating. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, so you can feel good about this delicious meal:

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 600 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information about nutritional data, you can visit the USDA FoodData Central.

How to Store and Reheat Cornflake Crusted Chicken Tenders

I’ve found that these tenders are just as delicious the next day, and knowing how to properly store and reheat them is key. Once they’ve cooled completely after baking, I usually place any leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep these tasty morsels for longer, you can absolutely freeze them. Wrap individual cooled tenders tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze them for up to 3 months. This method is great for ‘keeping cornflake chicken tenders crispy’ even after thawing.

When it’s time to reheat, I highly recommend avoiding the microwave if you want to preserve that coveted crunch. Instead, pop them back into a preheated oven at around 375°F (190°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again. An air fryer also works wonders for reheating! If you’re interested in learning more about the disclaimer for our recipes, feel free to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cornflake Crusted Chicken Tenders

Can I make these chicken tenders with a cornflake coating gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make delicious homemade cornflake chicken tenders gluten-free, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free cornflakes. The process remains the same, and you’ll get that fantastic crunch without the gluten.

What kind of cornflakes are best for this recipe?

For the best texture, I recommend using plain, unsweetened cornflakes. You’ll want to crush them into fine crumbs, as this creates a more uniform and crispy coating. Avoid sugary or flavored varieties, as they can burn during baking and overpower the chicken’s flavor.

How do I get the coating to stick really well?

The key to preventing the coating from falling off your homemade cornflake chicken tenders is the three-step dredging process: flour, egg wash, then crumbs. Make sure each piece of chicken is fully coated at each stage and press the cornflake crumbs firmly onto the chicken. Allowing the coated tenders to sit for a minute before baking also helps the coating adhere. You can learn more about our about me page for more cooking tips.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, this recipe is specifically designed for baking! Baking is a healthier alternative to frying and still yields wonderfully crispy results. The cooking spray or a light drizzle of oil before baking helps achieve that golden-brown, crunchy exterior that everyone loves.

Variations of Cornflake Crusted Chicken Tenders You Can Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting to find new ways to enjoy these tenders! They’re such a versatile base for an easy chicken dinner, and these variations are sure to please.

• Gluten-Free Delight: For those avoiding gluten, simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free cornflakes. The result is a delicious, crispy tender without the gluten!
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a little heat. This is perfect if you enjoy your chicken with a bit of a kick.
• Herbaceous Twist: Mix dried herbs like Italian seasoning, rosemary, or thyme into the cornflake crumbs for an aromatic and flavorful coating. It adds a lovely depth that complements the chicken beautifully.
• Air Fryer Magic: Want them even crispier? Try making these in an air fryer! Arrange the coated tenders in a single layer in your air fryer basket and cook at 380°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

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